Novel Study Hall: Narrative Techniques

In this six-week class, we’ll explore an array of acclaimed books in order to learn more about the many narrative techniques that can be employed in writing novels, while also working to improve and expand our own writing projects. Each week we’ll read excerpts from two novels (in a variety of genres) and then discuss these readings in class, focusing on such topics as 1st-person versus 3rd-person narratives, narrative tone, multiple time-frames, and even the epistolary format. The authors we’ll read include Tash Aw, Octavia E. Butler, John Williams, Elizabeth Gilbert, and Ernest J. Gaines.
 
Students will also write a short piece in connection with each pair of readings, using the excerpts and provided prompts as jumping-off points to experiment with different narrative techniques in their own writing. These pieces can be related to the students’ larger projects or stand alone as short stories, and we will share and discuss them in class each week.

This class will take place in-person at our Center for Creative Writing in Boston's Seaport neighborhood. 

Covid-19 Update: 

GrubStreet's space will be mask optional when Boston's Covid-19 Community Level is low or medium. When the Covid-19 Community Level is high, our space will require masks. Please check GrubStreet's Covid-19 page for the latest info on masking and Community Levels before visiting in-person.

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