Introduction to Creative Writing

This course serves as an exploration of the creative writing process, including idea generation, creation and development of drafts, and basic editing skills. Through frequent and diverse exercises, students develop their use of voice, imagery, characterization, dialogue, and narration. Students work in poetry, prose poetry, drama, and fiction. Works produced by professional writers as well as by students in the class form the basis of discussion in the workshop process.

Courses in creative writing are offered in conjunction with the Writing Program at Columbia University’s School of the Arts. Overseen by Chair of Creative Writing Lis Harris, Professor Alan Ziegler, and Director of Creative Writing for Pre-College Programs Christina Rumpf, the creative writing courses are designed to challenge and engage students interested in literary creation, providing them with a substantial foundation for further exploration of their creative work.