What makes an essay an essay? Writers (and writing teachers) are often quick to point out that the form derives its name from the French verb essayer, “to try.” But what are essayists trying to do, exactly? And by what means? This generative eight-week course will serve as an overview of the constraints and possibilities that set the essay genre apart within creative nonfiction, with a particular focus on choosing essay-worthy topics and developing vibrant, complex central questions; the interplay of incongruity and synthesis, narration and analysis across an essay’s structure; and what it means to hone an honest, companionable, “essayistic” voice. The class will include a balance of lecture and discussion, with some in-class writing and the opportunity for first-blush feedback from the instructor; participants will come away with a set of new craft tools, writing exercises, and a diverse reading list of exemplary essays to inspire their own work going forward.
Note: Registration and applications for this class will not open until July 22.
