Saturdays, May 13th and 20th 12-3 PM Central, Virtual
why braiding paradox?
We are always weaving between memory and presence, fact and fiction, sensation and logic, thought and dream. Our stories are woven, too – an amalgamation of paradox, contradictions, and possibilities. Our stories are never one thing, and neither are we.
In this two-part class, we will explore the craft of braided essays as a way to render potent narratives that defy the single story and embrace the complexity of truth.
In the first class, we’ll study braided essays by authors who model the weaving of divergent narratives into a story that is far more than the sum of its parts. You’ll leave with an assignment to play with throughout the week.
In the second class, we’ll share excerpts from our braided essays aloud, drawing ideas and on the spot insights from Arya and other participants. You can expect to walk away inspired by the power of braided narratives, the beginnings of a new essay, and concrete tools and abundant inspiration for how to continue the weaving beyond our class.
what kind of writer should take this course?
This class is for writers who have been trying to tell a complex story that contradicts itself, brings together disparate parts, and can only be told through embracing paradox. But this class is also welcome to anyone who has curiosity about braided essays, wants to apprentice with the writings of masterful authors, and is ready to summon the courage to take risks alongside brave, compassionate writers.
what are the requirements?
A strong internet connection and comfort navigating an online learning platform.
how does this remote class work?
This course takes place on Elephant Rock’s course platform Mighty Networks. Our course has a designated course page with course materials, a private group chat, and an events tab where the workshop itself runs as a Zoom meeting.
Writers will be sent readings ahead of the first class, during which we’ll discuss writing the readings in depth and generate the beginnings of our own braided narratives. You will also be given a brief assignment to try over the coming week.
During the second class, we will share our works in progress, encourage each other, and explore how to continue the weaving beyond class. You’ll receive live “on the spot” feedback from Arya and the rest of the group to help you locate the moments of resonance and opportunities for expanding your story beyond class.
what will writers take away?
The start of a new essay
Deepened understanding of braided essays as a literary craft
“Apprenticeship” with published authors whose essays can inspire and guide us
Portals and processes to access new wellsprings of narrative
A supportive community of fellow writers with whom you will co-create
Brief individualized discussion of your work
Guidance from a seasoned instructor and reflections on your writing
who is the teacher?
This course is led Arya Samuelson, the winner of the CutBank’s Montana Prize in Non-Fiction awarded by Cheryl Strayed. Her work has also been published in Bellevue Literary Review, Columbia Journal, New Delta Review, Entropy, The Millions, The Manifest-Station, and elsewhere. She is a proud graduate of the MFA in Creative Writing Program from Mills College and has been studying at Lidia Yuknavitch’s school of Corporeal Writing since 2017. She teaches with LitReactor, Pioneer Valley Writers Workshop, Writers in Progress, and through her own teaching series, Writing as Ritual. Arya writes across all genres and is currently working on a novel. Her website is www.aryasamuelson.com.
what is the cost?
Elephant Rock tuition for this two-part class is $179 (nonrefundable). Under normal circumstances, full payment is due at least 15 days before the workshop begins. Extended payment plans may be available in cases of severe economic hardship. Please send an email to Elephant Rock to inquire.
from past attendees:
“I’m so glad I signed up for your phenomenal braided essay class! The people were so lovely and their writing was just wow! I’m super excited about the stuff that emerged for me and I hope to continue using such brilliant techniques.”
“This braided essay experience healed me in several ways: The writing is raw which helps me get down to discover that a particular ‘truth’ is often braids of conflicting sub-truths. My perspective shifts from feeling like a victim to feeling like a badass. I recognize how strong, or at least, how clear, I am.”
how do I sign up?
please click below to complete course registration and payment: