Thursdays, April 10th - May 15th |"Minor artists imitate, great artists steal,” T.S. Eliot once said. In this class, we’ll study the stories of James Baldwin, Carmen Maria Machado, and other writers with an eye not toward plagiarism but to gaining insight and inspiration for your own work. Each week we’ll discuss and deepen our understanding of a core element in fiction—including patterns of imagery, characterization, and plot—as exemplified by a diverse group of authors who have made a significant contribution to literature. Brief fiction exercises are offered to get you writing, and constructive feedback is given in a supportive environment. My twin goals are for you to leave with stronger skills in close reading and with new material for a story or novel. Both beginning and more advanced writers welcome.
"I've taken many writing classes over the years. One that stands out is the "Great Writers Steal:How the Work of Other Writers Can Inform and Inspire You” class taught by Laurie Ann Doyle. It's so clear that Laurie's focus is to make this class an engaging and generative experience for her students through her unique assignments--I came away with at least two solid story ideas and a way to develop future prompts through close reading." - Rowena Leong Singer
"Laurie's teaching was indispensable in my development as a writer. She taught me how to effectively self-edit, how to find freedom within constraints, and how to prepare my work for publication. I published several short stories because of her! Laurie's classes should not be missed" - Dominic Lim, author of All the Right Notes and Karaoke Queen