Imagination is bound up with memory, Toni Morrison said. If you’ve started writing memoir or memoir-based fiction, if you’re wondering how to imagine your story, or you’re stuck, this course with Barbara Brooks will help you. You’ll begin by finding how to translate memories into words, images and scenes, then explore ways to ground your writing in time and place, and to shape your story. You’ll learn how to use the techniques of fiction to tell life stories.

There will be presentations on the writing process and writing craft, but the course will focus equally on your writing and your participation, with writing exercises in class, thoughtful discussion of literary texts, and guided discussion of your writing. This course will help you to get started, develop your writing, and inspire and sustain your writing practice.

Memoir and Memories: Week-by-week course outline

Week 1: Understanding the writing process, memoir and memories

Week 2: Putting memories on paper: locating your memories in time and place

Week 3: What’s the story? Shaping your memories, using the techniques of fiction

Week 4: Who’s telling the story: finding your voice and using other voices

Week 5: Developing a writing practice: strategies for continuing and sustaining your practice

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Expected Learning Outcomes

1. Develop craft skills required to produce memoir or memoir-based fiction writing
2. Learn ways to develop and sustain a writing practice
3. Gain insight into the possibilities and challenges of memoir and memoir-based fiction

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Participant Requirements

Pen and paper or preferred device for writing. Please ensure your device is charged.