Novel Revision Series: Image Systems - Remote!

An image system is a set of related descriptive details adding up to a resonant constellation of meaning within a story, novel, or memoir. Image systems are an important but infrequently discussed technique for crafting subliminally powerful stories. Hidden patterns that appeal to the deep-rooted human affinity for unity and order, image systems can contribute much to a gripping and emotionally satisfying reading experience. But they must be organic to the story in question, and they must be used with great subtlety and skill. In this practical, interactive craft talk, we’ll use passages from modern and classic novelists to illustrate the uses of image systems, and we'll discuss ways to recognize and harness material that may already exist within your own work-in-progress to increase its thematic resonance and impact. 

Part of GrubStreet's Novel Revision Series, led by Tim Weed and designed for those who have either finished or are nearing completion of a novel draft. Take every class in the series or simply choose the craft topics that are relevant to the revision challenges you face with your novel in progress. Fall classes include:

• Novel Revision Series: Image Systems
• Novel Revision Series: Backstory and Flashback

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:

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.