Writing Political Essays with Jennifer Mills

Learn to write powerful, challenging and compelling essays

Join Jennifer Mills as she shares the insights she has gained in two decades of practice as a writer who balances literature and activism, the personal and the political.

This course explores political essay writing, from polemic and opinion to criticism, analysis and provocation. Beginning with what it means to be political—looking at location and dynamics of power and privilege—the course will then delve into the details of essay writing, including structure and editing. You will learn how to take on a complex topic, design an inquiry, research and gather details, and find the central question that links it all together.

You will:
  • Gain confidence in tackling challenging subjects
  • Explore the power of political language
  • Find your central question and begin your inquiry
  • Learn to be creative with your essay structure
  • Learn to write compelling opening and closing paragraphs
  • Learn how to balance writing and activism
  • Finish the course with a completed draft of an essay

The course is designed to take you 5-6 hours in total, and can be completed in short stages at your convenience. Scroll down to see the full course curriculum and a list of frequently asked questions.

KYD Members receive a 10% discount on this course and all other KYD online courses throughout the year. Become a member here, or contact [email protected] for more information.

Want to buy a course for a friend? Purchase a gift voucher here.


Your Instructor


Jennifer Mills
Jennifer Mills

Jennifer Mills is an author, editor and critic based on Kaurna Yarta (Adelaide). Her latest novel, The Airways (2021), was longlisted for the Miles Franklin award and shortlisted for an Aurealis Award for Horror. Dyschronia (2018) was shortlisted for the Miles Franklin, Aurealis (for Science Fiction), and Adelaide Festival Awards for Literature. Mills is a widely published essayist, an advocate for the rights of writers and artists, a MEAA freelance delegate and a current Director of the Australian Society of Authors.


Course Curriculum


  Welcome
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  Part One: What is a Political Essay?
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  Part Two: Research and Writing
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Frequently Asked Questions


When does the course start and finish?
The course starts now and never ends! It is a completely self-paced online course - you decide when you start and when you finish. We encourage you to approach this material not just as lessons to be finished once and for all, but also as a collection of resources to which you can return time and again.
How long do I have access to the course?
Forever! After enrolling, you have unlimited lifetime access to this course - across any and all devices you own.
Does the teacher provide feedback?
No. If you are interested in receiving feedback on your project, we encourage you to check out KYD's Manuscript Assessment Service: https://killyourdarlings.com.au/shop/manuscript-assessments/
How do I access my course?
All our online workshops are hosted at workshops.killyourdarlings.com.au, via the Teachable platform. You can access your workshop by logging in at that link, or by following the link in your welcome email when you enrol. Please note that as the Teachable platform is a separate website to KYD you will need to create a new account, and will not be able to use your KYD login details.
I'm a KYD member. How do I receive my 10% discount?
Click on 'Enrol in course for $169'. Enter the coupon code that was emailed to you when you became a KYD member at checkout, underneath the tutor's photo.
What if I have another question?
You can email us at [email protected] and we'll be happy to help!

Get started now!