In a world suffering from information overload, the best way to move readers is through powerful story-telling. The best writers have an ability to parachute into somebody's life, or into the center of an important issue or news event, and craft a true-life drama.
Some narratives take months, others an afternoon.
Students in the class will study the ingredients and techniques of writing narrative non-fiction for newspapers and magazines. They will write several short pieces, and several long-form pieces as well. They will read great writers, and discuss what elements worked -or didn't. These writers will include Ernie Pyle, Richard Ben Cramer, Truman Capote, Gay Talese, and Tom Wolfe, plus storytellers from the New York Times and the Philadelphia Inquirer. Those interested in taking the course should submit one or two samples of their best nonfiction work, and briefly articulate their interest.