Read It, Write It

A course for those who want to understand the “how” of writing fiction and memoir. We will experiment with our writing in a non-threatening supportive environment. We will discuss how narrative gets made through a study of fiction, short-stories read for themselves as works of art but more specifically to understand how, as John Gardner notes, “Fiction does its work by creating a dream in the reader’s mind.” 

The course will examine the complex work that creates this dream, analyzing the techniques that can be learned if we are writing and, if understood, make us more astute readers.

Those who are writing or would like to begin will be offered, in-class, getting-started experiments: a chance to try your hand at writing. Others may choose solely to enjoy the close analysis—from a writer’s point of view—of some of our best American stories. Both kinds of students are encouraged to join us.

A leader in educating artists, designers, and scholars since 1866, the School of the Art Institute of Chicago (SAIC) offers nationally accredited degree programs as well as Continuing Studies programs for adults and children, ages 4-18. Considered one of the most influential art and design schools in the world, SAIC has continuing studies programs available to all skill levels. Students develop their creative and critical abilities while working with renowned faculty, utilizing state-of-the-art resources, and visiting the breath-taking galleries at the Art Institute of Chicago.