Writing from Memory: Fiction and Memoir

Description

Memory is elusive, elective, slippery. So are the genres of writing called "memoir" and "fiction." Why do we remember what we do? Who do we remember it for? What is our obligation to the 'truth'? In this class we will explore these questions as we generate and revise our own auto- and biographical and fictional texts. Our discussions will be guided by our reading of brief excerpts (handouts provided by  instructor) of various published texts. Much of the class will be spent reading out loud and discussing our own work.  In-class and homework writing assignments will spur new work. Each student will produce a small portfolio of new work. Please come to class with pen and paper and ready to read and write.