Tragedy Plus Time: Writing "Traumedy"

Tragedy plus time equals comedy, and in this OnDemand webinar on "traumedy" we'll do that math. People listen to a joke when they may ignore a sob story, so we’ll break down how to turn a sad diary entry into a piece of publishable writing–because if you can’t say something straight (if it’s too preachy, confessional, or harrowing), then say it slant AF. This class is perfect for writers who work across genres (fiction, nonfiction, humor, serious) or want to learn how. Our ultimate goal will be to make readers laugh while PUNCHING THEM IN THE HEART. Prerequisite: being in therapy.

Instructor: Elissa Bassist is the editor of the “Funny Women” column on The Rumpus and the author of Hysterical, a semi-finalist for the Thurber Prize for American Humor. As a founding contributor to The Rumpus, Elissa has written cultural and personal criticism since the website launched in 2009. Her next book, a comedy writing craft book, is forthcoming from Grand Central Publishing. Elissa teaches humor writing at The New School, 92NY, Lighthouse Writers Workshop, and elsewhere, and she is probably her therapist’s favorite. Visit www.elissbassist.com for upcoming classes.