Muse 2020 Seminar Series: Perfecting Page One - Remote!

You know the great opening lines: Ishmael, Manderley, the last camel. Why do those work? And how can you create one for your own novel? How can you set the proper expectations for the story to come, and make every word work? How do you avoid info dumps, dreaded exposition and book-killing backstory? How do you create a first page that will entice editors and enchant readers? (If they don't love the first one, they'll never get to the second one.)

In this class, suitable for any genre, we will dissect and analyze acclaimed first lines and opening paragraphs, and reveal the writing secrets these brilliant examples offer.

Muse 2020 Seminar Series

Due to our presenters’ enthusiasm and generosity, we’re excited to bring several popular Muse & the Marketplace 2020 sessions to a screen near you! Each session will be presented as a rich, informative lecture with a brief Q&A. When you register you’ll get access for real-time instruction via Zoom, and the ability to view the seminar later.

If you register for 7 or more Muse 2020 Seminars, you’ll receive a $30 off code for your next GrubStreet class. Click here for more information and a list of Muse 2020 Seminars!

This class will be hosted using live Zoom meetings! You will be able to participate in class via Zoom videoconference from wherever you’re most comfortable. All you’ll need is a laptop or a phone! 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 via Zoom–no need to download anything or sign up for Zoom in advance! If you have questions about remote learning, please feel free to reach out to [email protected] for more information.

For a glimpse at how remote learning works, look no further than the deep Zoom discussion of writing and literature below: