Mortal Combat! Writing the Fight Scene

A couple needs to decide who is at fault for some mishap. Two generals argue about whether or not to call off an attack. A teacher tries to convince a student to apply to their dream school, despite their fears. Fiction, as in life, sometimes hinges on big conversations with real stakes, moments that might come at the climax of a story and will change both the "combatants" forever. Consider Elizabeth Bennet's famous declaration: "There is a stubbornness about me that never can bear to be frightened at the will of others. My courage always rises at every attempt to intimidate me." How many great novels, like Pride and Prejudice, can be seen as a series of powerful arguments? This class will explore what makes a good argument in fiction writing. Participants can expect to walk away with at least one "fight scene," as well as ideas about how to revise in the future. This workshop is perfect for students working on a short story, novel, or even a screenplay. 

Class Format

This class will take place using Zoom videoconferencing. About 15 minutes before your class is scheduled to begin, you'll receive an email from your instructor with a link to join the class meeting!

Scholarship Information

Thanks to the excellent literary citizenship of our donors, scholarships are available for all GrubStreet classes. To apply, click the gray "APPLY FOR SCHOLARSHIP" button. In order to be considered for a scholarship, you must complete your application at least one week before the start date of a class. Please await our scholarship committee's decision before registering for the class. We cannot hold spots in classes, so the sooner you apply, the better. Scholarships cannot be applied retroactively.

For more more detailed information about GrubStreet scholarships, including how to contribute to scholarship funds for other students, click here.