Workshop Immersion

The writer John Gardner describes fiction as a continuous, vivid, and immersive
dream—but how do you accomplish that feat?  In this generative class, you will create
original plot scenarios based on five basic plot points. We will work on an array of craft
topics from developing vivid scene[s] and summary[s] to writing an immersive first
paragraph. This class is for the beginner and the advanced writer of realism or fantasy.
Come prepared to write a lot and share new work. Let go of your old work (for now) to
discover fresh methods and reinvigorate your writing. Bring notepad and pen and/or
computer. You will receive handouts prior to the workshop.

Debra Magpie Earling is the acclaimed author of the novels Perma Red and The Lost Journals of Sacajewea. Perma Red, received numerous awards including a WILLA Literary Award and an American Book Award and, in 2024, The Atlantic placed Perma Red on its list of Great American Novels. Her latest novel, The Lost Journals of Sacajewea, was honored with the Montana Book Award and an American Book Award. Earling has received fellowships from the National Endowment for the Arts and the Guggenheim Foundation. She retired from the University of Montana where she was named professor emeritus in 2021. Earling is Bitterroot Salish and a member and citizen of the Confederated Salish & Kootenai Tribes.