What does it mean to “write from the heart”? Why does some writing move us to tears, while other writing leaves us cold? In this class, we will analyze the techniques that make writing authentic, believable, and powerful. Our readings will tackle the infinitely complex subject of human relationships, examining how writers explore the ties that bind people together, with special emphasis on relationships in families and with the self. We will examine personal essays, poetry, and oral histories with the goal of understanding why and how they communicate so powerfully. Students will practice their writing skills by producing short writing responses as well as several 3-4 page papers on a variety of topics.Writing 1 is an introduction to college-level writing, reading, and discussion. Initial writing assignments will involve students with language as a personally expressive, creative, and imaginative medium. Later assignments will bring this expressiveness to bear on practical writing tasks typical of college-level work: research, analysis,argument, etc. Reading is designed to stimulate discussion and present models for the students'own writing. Although writing and reading are the main emphases, attention will also be given to informal discussion and oral presentation.

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