Narrative structure comes naturally to some writers. Most of us have to work at it. The task is intrinsically daunting: taking the associative, multidimensional array of information that lives in one's mind (research, memory, thinking) and arranging it in linear form for readers. The difficulty compounds with length, making book projects especially challenging. Yet the rewards are plentiful. A sound structure not only draws people in and keeps them engaged but gives one latitude for wider expression, whether exploring big ideas or smuggling in tangential material. This workshop will engage with a range of nonfiction texts, from memoir to investigations, to highlight successful narrative techniques: crafting openings and endings, maintaining momentum, withholding and revealing detail. It will explore the mutualistic relationship between structure and research—how having a sense of direction can streamline the gathering phase, and in turn how this can lighten the work of structure. Besides focusing on craft, there will be targeted critique of student work and some opportunities for workshopping; these will focus on outlines and key sections of text, not full manuscripts. All nonfiction writers working on books, or hoping to, are welcome!
Prerequisites: Intermediate/Advanced Nonfiction Workshop and/or permission of the instructor. To apply, please email a writing sample (three to five pages) and a brief description of your workshop history to [email protected].
Note: Registration and applications for this class will not open until July 22.
