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Ariel Levy
If you have always wanted to tell your own story—in a memoir, first-person essay, or any other form of autobiographical non-fiction—but felt you lacked the tools or the framework, this is the class for you. We will learn how successful first-person writing is structured to offer the reader a sense of propulsive motion, and is guided by a narrator who is deliberately crafted. We will explore the ways in which language can be used to create tone, so that the emotional freight of your words is as potent as the storytelling. And crucially, we will consider the writer's responsibility to the reader: the importance of being a guide who includes the reader in the sensory, emotional, and intellectual experience you mean to share through your writing.
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What's inside
Syllabus
Developing a Narrator in First Person Writing
The Journey
Finding Your Voice
Read more
Syllabus
Developing a Narrator in First Person Writing
The Journey
Finding Your Voice
Read more
Traffic lights
Traffic lights
Read about what's good
what should give you pause and
possible dealbreakers
Is intended for learners who are interested in writing memoirs, first-person essays, or other forms of autobiographical non-fiction
Helps learners develop a strong narrative voice and structure for their writing
Provides guidance on using language to create tone and convey emotion
Covers key aspects of autobiographical writing, such as developing a narrator, finding one's voice, and determining the purpose of the writing
Is taught by an experienced instructor who has published works in the field
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Reviews summary
First person writing: conceptual guide for beginners
According to learners, this course on writing in first person point of view is largely positive, particularly appreciated by beginners or those seeking foundational guidance. Students praised the clear structure and engaging lectures that helped them develop a narrator voice and understand the writer's responsibility. Many felt it provided the confidence and tools needed to start writing their story. However, some more experienced writers found the content too basic and the assignments occasionally abstract, wishing for more concrete techniques or feedback. Overall, it is seen as strong for conceptual understanding rather than advanced prose crafting.
Exercises are helpful but some wanted more feedback.
"The exercises were challenging but incredibly helpful."
"The assignments were vague and feedback was minimal."
"My only minor critique is that I wish there was more opportunity for peer feedback on assignments."
Lectures are engaging and easy to follow.
"Highly engaging lectures."
"Clear lectures and practical advice."
"The lectures are engaging and easy to follow."
"The instructor is clearly an expert and passionate about the subject."
Focuses on the core ideas behind first-person writing.
"It really breaks down the craft of writing memoir. I loved the focus on developing a distinct narrator voice and understanding my responsibility..."
"The instructor's insights on tone and structure were valuable."
"It wasn't focused on grammar or style rules, but rather the conceptual framework, which is valuable."
Highly recommended for those starting out.
"Perfect course for beginners. It gently guides you through the process of thinking about your story and how to tell it effectively."
"This course gave me the confidence and tools I needed to start writing my memoir."
"Probably better for complete beginners."
Experienced writers may find it too basic.
"Too basic for experienced writers..."
"A waste of time. The course content was very basic and didn't offer any new insights for someone with prior writing experience."
"...if you've already done some writing, it might be a bit repetitive."
Activities
Be better prepared
before
your course. Deepen your understanding
during
and
after
it. Supplement your coursework and achieve mastery of the topics covered
in Writing in First Person Point of View with these
activities:
Follow a Tutorial on Writing First-Person Essays
Show steps
Supplement the course material with additional guidance on writing first-person essays. This will provide you with further insights and techniques to enhance your writing skills.
Browse courses on
Memoir Writing
Show steps
-
Search for a tutorial on writing first-person essays.
-
Watch or read the tutorial.
-
Take notes on the key points.
Practice Identifying First-Person Narrators
Show steps
Strengthen your ability to identify first-person narrators in writing. This will help you better understand and analyze first-person narratives.
Browse courses on
Point of View
Show steps
-
Find a short story or essay written in first person.
-
Identify the narrator of the story.
-
Explain how you know that the narrator is speaking in first person.
Read Bird by Bird by Anne Lamott
Show steps
Read a classic book on writing that provides practical advice and inspiration for first-person writers.
View
Somehow
on Amazon
Show steps
-
Purchase the book.
-
Read the book.
-
Take notes on the key points.
Four other activities
Expand to see all activities and additional details
Show all seven activities
Create a Collection of First-Person Writing Resources
Show steps
Gather a variety of resources on first-person writing, including articles, essays, and books. This will provide you with a valuable reference for your own writing.
Browse courses on
Memoir Writing
Show steps
-
Search for resources on first-person writing.
-
Save the resources to a folder or bookmark them.
-
Organize the resources into categories, such as 'Tips for Writing First-Person Narratives' or 'Examples of Great First-Person Writing'.
Read Looking for Alaska by John Green
Show steps
Read a great example of a first-person narrative. Consider the voice and the emotional freight of the narrator, as well as how the author uses language to create tone.
Show steps
-
Purchase the book.
-
Read the book.
-
Take notes on the elements of first-person writing that you observe.
Join a Writing Group
Show steps
Get feedback on your first-person writing from other writers. This will help you improve your writing skills and learn from others.
Browse courses on
Peer Feedback
Show steps
-
Find a writing group that focuses on first-person writing.
-
Attend a meeting and introduce yourself.
-
Share your writing with the group and get feedback.
Write a Personal Narrative Essay
Show steps
Put into practice the elements of first-person writing that you've learned in the course. Choose a personal experience to write about and focus on creating a strong narrative that is emotionally resonant and engaging.
Browse courses on
Personal Narrative
Show steps
-
Brainstorm a list of personal experiences that you could write about.
-
Choose an experience that you feel strongly about and that you think will make for a compelling story.
-
Write a rough draft of your essay.
-
Revise and edit your essay.
-
Share your essay with a friend or family member for feedback.
Follow a Tutorial on Writing First-Person Essays
Show steps
Supplement the course material with additional guidance on writing first-person essays. This will provide you with further insights and techniques to enhance your writing skills.
Browse courses on
Memoir Writing
Show steps
Show steps
Show steps
- Search for a tutorial on writing first-person essays.
- Watch or read the tutorial.
- Take notes on the key points.
Practice Identifying First-Person Narrators
Show steps
Strengthen your ability to identify first-person narrators in writing. This will help you better understand and analyze first-person narratives.
Browse courses on
Point of View
Show steps
Show steps
Show steps
- Find a short story or essay written in first person.
- Identify the narrator of the story.
- Explain how you know that the narrator is speaking in first person.
Read Bird by Bird by Anne Lamott
Show steps
Read a classic book on writing that provides practical advice and inspiration for first-person writers.
View
Somehow
on Amazon
Show steps
Show steps
Show steps
- Purchase the book.
- Read the book.
- Take notes on the key points.
Four other activities
Expand to see all activities and additional details
Show all seven activities
Create a Collection of First-Person Writing Resources
Show steps
Gather a variety of resources on first-person writing, including articles, essays, and books. This will provide you with a valuable reference for your own writing.
Browse courses on
Memoir Writing
Show steps
Show steps
Show steps
- Search for resources on first-person writing.
- Save the resources to a folder or bookmark them.
- Organize the resources into categories, such as 'Tips for Writing First-Person Narratives' or 'Examples of Great First-Person Writing'.
Read Looking for Alaska by John Green
Show steps
Read a great example of a first-person narrative. Consider the voice and the emotional freight of the narrator, as well as how the author uses language to create tone.
Show steps
Show steps
Show steps
- Purchase the book.
- Read the book.
- Take notes on the elements of first-person writing that you observe.
Join a Writing Group
Show steps
Get feedback on your first-person writing from other writers. This will help you improve your writing skills and learn from others.
Browse courses on
Peer Feedback
Show steps
Show steps
Show steps
- Find a writing group that focuses on first-person writing.
- Attend a meeting and introduce yourself.
- Share your writing with the group and get feedback.
Write a Personal Narrative Essay
Show steps
Put into practice the elements of first-person writing that you've learned in the course. Choose a personal experience to write about and focus on creating a strong narrative that is emotionally resonant and engaging.
Browse courses on
Personal Narrative
Show steps
Show steps
Show steps
- Brainstorm a list of personal experiences that you could write about.
- Choose an experience that you feel strongly about and that you think will make for a compelling story.
- Write a rough draft of your essay.
- Revise and edit your essay.
- Share your essay with a friend or family member for feedback.
Career center
Learners who complete Writing in First Person Point of View will develop knowledge and skills
that may be useful to these careers:
Author
Author
An Author writes books, articles, and other forms of literature. They may specialize in a particular genre, such as fiction, non-fiction, or poetry. This course may be helpful for Authors who want to learn how to develop their own unique writing style and voice.
Screenwriter
Screenwriter
A Screenwriter writes scripts for movies and television shows. They may specialize in a particular genre, such as comedy, drama, or action. This course may be useful for Screenwriters who want to learn how to write compelling and engaging stories that will capture the attention of audiences.
Professor
Professor
A Professor teaches and conducts research at a college or university. They may specialize in a particular field of study, such as history, English, or science. This course may be useful for Professors who want to learn how to develop and deliver engaging and informative lectures and lead discussions that encourage students to think critically and creatively.
Editor
Editor
An Editor reviews, edits, and proofreads written material. They may work for a variety of different organizations, such as newspapers, magazines, book publishers, and websites. This course may be useful for Editors who want to learn how to improve their editing skills and ensure that their work is error-free.
Content Creator
Content Creator
A Content Creator develops and produces content for a variety of different platforms, such as websites, social media, and print publications. They may specialize in a particular type of content, such as written content, video content, or audio content. This course may be useful for Content Creators who want to learn how to create engaging and shareable content that will capture the attention of their audience.
Journalist
Journalist
A Journalist gathers, analyzes, and reports on news and current events. They may specialize in a particular area, such as politics, business, or sports. This course may be useful for Journalists who want to improve their storytelling skills and learn how to write in a more engaging and personal way.
Teacher
Teacher
A Teacher develops and delivers lesson plans, teaches students, and assesses their progress. They may work in a variety of different settings, such as public schools, private schools, and colleges and universities. This course may be useful for Teachers who want to learn how to create engaging and effective lesson plans and teach students in a way that is both informative and enjoyable.
Researcher
Researcher
A Researcher conducts research in a particular field of study. They may work for a variety of different organizations, such as universities, government agencies, and businesses. This course may be useful for Researchers who want to learn how to develop and conduct research projects and analyze and interpret data.
Analyst
Analyst
An Analyst collects, analyzes, and interprets data to provide insights and recommendations to businesses and organizations. They may specialize in a particular area, such as financial analysis, market research, or data science. This course may be useful for Analysts who want to learn how to use data to make informed decisions and solve problems.
Consultant
Consultant
A Consultant provides advice and guidance to businesses and organizations on a variety of topics, such as management, marketing, and finance. They may work for a variety of different organizations, such as consulting firms, businesses, and non-profit organizations. This course may be useful for Consultants who want to learn how to develop and deliver effective consulting services and build relationships with clients.
Copywriter
Copywriter
A Copywriter writes advertising and marketing materials. They may specialize in a particular area, such as web content, social media, or print advertising. This course may be useful for Copywriters who want to learn how to write persuasive and effective copy that will help businesses achieve their marketing goals.
Public Relations Specialist
Public Relations Specialist
A Public Relations Specialist manages the public image of an organization or individual. They may develop and implement public relations campaigns, write press releases, and manage media relations. This course may be useful for Public Relations Specialists who want to learn how to communicate effectively with the public and build positive relationships with the media.
Marketing Manager
Marketing Manager
A Marketing Manager plans and executes marketing campaigns to promote products or services. They may work for a variety of different organizations, such as businesses, non-profit organizations, and government agencies. This course may be useful for Marketing Managers who want to learn how to develop effective marketing strategies and reach their target audience.
Communications Director
Communications Director
A Communications Director oversees all aspects of an organization's communication strategy. They may develop and implement communication plans, write speeches, and manage media relations. This course may be useful for Communications Directors who want to learn how to communicate effectively with a variety of audiences and build positive relationships with the media.
Social Media Manager
Social Media Manager
A Social Media Manager manages an organization's social media presence. They may develop and implement social media campaigns, create and share content, and engage with followers. This course may be useful for Social Media Managers who want to learn how to use social media effectively to reach their target audience and build relationships with customers.
For more career information including salaries, visit:
OpenCourser.com/course/hcy3uv/writing
Reading list
We've selected 14 books
that we think will supplement your
learning. Use these to
develop background knowledge, enrich your coursework, and gain a
deeper understanding of the topics covered in
Writing in First Person Point of View.
Provides a comprehensive guide to writing memoir, covering topics such as finding your voice, developing a narrative structure, and dealing with the emotional challenges of writing about your own life. It valuable resource for anyone interested in writing first-person non-fiction.
Save
Offers a series of essays on the art of writing personal narrative, exploring topics such as the use of detail, the importance of voice, and the ethical responsibilities of the writer. It thought-provoking and inspiring read for anyone interested in writing first-person non-fiction.
Provides a framework for understanding the structure of stories, based on the work of mythologist Joseph Campbell. It valuable resource for writers of all genres, including first-person non-fiction.
Save
Offers a series of essays on the writing process, covering topics such as overcoming writer's block, dealing with criticism, and finding your voice. It witty and inspiring read for writers of all levels.
This classic guide to writing provides clear and concise advice on grammar, punctuation, and style. It is an essential resource for writers of all genres, including first-person non-fiction.
Save
This memoir by Stephen King offers insights into his writing process and philosophy. It fascinating read for writers of all genres, including first-person non-fiction.
This comprehensive guide to writing style covers a wide range of topics, from grammar and punctuation to the use of figurative language. It valuable resource for writers of all genres, including first-person non-fiction.
Save
This guide provides practical advice on writing nonfiction, including tips on research, interviewing, and storytelling. It valuable resource for writers of all genres, including first-person non-fiction.
Provides an overview of the creative nonfiction genre, covering topics such as narrative structure, character development, and the use of literary devices. It valuable resource for writers of all genres, including first-person non-fiction.
Explores the ethical and practical challenges of writing memoir, including issues of privacy, truth, and self-disclosure. It thought-provoking read for anyone interested in writing first-person non-fiction.
Save
Provides a comprehensive overview of the essay genre, covering topics such as structure, style, and the use of literary devices. It valuable resource for writers of all genres, including first-person non-fiction.
Explores the theory and practice of the first-person essay, covering topics such as narrative structure, voice, and the use of literary devices. It valuable resource for writers of first-person non-fiction.
Save
Offers a series of essays on the creative process, covering topics such as overcoming fear, finding inspiration, and staying motivated. It thought-provoking read for anyone involved in the creative arts, including writing.
Save
Offers a series of motivational essays on overcoming the obstacles that prevent us from achieving our creative goals. It valuable read for anyone who wants to improve their writing or other creative endeavors.
For more information about how these books relate to this course, visit:
OpenCourser.com/course/hcy3uv/writing
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Wesleyan University
Instructor
Ariel Levy
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This course belongs to a
collection
called
Memoir and Personal Essay: Write About Yourself. It's comprised of four courses:
- Writing Stories About Ourselves
- Memoir and Personal Essay: Managing Your Relationship with the Reader
- Writing in First Person Point of View (viewing)
- Writing a Personal Essay
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