Overview
This lecture introduces creative nonfiction, differentiates it from fiction, explores its forms, history, and purposes, and explains why and how students can engage with this genre.
Introduction to Creative Nonfiction
- Creative nonfiction uses literary techniques to present factual stories in an engaging way.
- It covers true stories told with attention to plot, character development, and dialogue.
- Creative nonfiction is less familiar than fiction but combines fact with storytelling elements.
Names and History of Creative Nonfiction
- Also called the fourth genre, narrative nonfiction, literary journalism, literature of fact, and literature of reality.
- Originated with essayists like Michel de Montaigne in the 16th century.
- Lee Gutkind is known as the "Godfather" of creative nonfiction for founding the first nonfiction magazine.
Reasons for Writing Creative Nonfiction
- To write family histories and journals for future generations.
- To share extraordinary, painful, or meaningful life experiences.
- As a form of personal reflection or catharsis.
- To inspire or give hope to others using personal stories.
- To document personal growth, preserve feelings, or release stress.
Fiction vs. Creative Nonfiction
- Fiction invents characters and events; creative nonfiction is based on real people and true events.
- Nonfiction dialogue should be accurate or faithfully recreated; fiction dialogue can be made up.
- Research is necessary in creative nonfiction for accuracy, while fiction may not require it.
- Lying or fabricating changes creative nonfiction into fiction.
Forms of Creative Nonfiction
- Short forms (750–5,000 words): personal essays, lyrical essays, travelogues, food articles, profiles, vignettes.
- Long forms (50,000–100,000 words): memoirs, autobiographies, biographies, nonfiction novels.
- Vignette: a short slice-of-life nonfiction piece focusing on a single moment or insight.
Key Terms & Definitions
- Creative Nonfiction — A literary genre that presents true stories using narrative techniques.
- Fourth Genre — Another term for creative nonfiction, highlighting its status alongside fiction, poetry, and drama.
- Vignette — A brief, evocative story or essay capturing a moment or scene from real life.
Action Items / Next Steps
- Write a short creative summary of what you learned about creative nonfiction and post it on Facebook with a photo and the hashtag #nonfiction.
- Prepare for next week's session by completing the assigned challenge.