The Graphic Novel as a Tool for Imaginative Leaping in Creative Nonfiction
Class
Article
Department
English
Faculty Mentor
Charles Waugh
Presentation Type
Oral Presentation
Abstract
The boundary between the happening truth and the surreal Truth with a capital "T" presents the creative nonfiction writer with a unique challenge. How does one convey complex emotional truths without alienating the audience? While figurative language and abstractions have been a part of the creative nonfiction writer's toolbox for years, recent acknowledgment of the graphic novel as a form of serious literature has unveiled new paths in dealing with this challenge. Drawing from writers such as Art Spiegelman (Maus), David Small (Stitches), Marjane Satrapi (Persepolis), Alison Bechdel (Fun Home), and Joe Sacco (Palestine), my research examines the advantages and disadvantages of the graphic novel as a tool for conveying the surreal in creative nonfiction. I will also discuss my experience in writing my own graphic novel as part of my Honors Thesis and the challenges graphic novelists face in bringing their stories to life.
Start Date
4-9-2015 12:00 PM
The Graphic Novel as a Tool for Imaginative Leaping in Creative Nonfiction
The boundary between the happening truth and the surreal Truth with a capital "T" presents the creative nonfiction writer with a unique challenge. How does one convey complex emotional truths without alienating the audience? While figurative language and abstractions have been a part of the creative nonfiction writer's toolbox for years, recent acknowledgment of the graphic novel as a form of serious literature has unveiled new paths in dealing with this challenge. Drawing from writers such as Art Spiegelman (Maus), David Small (Stitches), Marjane Satrapi (Persepolis), Alison Bechdel (Fun Home), and Joe Sacco (Palestine), my research examines the advantages and disadvantages of the graphic novel as a tool for conveying the surreal in creative nonfiction. I will also discuss my experience in writing my own graphic novel as part of my Honors Thesis and the challenges graphic novelists face in bringing their stories to life.