Memoir in Progress

Class Description

This course is designed for students who are actively engaged in writing a memoir. We will study key elements of craft including, but not limited to, creating narrative drive and tension, writing scenes vs. exposition, integrating research, developing character, dealing with "truth" and memory. The class will pay close attention to structure; we’ll consider several classic and not-so-classic structures. Each week, we will workshop student manuscripts, discuss craft topics, and analyze exemplary memoirs and personal essays. Students will have 3-4 opportunities to share their work in class.

In addition, each student is expected to develop a solid outline of the memoir in progress, and can submit up to 20 pages of their manuscript during the course for instructor feedback. By the end of the course, in addition to workshopped material, students will leave with a greater understanding of how to develop an engaging, well-written memoir.

Please come to the first class with a copy of "an elevator pitch" for your memoir (a compelling title and 150-word blurb that summarizes and encapsulates your work) or the first page of your manuscript.

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.