2/5 The Sense of Memory
2/5 The Sense of Memory
Creative thought begins with the remembrance of what is known. Yet everything you’ve ever experienced is in your subconscious. Sensory detail allows access to such emotional resonance. In this workshop, we will explore how to use our senses to add emotion and depth to our writing. We will discuss current theories regarding memory and creativity, and then we will turn our energies toward exercises that may access the unconscious mind, ultimately rendering those moments in writing. You will leave with a better understanding of how to develop greater sensory detail in your work to further develop your characters, and how the richness of memory can compel readers and serve as a springboard to new possibilities.
By the end of this workshop, writers will…
Utilize a deeper understanding of the importance of memory in their creative work and how best to access these memories
Understand how to add emotion and sensory detail to your personal writing
Discover deeper emotional and intellectual connections to their work
Develop the start of several pieces that access your subconscious mind and offer insight into the stories you want and need to tell
Utilize a variety of prompts, strategies and practical tips to increase their confidence and skills
Who is the Instructor? Melissa Fraterrigo’s forthcoming memoir-in-essays is The Perils of Girlhood (University of Nebraska Press, September 1, 2025). She is also the author of the novel, Glory Days (University of Nebraska Press), which was named one of "The Best Fiction of 2017" by Chicago Review of Books. Melissa is also the author of the short story collection, The Longest Pregnancy (Livingston Press). Her fiction and nonfiction have appeared in a variety of journals including Puerto del Sol, Massachusetts Review, Fifth Wednesday Journal, Sou’wester and Shenandoah. She has twice been nominated for Pushcart Prizes.In addition to her publications, she has taught creative writing at Bowling Green State University, Southern Utah University, Penn State-Altoona, the Indiana Writers’ Center and IUPUI. Melissa currently teaching creative writing at Purdue University and is the founder of Lafayette Writers’ Studio.
To learn more or read her work visit melissafraterrigo.com.
When is this class offered?
This class is offered Wednesday, February 5 from 7-9 p.m. EST. This workshop is open to writers of all levels.
Interested in the class but the date does not work for you? Don’t despair. All registrants will receive a recording of the class within three business days of the course.