Let’s face it. Writing from the first person is a heck of a lot of fun. Akin to the dramatic monologue, to stand-up comedy, to one-person shows (monodramas), it can lead writers into markets they might not have considered.

The ”I” sees all. Learning to write from this point of view is not just a matter of using a given pronoun. In this seminar, you will learn how to: choose your revelatory character; manipulate the distances the “I” creates between the main character and the surrounding entourage of characters; create suspense and red herrings for your reader; explore the depth and nuance of a character; create more effortlessly humor, irony, crazy political and religious positions; and slip into a character’s skin and enjoy his or her flamboyant or outrageous life.

Writing from the first person POV has advantages. Writers can connect more immediately with an audience, “stay in character” more easily, and thoroughly explore a character with nuance and depth. The Bell Jar and The Handmaids Tale demonstrate the power of this point of view. It is an automatic choice for the memoirist, obviously, but it requires a dexterous combination of skills to create a successful first person story or novel.

Please note: This class or event is hybrid. Some attendees will be in-person and some will attend online. There may be a limited number of in-person seats available. If you are participating online (using Zoom or a similar live platform), students or attendees should have a stable internet connection. Class participants: you should have a computer or device with a webcam and microphone; and your Zoom link will be automatically sent to you after you register. Check your spam box if you don't see it.