Creative Nonfiction

Creative nonfiction is an expansive mode of inquiry that integrates personal narrative with critical reflection. In this course, we’ll read and discuss a range of nonfiction essays by contemporary writers, including Jo Ann Beard, Hanif Abdurraqib, Tressie McMillan Cottom, and Cathy Park Hong, among others. We’ll study how these writers examine the self and the world around them in order to cultivate personal insight or a deeper understanding of society. These works will inform our study of craft elements and provide a prompt for your own writing. You’ll work to cultivate a foundational writing practice through generative writing exercises, drafting, revision, and critical engagement with one another’s work. No writing experience is necessary, but you must be willing to participate, take risks, and attend to the work of your peers with care.
Registering at least three weeks prior to the course start date is highly recommended.
This course may be used to fulfill the requirements of the Certificate in Storytelling. It may be taken to pursue the certificate, or as a standalone course. 

Questions? Contact us at The Center for Publishing, Writing, and Media. Email us at sps.pwm.ce@nyu.edu or call 212-998-7289.  
Continuing Education Units (CEU) : 2.5

You'll walk away with

• An understanding of contemporary creative nonfiction
• Foundational writing skills, including brainstorming, drafting, and revision
• A final project that explores how personal narrative can shed light on society and culture

Ideal for

• The curious and creative
• Writers of all levels