The Five Whys: Uncovering What Drives Your Writing

“What truly drives you to write what you write?” asks instructor Ray Hsu. “Whether you’re struggling with a story idea, debating a craft pursuit, or stuck in a project, this class will invite you to dig deep into the motivations, questions, and memories at the heart of your creative work.” 

Inspired by a simple but powerful tool used in design and coaching, we’ll ask “Why?” five times to get to the root of a writing challenge. Ray says, “First, you’ll identify the challenge, such as writer’s block or character development. Next, you’ll ask five whys to discover more about it. You’ll then ‘answer’ the series of questions by producing writing that will lead to surprising breakthroughs.” 

Throughout our five weeks together, we’ll use this technique to generate new material, overcome craft issues, dredge up the ideas that matter most to us, and drive forward writing projects. Each week we’ll write together in response to these why-driven prompts and discuss our discoveries. Although the class is primarily generative, there will be opportunities for the sharing of writing and for light feedback from Ray and the group.

“No prior experience is necessary—just curiosity, openness, and a willingness to explore,” Ray says. “By the end of class, you’ll have many new pages, fresh insights into your creative practice, and the confidence and purpose to move forward with your writing and any writing projects.”

About The Writing Salon's Online Zoom Classes

You will be able to participate in live class meetings via Zoom videoconference. To attend classes, you'll need a phone, tablet or computer and access to the internet. You can participate in the class from wherever you'd like, whether on your living room couch or in your office. Before your class meets, you'll receive an email from The Writing Salon with more information about Zoom and your remote class. If you have any questions about remote learning, please don't hesitate to reach out to us at hello@writingsalons.com.