1.3.18+and+1.4.18

All of the graphic novels that we'll be exploring involve personal narrative on some level. The authors are using the genre to explore their experiences. Before we start reading graphic novels next week, we're going to do a bit of work to tap into our own narratives.

WU: Personal Narrative Topics

A Hero’s Journey, or any story really, is made up of many moments in a person or character’s life. Brainstorm some key moments/experiences from your life. These don’t have to the “biggest” moments in your life; they might be smaller, quieter experiences. List: > > > >
 * 1)  Challenges/conflicts you’ve faced/are facing: internal or external, physical or emotional/mental
 * 1)  Achievements: seen or unseen
 * 1)  Journeys you’ve completed: physical or emotional/mental
 * 1)  Important interactions with others: friends or “enemies,” verbal or physical

Consider: injuries, losses, gains, moments of change, seeing a situation/person anew, things that people have said to you, first memories, beautiful memories, painful memories, funny memories, etc.

Read: Snapshot Memories by Stephen King https://drive.google.com/file/d/0B3AOrExNP7aELW4ycWVfaXpxcjg/view?usp=sharing

Discuss: What techniques does he use in creating his snapshots?

Snapshot Writing: For next class, create two snapshot memories in the style of Stephen King. These do not need to be the most important moments in your life; they might be small. **In at least a half a page (typed, double spaced) for each snapshot,** focus on creating the memory though vivid imagery, careful, detailed word choice, and focus on your voice as an author. Try to make me feel like I'm seeing the memory through your eyes. Some snapshots to consider:

--injuries --your first memory --important things that people said to you --important places --strange moments --embarrassing or uncomfortable moments --important people and their influence on you

Here are a few models: https://docs.google.com/document/d/1jMhJbZjO_9O97MBJPJYwhDVcosS4U50GAzC6ImbFfbw/edit?usp=sharing