COM 215 - Creative Nonfiction

3 Credit Hours

Creative nonfiction, popularly referred to as “the fourth genre,” is narrative rooted in truth - in “real” life. While poetry, fiction and drama are forms that allow their writers to control plot and create characters, creative nonfiction writers must invent only form and style, not circumstance. This course is an introduction to reading and writing creative nonfiction. Students will examine the elements of effective nonfiction prose by reading contemporary models: personal essays, biographical sketches, short pieces of literary journalism and memoir. Students will develop their own nonfiction prose by consistently writing and revising, receiving ongoing written feedback from the instructor, and participating in class discussions, weekly writing workshops, and conferences. Students will enhance research skills by creatively integrating primary and secondary sources into their narratives.

Prerequisite(s): COM 121 or COM 122

Semesters Offered: Fall/Spring/Online