Literature & Writing   

Join us monthly for a lively discussion of the book and author of the month. With the exception of the first month, the group will decide which book we will read. The first book is: James by Percival Everett

This workshop is designed for those who enjoy writing short fiction or woulf like to try their hand at it. Led by published writers, each session will include a facilitated discussion of one or more of the critical ingredients of fiction writing along with the opportunity to share, review and discuss individual group members' writing. The workshop is based on the concept that feedback from peers can contribute to a writers' confidence and creativity. The goal is to build writing skills and help one another to strengthen things like story lines and character development.

If you enjoy writing and have a creative, bent our monthly meetings will inspire you to dig deeper. You will spend time with other writers, some published, some not, all whom, regardless of their level of experience, want to exchange ideas with other writers, and by doing so, improve their own craft.  As an example, we will work on character development, story content, writing convincing dialog and the importance of Show-don't tell. 
 

The goal of the class will be that students will learn and gain a working knowledge of the critical aspects of writing fiction. At the conclusion of the course, each student should have an understanding of how to craft a story. 

Student Learning Outcomes
•    The basic techniques and terminology of fiction writing
•    The basic elements of fiction writing
•    How to identify point of view in fiction and how to write from one specific point of view
•    How to craft a scene with evocative detail and tension
•    How to develop empathetic characters
•    How to identify plot in a story
•    How to tie all the above elements together into a cohesive structure 
•    Each student will complete one story of a minimum of 1000 words.
These outcomes will be achieved through the following work:
•    Critical examination of selected writing examples
•    Examination of student writings created from in class assignments
•    Lecture on various elements of fiction writing to include:
o    Plot
o    Character
o    Point of View
o    Scene/ Summary
o    Dialogue

Life's a rollercoaster, right? Have we ever stopped to think about all the lessons we've learned along the way? In this class, we're going to take a trip down memory lane, from our high school days and beyond, and look at the lessons we've learned that has brought us to where we are today.

So, are you ready to go back in time and write a note to your younger self? It is hoped this transformative experience will provide profound insights and personal enlightening.

Mortality is a subject many prefer to avoid, but Tolstoy’s powerful novella offers a rare opportunity to confront it with honesty and depth. Described as "one of the most lacerating works of literature ever written," The Death of Ivan Ilyich explores dying, denial, and the truths we often hide from ourselves and others.

This is a discussion-based class, not a lecture. Reading the book in advance is required. It’s widely available online, often for free or under $1.