What does it mean to tell the story of a body that has been misunderstood, dismissed, or translated through the language of medicine? In this eight-week workshop, writers living with chronic illness and/or disability will work to reclaim this specific life experiences in their own words—on their own terms. We'll focus on deepening and developing personal essays, short stories, or longer works-in-progress, with an emphasis on shaping narrative, refining voice, and sustaining momentum toward completion. Through close reading, discussion, and supportive feedback, we’ll explore how specificity—writing from deep within a lived experience—can illuminate the universal. Participants will have the opportunity to have their work discussed twice, up to 3000 words each time, with written feedback from classmates and the instructor. All genres and levels are welcome.
Please note: This class will skip meeting the week of November 23.
This course is part of our Writing for Wellness program, which focuses on the relationship between the creative act of writing and wellbeing. While we may look at craft during these programs, our focus will be on writing that supports ourselves as human beings.
