This one-day class is open to writers of all prose genres, including fiction, nonfiction, and anything in-between. This class is for writers currently working on an essay, a story, a book, and struggling to figure out their opening — as well as for writers trying to find a gateway into a new story. Our apprentice texts for the class will include both novels and memoirs.
How does this remote class work?
This class will take place on Zoom on Sunday, January 25 from 1-4pm ET. Writers will be sent readings one week ahead of class. The class will be recorded and shared exclusively with participants.
How many people will be in this class?
This class is limited to 10 people to allow for an intimate and generative space.
What kind of feedback will I receive?
As a purely generative class, there will not be any formal workshopping. However, there will be ample opportunities to share your writing aloud and receive on-the-spot feedback from other classmates and from Arya. The feedback will be oriented around helping each author to locate the moments of greatest heat, impact, possibility, and to consider opportunities for expansion.
What will writers take away?
- Guided exercises and generative prompts for experimenting with new beginnings (including first lines and opening pages)
- A deeper understanding of the “story beneath the story” and the core themes, questions, and images of your project
- New material that offers unexpected entry points into a current or new project
- A supportive community of fellow writers and an abundance of generative feedback
Who is the teacher?
Arya Samuelson is a writer, editor, and educator. She is the winner of New Ohio Review’s Non-Fiction Prize, Lascaux Review’s Nonfiction Prize, and CutBank’s Montana Prize in Non-Fiction awarded by Cheryl Strayed. Her work has also been published in Fourth Genre, Bellevue Literary Review, Columbia Journal, New Delta Review, The Manifest-Station, and elsewhere. She has worked with literary organizations across thr country and loves working with writers 1:1 and collectively to unearth the deeper story and transform it into art. Find out more about Arya here.
What is the cost?
The cost for this class is $125. However, recognizing that writers' access to financial resources exists across a wide spectrum, this class is being offered on a sliding scale between $100-$150. If severe economic hardship prevents you from accessing the lowest sliding scale, please send an email to Arya to inquire about the possibility of a scholarship.
Tuition is refundable up to 2 weeks before the class start date. Up to 7 days before class, tuition may be transferrable to a future class or service with Arya. After September 7, tuition will be non-refundable or transferrable.
I’m ready! How do I register?
Payment is processed via Stripe and accepts all major credit cards, PayPal, and other payment options. If you have any questions about class before deciding, or any difficulties with registration, please email Arya.
