How do we write beyond what happened and into the beating heart of a story? How do we create literary art from everyday life while telling the truth — but without becoming smarmy? In this session, we’ll explore craft techniques to enliven your prose, deepen your stories, and create connection with readers.
Topics will include understanding the two essential building blocks of CNF; using imagery and metaphor to create meaning; and choosing and slanting details to create texture and depth. This session will benefit any writer seeking to move beyond “just the facts” without tipping over into a “sentimental journey.”
Based on a workshop Jenna’s been giving since 2013, this session addresses how newer CNF writers often fall into one of two traps: only recording what happened, or only sharing what they thought and felt. But great CNF combines these two aspects to create art from life. Learning to do this in her own work drastically improved Jenna’s writing. She sees students “level up” all the time when they learn these techniques.
Note: Pre-conference intensive workshops are optional add-ons and require separate registration — $60. Workshops run for three hours with a 15-minute snack break included (coffee, tea, fruit, etc.)