From memoir to journalism, from historical fiction to fanfiction—what are the ethics of writing about real people? What’s the difference between writing about living people and the deceased, or between famous people and people you know? Is there a distinction between writing stories “based on real events” and placing real people into totally fictional scenarios? What responsibilities do you have to your family and friends when writing about your own life?
In this single-session seminar with a generative workshop element, we’ll look at the work of writers like Melissa Febos, Blake Butler, and the poet Ai, among others, to explore how different writers approach the ethical conundrums of representing (and sometimes fictionalizing) real people in all genres.
Use code EARLYBIRD at checkout for 10% off through May 6! (Porch members, check your email for your special earlybird discount code.)
Ellie Black is a poet and memoirist. She’s currently a PhD student in Creative Writing at the University of Mississippi, where she also received her MFA. Winner of the 2023 Pinch Literary Award in Poetry, she has work published in The Drift, Ninth Letter, Hayden’s Ferry Review, Mississippi Review, The Offing, Black Warrior Review, Best New Poets, and elsewhere.
Ellie is new to The Porch. Welcome!
