Writing for/as the Other

Class Description

In today’s shifting literary landscape, we are starting to think more critically about the ethics of literary representation, the cultural relevance of audience, and how we can undo the toxic, one-dimensional narratives that have persisted about underrepresented and marginalized communities. Underlying these necessary efforts is a desire to create more nuanced, thoughtful, and emotionally complex stories about the people who occupy an “othered” space in society. But how exactly does a writer or poet go about that? How do we avoid negative appropriation or the perpetuation of stereotype in our work? How can we use our craft to expand the critique of marginalization and othering in our world?

This one day seminar will unpack these questions by examining the roles identity, culture, and historical memory play in our literary imagination. The initial portion of class will involve a craft lecture calling upon the work of authors such as Paisley Rekdal, Claudia Rankine, and Zadie Smith, while the rest will center writing exercises and discussions for students to participate in and consider their own identity within the work they produce.

This course caters to and welcomes writers and poets of any level, but is only intended for those who are serious about approaching the subjects we will cover with as much compassion, accountability, and openness as possible.

Class Format

This class will take place in-person at our Center for Creative Writing in Boston's Seaport neighborhood.

Covid-19 Update:

GrubStreet's space will be mask optional when Boston's Covid-19 Community Level is low or medium. When the Covid-19 Community Level is high, our space will require masks. Please check GrubStreet's Covid-19 page for the latest info on masking and Community Levels before visiting in-person.

Scholarship Information

Thanks to the excellent literary citizenship of our donors, scholarships are available for all GrubStreet classes. To apply, click the gray "APPLY FOR SCHOLARSHIP" button. In order to be considered for a scholarship, you must complete your application at least one week before the start date of a class. Please await our scholarship committee's decision before registering for the class. We cannot hold spots in classes, so the sooner you apply, the better. Scholarships cannot be applied retroactively.

For more more detailed information about GrubStreet scholarships, including how to contribute to scholarship funds for other students, click here.