Promptpalooza

In this class, we’ll work with an abundance of creative writing prompts. With a focus on wordplay, writers will move through a series of fantastic catalysts at a semi-rapid pace in a lighthearted atmosphere. I’ll present curiosities and poignant vignettes to inspire you and help get words on paper. Using all five senses, we’ll go on a little scavenger hunt, plugging into lyric and rhythm. This class works for both beginning and more practiced writers. Saturday, February 9, 9:30AM-1:30pm, $20, Clatsop Community College, Astoria, OR

Reading for Writers: Poetry

Writers read. A lot. In this half-day class, students will read (and watch) a quantity of poems from emerging writers and masters alike–new voices and poets who you may not have read before. We’ll talk about the quest for exact and unique expression, be a little awestruck by their mastery, and enjoy the power of a well-made poem. Poets and prose writers are encouraged. We’ll talk about the craft of writing as a practice, but students do not have to be writers themselves. All you need is a fondness for words. Saturday, February 23, 9:30AM-1:30PM, $20, Clatsop Community College, Astoria, OR

Spelling Bee for Grown-ups

It’s just what it sounds like, a spelling competition for adults. Buff up your vocabularies and dazzle others with all the words you’ve learned since fifth grade. Far less embarrassing than middle school, this time we promise everyone will have fun. Promise. P-R-O-M-I-S-E. Promise. Saturday, March 9, 2:00PM-5:00PM, $20, Clatsop Community College, Astoria, OR

The Extremely Short Story

Flash fiction is generally 1000 words or less. This itty-bitty sub-genre of literature is growing in popularity and publication. Students will read some compelling examples of short prose, and we’ll try writing a few pieces of flash fiction ourselves. Composing flash is a great way for writers who are working on longer projects, like a memoir or a poetry collection, to sharpen their creative writing skills overall. Writers of all experience (or none) are welcome. Saturday, March 9, 9:30AM-1:30PM, $20 Clatsop Community College, Astoria, OR

To register for classes held at Clatsop Community College, call 503-338-2411.