Writing in First Person Point of View

  • 4.7
Approx. 6 hours to complete

Course Summary

Explore the world of first-person point of view in literature and learn how to write stories that will captivate your readers with this course.

Key Learning Points

  • Learn how to write compelling stories using first-person point of view.
  • Discover the nuances of first-person narration in literature.
  • Get tips and tricks for crafting engaging and effective first-person narratives.

Related Topics for further study


Learning Outcomes

  • Understand the techniques and nuances of first-person narration for literature
  • Develop a strong understanding of character development and voice in writing
  • Learn how to craft compelling and effective first-person narratives

Prerequisites or good to have knowledge before taking this course

  • Basic understanding of creative writing principles
  • A willingness to experiment with different narrative techniques

Course Difficulty Level

Beginner to Intermediate

Course Format

  • Self-paced
  • Online
  • Video lectures
  • Writing assignments

Similar Courses

  • Creative Writing: Crafting Personal Essays with Impact
  • The Craft of Plot
  • Writing for Young Readers: Opening the Treasure Chest

Related Education Paths


Related Books

Description

If you have always wanted to tell your own story—in a memoir, first-person essay, or any other form of autobiographical non-fiction—but felt you lacked the tools or the framework, this is the class for you. We will learn how successful first-person writing is structured to offer the reader a sense of propulsive motion, and is guided by a narrator who is deliberately crafted. We will explore the ways in which language can be used to create tone, so that the emotional freight of your words is as potent as the storytelling. And crucially, we will consider the writer's responsibility to the reader: the importance of being a guide who includes the reader in the sensory, emotional, and intellectual experience you mean to share through your writing.

Outline

  • Developing a Narrator in First Person Writing
  • Developing Trust with the Reader
  • What's Important?
  • Intimacy and Formality
  • Narrator's Perspective
  • The Journey
  • Theme and Chronology
  • Where to Begin
  • Momentum
  • Sequence and Conflict
  • Finding Your Voice
  • Making It Happen
  • Language and Resonance
  • Using Humor and Self-Effacement
  • A Conversation with Amy Bloom about Dialogue
  • What's Your Point?
  • Concept and Storytelling
  • Understatement
  • Discovery and Insight

Summary of User Reviews

Discover the power of First-Person Point of View with this comprehensive course from Coursera. Students rave about the practical and engaging content, which offers a deep understanding of the topic. One key aspect that many users appreciate is the real-world examples provided throughout the course.

Pros from User Reviews

  • Practical and engaging content
  • Real-world examples throughout the course
  • Great for beginners and experienced writers alike

Cons from User Reviews

  • Some users found the course to be too basic
  • Limited interaction with instructors
  • Not enough focus on advanced techniques
English
Available now
Approx. 6 hours to complete
Ariel Levy
Wesleyan University
Coursera

Instructor

Ariel Levy

  • 4.7 Raiting
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