What are the best kinds of classes for perfecting the writing craft?

1. 69

   thecoffeewriteposted 12 years ago

   What are the best kinds of classes for perfecting the writing craft?
   
   I'm new to writing. I do poetry and music lyrics but I want to expand. I'm not looking for anything specific right now. I simply want to enhance my writing ability. I'm interested in the best course of action a seasoned/professional writer can suggest. I'm open to going back to school provided I don't have to leave my home town, Chicago. For now anyway.

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2. 58

   GoGreenTipsposted 12 years ago

   I'm not sure of what kind of writing classes, but I know that just writing and reading can help your writing tremendously. Sometimes i think school is overrated anyway. Lots of books I found on Amazon really helped me improve...

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3. 0

   Aka Professor Mposted 12 years ago

   Hi thecoffeewrite!
   Thank you for posing this question, here. Having written quite a diverse medley of printed written material myself, I think I can be of help to you! I find that most writers need to expand their reading material and look for authors whose work they are drawn to.
   
   Most people that I've corresponded with, do their best work when they are inspired by someone whose work they admire. Start with the classics and see what does it for you. I always believe in the "teaching by example" technique. By that I mean I prefer to read the work of a teacher/ writer who has already written the way that they are trying to teach me.
   
   If they show me that they can do it themselves, then I know that their own writing credibility is genuine. Now I know that you're probably asking yourself, Who is this person and wondering if he knows were of he speaks! If you are then you are both a wise and cautious individual, my friend.
   
   So to be fair and in my own defense, thecoffeewriter, let me  now direct you to a site called "The Professor's Write Site!" which can be found at the following URL http://www.theprofessorswritesite.blogspot.com 
   
   It's a Blogger blog site that I created for writers just like you, who want to improve their skills. There is no cost to use the site, nor are there any newsletters to sign up for.
   
   What there is there however are articles, how to's,  tips, writers resources and a few good writers who help those who choose to visit the site overcome the many stumbling blocks that all writers face.
   
   You are welcome to check it out as other well known Hubbers like Epigramman, Lady Wordsmith, and saddlerider1 just to name a few. Angel aka the Philosopher who writes on HubPages as A.CreativeThinker has contributed many fine pieces that our visitors have found extremely helpful.
   
   All these and some other Hubbers liked it so much they became members. There is only one thing that it will cost you and that is your time to visit it. Other than that, please be my guest! This is my personal invitation to you, thecoffeewriter!
   
   Regards Mike (Aka Professor M) ;D

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4. 58

   PARASMARTposted 12 years ago

   I think a 'creative writing' class would be best.
   But as a published 40 year veteran writer, the best way to enhance your writing is simply by writing.  AS you write your writing will get better.  What makes a good writer is not a class but LIFE.  When you express your life on paper then it is unique and it is original and fresh and HERE AND NOW,  It is your good and bad experiences that make up a well written poem or lyric.  Most writers need to take a grammar class, for misspelled words and bad punctuation, for this takes away from your true meaning.  It is like watching a movie that keeps 'streaming' through it.  Very annoying.  Live life and write.  It's that simple.
     I hope this help.  My poem "Let the Children Play" had good reviews, you might like to read it here in Hubpages.  Good Luck and God Bless!

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5. 58

   genupherposted 12 years ago

   I suggest looking at your local community college . Often you will find courses and workshops geared towards creative writing in general as well as poetry in specific. A JC is often the most affordable option to begin your professional quest.

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6. 71

   Wib Magliposted 12 years ago

   I took an online grammer course from UC San Diego. Even though I already had a couple of articles in a national magazine, the course gave me a confidence boost.
   
   I also think that reading a lot and paying attention to how what you read is structured really helps.

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7. 49

   MissKatieLynneposted 12 years ago

   Going to college for a writer? Wondering what classes to take? Try these! read more

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