Online Level 1 Intro to Fiction and Poetry

Our Online Level I workshop introduces students to the philosophical foundations on which The Writers Studio was established in 1987 by Pulitzer Prize-winning poet Philip Schultz. Persona writing, a distinctive method of adopting the voice and temperament of accomplished published authors, provides writers with the necessary imaginative distance and fresh perspective to overcome self-doubt, fear of exposure, and creative blocks. By temporarily inhabiting different literary voices and personas, writers develop narrative and lyric techniques they can use as tools for uncovering their deepest, most private stories and transforming difficult subject matter into powerful fiction, poetry, and creative non-fiction.

Throughout the course, weekly writing assignments based on published literary excerpts introduce students to diverse literary styles, techniques, and approaches, significantly expanding their creative possibilities. As students deepen their understanding of literary craft, the clarity and emotional resonance of their writing naturally increase. The instructors provide thorough written critiques of each student's work weekly, and students learn to give thoughtful, constructive feedback to one another, a level of detailed attention that is rare in most writing programs. Additionally, your instructor leads weekly one-hour discussions of literary technique and writing craft via Google Meet or Zoom, as specified for your class.

Technical Requirements: All you need is a computer or tablet with a reliable internet connection. After you register, a link to our online classroom will be emailed to you, and technical support is available throughout the duration of your class.