Tragedy + Time: Nonfiction Tragicomedy Writing with Elissa Bassist
The editor, humor writer, teacher, and author will visit the Kennedy Center in DC next march to teach a course in their comedy series. Her course will be designed around “traumedy”—that is, how to make readers laugh while punching them in the heart.
About Tragedy + Time
Referencing Mark Twain’s quote that “comedy equals tragedy plus time,” this series of classes, discussions, and shows focuses on grief through the lens of comedy. Tragedy + Time is part of the Center’s Arts & Wellbeing programming.
Elissa Bassist is an editor, humor writer, teacher, speaker, and author of the book HYSTERICAL. As a writer, she spins the toughest parts of her life into hilarious essays. In this class, Bassist will teach us about “traumedy”—that is, how to make readers laugh while punching them in the heart.
Her Author Programming Targets include:
Tragedy Plus Time
How To Write A Tragicomic Memoir
Humor Writing and Satire Workshop for People Who Are or Aren’t Funny (Yet)
Getting Good at Rejection
