Novel Intensive

Do you have a great idea for a novel but don’t know where to start? Or maybe you’re well on your way, but lately your manuscript has become a flabby mass of pages? Either way, this course will whip that novel into shape. Over the course of four days, we will focus on the elements of craft necessary to sustain a book-length narrative, from structure to scene, character arcs to subplots. We will read excerpts from a range of published novels, pick them apart as writers, and apply these lessons to our own projects. The course will include substantial in-class writing time and an optional homework assignment every evening and will culminate in a one-on-one meeting with the instructor to discuss your opening chapter and outline. Please note that the same craft issues also pertain to memoir, so this class is also open to writers of creative nonfiction. Writing a novel is a long, unpredictable journey, but you will end this course with a new set of tools to navigate your way.