Stoney Hardcastle to teach creative writing again at EOSC.

Anyone interested in creative writing has an opportunity to learn novel, short story and poetry writing at Eastern Oklahoma State College this spring semester from nationally know author and teacher Stoney Hardcastle.

At the urging of several wishing to polish their creative writing skills Hardcastle has agreed to come out of retirement and once again teach a creative writing course.

In 1976 he established a creative writing program at EOSC under the umbrella of the journalism department. Soon the program gained national recognition as one of the country’s top writing programs and has produced many well known authors of full length novels as well as magazine and newspaper articles. It would be difficult today to find a book store or newsstand without a title by one of Hardcastle’s former students.

Through his innovative and creative teaching techniques Hardcastle introduced several new theories and concepts now being used in many public schools and colleges. His methods are non-traditional with emphasis on creativity, expression, motivation and building self-confidence in beginning writers. His students come from all levels of education, profession and age. Besides regular college students there are many teachers, retirees, office personnel and others wanting to sharpen their writing skills. Also, several high school seniors interested in writing who want to get a jump start in college enroll in these classes.

Many human behaviorist specialists recommend creative writing as a depression therapy to their patients. Hardcastle says through the years he had several students sent to his classes by councilors and doctors. And some of these students not only helped their problems but became publishing authors.

Hardcastle not only teaches the skills of writing but also methods for students to market their work. Because of its success, through the years, many out of state students have enrolled in Hardcastles programs.

As an author Hardcastle has published over a million words in national publications. He was also voted one of the highest honors given a member of the Oklahoma Writer Federation, a honorary life membership. This honor awarded to very few was given to Hardcastle for his years of leadership and many other achievements in the writing profession.

Hardcastles’ creative writing class is a three hour credit course. That will meet every Tuesday, 8-11 am in 120 Mitchell Hall. To enroll go to admissions in the Library Building or call 465-2361. Class number is journalism, fiction section 2993.

Classes start Jan. 12, 2004.