A vital and growing form, nonfiction has needed a sustained discussion about its poetics-both the theory and the craft of this genre. The Nonfictionist's Guide offers a lively exploration of the elements of contemporary nonfiction and suggests imaginative approaches to writing it. Each chapter on a vital aspect of contemporary nonfiction concludes with a separate section of relevant notes for nonfictionists. Beginning with a new definition of nonfiction and an explanation of the nonfiction motive, this book discusses the use of experimental forms, the effects of present and past tense and experiential and reflective voices, and the issue of truth. Robert Root provides ground-breaking explorations of the segmented essay and the role of spaces as an essential literary device, guiding both readers and writers through the innovative and stimulating ways we write nonfiction now. Book jacket.

Robert Root is a writer, editor, and teacher. A professor emeritus of English at Central Michigan University