Using excerpts from the Art of Memoir by Mary Karr, The Situation and the Story by Vivian Gornick, and other writers, we'll examine the importance of overarching conflict in the memoir genre, its connection to theme, and explore ways to locate the forces that drive our protagonists and the internal and external conflicts that propel our stories.
We will focus on the following questions: What is the inciting incident, or a key event that sets your story in motion? How can you identify a turning point, with emotional stakes for the protagonist? What does your protagonist learn by going on this journey of discovery, and how might you, as the writer, keep your reader engaged?
---
Details: Finding Emotional Stakes in Memoir takes place Tuesday, August 8 from 6:00-9:00pm remotely online via Zoom.
Prerequisites: None
Genre: Nonfiction/memoir
Level: Emerging/Intermediate
Format: Craft and generative workshop
Location: This class takes place remotely online via Zoom.
Size: Limited to 12 participants (including scholarships).
Suggested Sequence: Follow this class with an intermediate or advanced level memoir, nonfiction, or essay writing course.
Scholarships: Two scholarship spots are available for this class for writers in Northeast Ohio. Apply by April 24.
Cancellations & Refunds: Cancel at least 48 hours in advance of the first class meeting to receive a full refund. Email info@litcleveland.org.
Work with the best...
Judah Leblang is a storyteller, memoirist and writing teacher. His essays and commentaries have been broadcast throughout the US on more than 150 NPR and ABC-network radio stations, as well as several Canadian stations. He is a regular columnist for Bay Windows, Boston’s gay newspaper, and an instructor at Grub Street. He is the author of two memoirs: Finding My Place (2013) and Echoes of Jerry (2019).
This class takes place remotely online via Zoom
Cleveland, OH
Related Classes
Scene and Being Seen in Memoir and Creative Nonfiction (FULL)
Keep Moving: 5 Essays in 6 Weeks (FULL)
