Creative Nonfiction
Confession, reflection, revision. If you write about it, it hurts less. It takes time, but the more you write, the less you bury inside, and the freer you will be.
Memoir is a delicate genre, but when approached with an attitude of self-exploration and healing, it can be the most transformational piece of writing you will ever create.
My series of creative nonfiction originated with a personal essay, grew into a memoir essay, crossed over to digital nonfiction, and resulted in a 501(c)3 Nonprofit and a small, local movement to build confidence and willingness to face discomfort for the sake of growth.
These creative nonfiction projects illustrate mastery of the following UALR Professional and Technical Writing Master of Arts program outcomes:
Analyzing a variety of rhetorical situations - Each of these projects required careful consideration of intended audience to create stories that were interesting, memorable, and impactful. This is especially true because each of these projects is not only an extension of the project that came before it, but also targets a unique audience for specific purposes. The lyric essay was written in response to an assignment reflecting an artifact. Having chosen to use the dress as the artifact, my intended audience was primarily those interested in fashion and the history of it. The essay is written for the general public and is a personal story of childhood trauma, self-exploration, and healing, which is applicable to all. The digital nonfiction piece was an act of answerability, and its purpose was to entertain. At the height of the COVID-19 pandemic, I wanted this story to be light-hearted and provide an escape from the stress we were all experiencing. It targeted a predominantly female audience.
Exploring and experimenting with technologies - Digital nonfiction was arguably the most challenging of all the courses I completed. One of the goals of the course was specifically to experiment with several programs while creating. These technologies were new to me, and each program worked differently and featured a variety of tools with which I was not familiar. The experience gave me a solid foundation in elements of nonlinear storytelling and the use of technology to achieve an experience that appeals to as many senses as possible. I applied visual design knowledge from a prior course to the use of video editors, web development tools, basic coding, and audio tools to create an interactive experience that was fun and uplifting. Between digital nonfiction and document design, I found a fascination with digital technology and a curiosity about everything I have left to learn.
Participating in profession outside of the classroom - Two of these projects have been submitted for publication or awards. The lyric essay has been submitted more than 30 literary magazines. It has not yet been accepted, but I continue to submit it. The essay received a writing award from UALR in the creative nonfiction category, and I am currently expanding the essay into a full memoir. I plan to begin querying by the end of 2023.