Fundamentals of Creative Writing (LIT2527.01) (time updated as of 10/17/2023)

Sandra Simonds

What makes a poem a poem as opposed to a piece of fiction or an essay? Does every essay have to “tell the truth”? What about fiction that is purely autobiographical? This class will look at the various genres of creative writing and think about how, where, and why we draw lines between these modes. We will begin by studying the basic elements of poetry (line, image, stanza), move to lyric essay and consider the elements of fiction (setting, plot, character, theme). Students should be prepared to engage in creative writing activities both inside and outside of the classroom. They will also be expected to share their writing with their classmates in a workshop setting and provide constructive feedback. Writing assignments may include surrealist poetry experiments, constructing texts from found materials, creating multimedia digital textual designs, experiments with hybridity, linguistic sculptures / art objects and performance pieces. At the end of the term, students will organize a reading of their work.


Learning Outcomes:
*Analyze literary genres through the study of contemporary texts.
*Create meaningful, well-written pieces of writing in multiple genres.
*Incorporate feedback from peers to engage in the revision process.
*Critically engage with peers’ creative writing to provide constructive feedback.
*Work collaboratively with classroom community by organizing a public literary event.



Delivery Method: Fully in-person
Course Level: 2000-level
Credits: 4
Click here for course meeting days/times. (Full-term)
Maximum Enrollment: 25
Course Frequency: One time only

Categories: 2000 , All courses , Day/Time Changes , Four Credit , Fully In-Person , Literature , Updates
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