Bending Genre: Essays on Creative Nonfiction

Bending Genre, a book on creative nonfiction, explores the boundaries between fact and fiction, with 23 new essays expanding the exploration of hybridity, structure, unconventionality, and resistance. It features perspectives from leading writers and breaks new ground in the genre.

Format: Paperback / softback
Length: 360 pages
Publication date: 23 February 2023
Publisher: Bloomsbury Publishing Plc

Ever since the term creative nonfiction first came into widespread use, memoirists, journalists, essayists, and fiction writers have been engaged in a lively debate over the boundaries between fact and fiction. A seminal work on the form, Bending Genre, challenges the notion of fixed boundaries and explores the possibilities of pushing the line between genres. The expanded second edition of the book, with 23 new essays, delves deeper into the themes of hybridity, structure, unconventionality, and resistance in creative nonfiction, offering fresh perspectives and pushing the conversation forward in diverse and exciting ways.

Written for writers and students of creative writing, Bending Genre brings together the insights of leading writers in the field, including Michael Martone, Brenda Miller, Ander Monson, David Shields, Kazim Ali, and Catina Bacote, as well as new contributors Catina Bacote, Ira Sukrungruang, Ingrid Horrocks, Elena Passarello, and Aviya Kushner. Each writer's innovative essay explores the boundaries of genre and examines how creative nonfiction is shaped, providing valuable models for writing.

One of the key features of Bending Genre is its hybrid nature. The book combines elements of memoir, journalism, essay, and fiction, creating a unique and dynamic form of writing that defies easy categorization. This hybridization allows writers to explore multiple perspectives and genres, creating works that are both personal and universal.

The second edition of Bending Genre includes updated introductions to the new edition, expanded sections on hybrids, structures, and unconventionality, and a new section on resistances. With 50 essays in all, the book offers a comprehensive exploration of the creative nonfiction genre, covering a wide range of topics and styles.

One of the central themes of Bending Genre is the idea of hybridity. The book explores how writers can blend different genres and styles to create works that are both innovative and authentic. It challenges the notion that genres are fixed and rigid and encourages writers to experiment with new forms and techniques.

Another important theme of the book is structure. Bending Genre examines how writers can structure their works to create a sense of coherence and meaning. It explores different narrative structures, such as linear, nonlinear, and fragmented, and how they can be used to convey different messages and emotions.

Unconventionality is another key theme of the book. Bending Genre explores how writers can break away from traditional conventions and create works that are bold and daring. It encourages writers to take risks and experiment with new forms and styles, even if they are not widely accepted.

Resistance is also a significant theme of the book. Bending Genre explores how writers can use their writing to resist oppression and injustice. It examines how writers can use their words to challenge power structures and promote social change.

In addition to its theoretical insights, Bending Genre is also a practical guide for writers. It provides tips and techniques for writing creative nonfiction, including how to develop characters, create a compelling narrative, and use language effectively. The book also includes examples of successful creative nonfiction works, which can inspire and motivate writers.

One of the strengths of Bending Genre is its accessibility. The book is written in a clear and engaging style, making it accessible to readers of all levels. It also includes a glossary of terms and a bibliography of recommended reading, which can help writers further explore the genre.

However, Bending Genre is not without its challenges. Some readers may find the book's hybrid nature confusing or overwhelming, and may struggle to understand the different genres and styles being discussed. Additionally, some of the essays may be more theoretical than practical, which may not be of interest to all writers.

Despite these challenges, Bending Genre remains a valuable resource for writers and students of creative writing. Its innovative approach to the genre challenges the boundaries of what is possible in writing, and its practical guide provides valuable tips and techniques for writing creative nonfiction. Whether you are a seasoned writer or a newcomer to the genre, Bending Genre is sure to inspire and motivate you.

In conclusion, Bending Genre is a seminal work on the form of creative nonfiction that challenges the notion of fixed boundaries and explores the possibilities of pushing the line between genres. The expanded second edition of the book, with 23 new essays, delves deeper into the themes of hybridity, structure, unconventionality, and resistance in creative nonfiction, offering fresh perspectives and pushing the conversation forward in diverse and exciting ways. Whether you are a writer or a student of creative writing, Bending Genre is a valuable resource that will help you develop your skills and create works that are both personal and universal.

Weight: 566g
Dimension: 153 x 229 x 29 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9781501386060
Edition number: 2 ed