Fall | Creative Nonfiction Workshop: Attention to Detail or “Of Thumbs” w Paige Thomas | Oct 11 – Nov 1 | In-Person

Before being dubbed the inventor of the essay form, Michel de Montaigne was a grief-stricken man who locked himself away in a tower on his family’s manor on the French countryside where, for years, he labored over what would become his famous essays. In his solitude, he wrote a series of meditations titled “Of _____” — “Of Smells,” “Of the Custom of Wearing Clothes,” “Of Posting,” (letters, that is), “Of Sleep,” and “Of Thumbs” — that attempted the impossible task of defining and then exhausting his interest in individual objects or desires. Modern life does not mirror Montaigne’s privilege of time, space, and quietude, but part of his beloved legacy still rings true: the necessity of attention to detail—to singularity—and how dedication to understanding the specific can crack open subjects in a way that keeps them circulating—timeless—for hundred of years. What would a modern writer write “Of _____” on?  Say, “Of Anxiety,” “Of Sourdough Starters,” “Of the Custom of Cancel Culture,” “Of Isolation,” “Of Traffic,” “Of Collective Grief,” even “Of Feet Pics.” In this generative workshop, whether you’re working on a brand new essay idea or reinvigorating an abandoned project, you will take a fresh look at everyday objects or subjects that hold your interest until they split open, fall apart, surprise, or even horrify you. Through a sequence of examinations and re-examinations, you’ll get to dive into several “Of _________” essays and learn a ton about close attention to details.

All in-person students must show proof of Covid-19 vaccination. 

Teacher: Paige ThomasTime: Oct 11 – Nov 1, 6 – 8pm, 4 weeksLocation: Attic Institute of Arts and Letters, 1033 SW Yamhill, Suite 405Total Fee: Discounted Early Registration is due seven (7) days prior to the start of the workshop. | Discounted Early Registration: $175 (cash/check); $182 (Paypal). | Tuition Registration: $190 (cash/check); $197 (PayPal).