Written on Our Bodies: The Stories in Our Scars, Tattoos, and Other Body Markings

“Whether hidden or visible, we all have scars,” says instructor Rob Williams. “Some of us have tattoos, birthmarks, stretch marks or other various body markings—accidental or intentional. What are the stories behind them? What is our own relationship to them? What can these markings tell us about ourselves, and what can they teach others?”

In this 3-week class, we’ll explore the stories told by our scars, our tattoos, and body modifications. We’ll read and discuss examples from writers, both new and established, such as Maggie Nelson and David Shields, to see how they navigate this wholly unique terrain. In a safe, supportive space, we’ll work on writing exercises that will guide us through how to write out the narrative of our body markings, our scars, our truths.

Students will walk away with a sound understanding of various ways to render the scars, tattoos, or markings: metaphorically, symbolically, and realistically. Students will also gain a clearer awareness of their writing sensibilities, in addition to direction on how to further strengthen their craft. They will leave the class with the start of, a short rough draft of, or a plan for a Creative Nonfiction piece.

Though this is primarily a nonfiction/memoir class, poets and fiction writers are more than welcome!

About The Writing Salon's In-Person Classes

In-person class schedules are subject to sudden change or cancellation due to Covid. We will communicate any course changes to you as quickly as possible. Masking, social distancing, and other Covid measures will be enforced in accordance with local guidelines. Before your class meets, you'll receive an email from The Writing Salon with more information about your class. If you have any questions about in-person learning, please don't hesitate to reach out to us at hello@writingsalons.com.