Writing at Home in the Natural World: Creative Non-Fiction
This class will take place at Dillman’s Bay Resort on Wednesday, July 15, 2026, 9:00 a.m.-3:45 p.m. (includes a lunch break), with John Bates.
This is the first of two Fe University courses offered in partnership with Dillman’s Art Workshop Retreat in 2026. (The other is “Writing at Home in the Natural World: Nature Through Poetry” on Thursday, July 16, 2026; CLICK HERE to go to its page in our online course catalog!)
We thank Dillman’s for their generosity in working with us. Dillman’s is a beautiful Northwoods resort with a world-class art workshop series, and we are grateful to be offering these classes with them.
Writing at Home in the Natural World: Creative Non-Fiction
In writing about the natural world, we need to write with both a sense of wonder and a scientist’s eye. In this one-day course, we’ll focus on creative non-fiction, two words that may not seem to go together, but which really do. Creative non-fiction tells true stories using accurate facts about real life, but does so in a vivid, enthralling manner that reads every bit as compellingly as fiction. Writers of creative non-fiction supply information while being humorous, inspirational, sometimes spiritual, and often wildly creative at the same time.
During the second session, we’ll explore the world of poetry, reading works from poets who have made deep connections with their home places, and discussing what makes their words move our minds and hearts.
We’ll also take the time to try our hand at writing creative non-fiction using some writing prompts, and as time permits, do some sharing.
No experience necessary – just an open heart and deep curiosity.
Instructor John Bates is the author of 11 books and a contributor to eight others, all of which focus on the natural history of the Northwoods. He has worked as a naturalist in Wisconsin’s Northwoods for 36 years, leading an array of trips and giving talks designed to help people further understand the remarkable diversity and beauty of nature, and our place within it.
Requirements: Students must bring their own favorite writing implements–pen and notebook, laptop, etc.
We recommend signing up at least two weeks ahead of class to ensure class fills and to prevent cancellation.
This class is limited to 12 students.
Register by July 1 to get a $5 Early Bird discount off the regular registration price of $35!
Instructor: John Bates
Online Registration: Scroll down to our Registration form to register online!
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Offline Registration: Download PDF Registration Form, complete and mail in with payment.
Registration Questions? Contact us or call (715) 862-2032 or (715) 476-2881.
Registration Issues/Troubleshooting: If you are registering with one email address for two or more people, please register each person individually (i.e. do not register all at once, but add students one at a time to checkout). If you continue to have difficulty or have another question, please contact us.
Course Cancellations: Students are encouraged to register at least 2 weeks before the beginning of any Fe University course. A course with less than 4 students 2 weeks before the start date may be cancelled at instructor/FeU discretion, with students’ registrations refunded. If you’re interested in a class, please sign up early! Thank you.
Student Cancellations: If a registered student cancels, registration can be refunded if requested 4 or more days before the course’s start date. We’re afraid cancellation requests made 3 or fewer days before the course’s start date are unable to be refunded.