Writing Compelling Non-Fiction

Course Description:

During the course, we will consider some examples of creative non-fiction, particularly in Stegner’s Wolf Willow, and in some of the course leader’s published work, ie. The Black Grizzly of Whiskey Creek. By the end of the course, we hope that each person will have completed, or made progress on a new project, or on a work already in progress with a view to eventual publication. The range of possibilities depends on the participants and could include the personal essay, opinion piece, memoir, a chapter from a book or a humour piece. Each day, we will take turns reading our work to the group and participating in discussions, offering constructive comments on what is read. By the end of the course, participants, will:

A. Understand the concept of narrative or creative non-fiction.

B. Be familiar with the methodology of non-fiction writing, as it pertains to
1). research and interviewing subjects, 2). fact checking, 3). quoting and permissions to quote; 4). legal issues, ie. libel, 5). the role of the professional editor. 6). writing a story and/or book proposal

C. Be conversant with some of the creative methods literary non-fiction writers employ. The topics we will employ will include:
1) the use of dialogue to move the story forward; 2) point of view and the author as a character in the story 3).tone and narrative stance 4). poetic language and prose style 5). using quotes from subjects and documents to move a story along and/or using paraphrases 6). finding a thematic impetus to drive the story

Course Preparation:

Participants are encouraged to read Wallace Stegner’s classic Wolf Willow, which will be referred to during our week. If you have a chance to read one of my own books, it will help you to understand my approach to this genre. Aside from your usual writing materials and reference texts, a laptop computer, though not mandatory, would be an asset, since we can share files easily and avoid wasting paper.

Course Cost: *
Registration before April 30^th: $775
Registration after April 30^th: $875
* includes admission to all Conference events, readings and panel discussions