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 craft seminar 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 seminar will include a balance of lecture and discussion; participants will come away with a set of new craft tools, several writing exercises, and a diverse reading list of exemplary essays to inspire their own work going forward.
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Join us July 26-27 for Short Form Fest, a weekend celebration of short stories, essays, flash prose, and prose poetry. To explore craft seminars and events, purchase passes, and learn more about the festival, click here.
