Description
Eight Mondays, Sep 30-Nov 25 (no meeting on October 14), 6-8pm
Open to all
Limited to 12 participants
Hybrid Workshop*
Have you ever wanted to see your words on the pages of your favourite newspaper, magazine, or website? The personal essay is a subgenre of creative nonfiction that focuses on unique stories with universal appeal told from a first-person perspective. In this 8-week course, you’ll learn everything from how to generate ideas to how to structure your first and second drafts to how to pitch your completed piece.
The course will consist of teacher-led instruction, at-home readings, generative in-class writing exercises, and guided peer feedback. You will also be expected to work on your essay at home, between classes. By the end of this session, you will have one completed personal essay.
Week 1: What is the personal essay?
Overview of the genre and generating ideas.
Week 2: Structure
Defining the elements of the personal essay and exploring structure.
Week 3: First Drafts, Part I
Getting words on the page.
Week 4: First Drafts, Part II
Employing techniques from creative writing.
Week 5: Revision
A step-by-step guide for revising your own work.
Week 6: Second Drafts
How to polish your essay and turn it into something publishable.
Week 7: Pitching and Publishing
How to find target outlets and write a great pitch.
Week 8: Ask-Me-Anything with a Working Editor
Guest Editor (TBA) and wrap-up.
*This workshop will take place at the QWF Office (Room 3, 1200 Atwater Avenue, Westmount, Quebec) with up to 2 virtual spots for participants who are unable to attend in-person because of distance or disability. By default, all workshop registrations are for in-person spots. If you can’t attend in person and would like to request a virtual slot, contact Riley at riley@qwf.org and wait for confirmation before registering. Please do not register until after you receive confirmation that there is a virtual spot for you.
