Teen Summer: Writing Horror With Real Emotion

Class Description:

It's been said that horror is the "oldest and strongest emotion." But good horror fiction can convey a wealth of emotions beyond simple raw terror. The cosmic horror of the 1920s pulps is shot through a sense of wonder. Stephen King's horror is often laced with a kind of nostalgia for childhood (even while taking a clear-eyed view of its downsides). Modern horror like Caitlin Kiernan's The Red Tree can convey not just dread but longing and regret. And some horror fiction, such as Matt Ruff's Lovecraft Country and Ruthanna Emrys's Winter Tide, can even explore feelings of hope. / In this class, we will read both classic and contemporary horror with scares that convey a broader range of emotions than simple dread. We will build strategies for characterization, setting, and plot that illuminate how these writers use horror elements to achieve their ends. For writers age 13 - 18 ONLY. This class was previously listed as, Writing Horror: "The Oldest and Strongest Emotion."

Takeaway:

Students will leave the course with at least a partial draft of a new horror story—and a plan for how to complete it.

Class Format:

This class will take place in-person at our Center for Creative Writing in Boston's Seaport neighborhood. Students who need an MBTA pass to commute to class and/or a lunch stipend can request one using this form. Snacks, pens, notebooks and chromebooks (limited amount) will be provided!

Space Accessibility:

Our space is fully ADA accessible with automatic door openers, ADA compliant restrooms, desk and table spacing, braille signage, and elevator. Our classrooms can be equipped with ALS for hard of hearing individuals. We cannot guarantee a scent-free environment. For more accessibility requests, please contact our Operations team at [email protected] or (617) 695-0075.

Covid-19 Updates:

GrubStreet is a mask-friendly space. When our community Covid risk level is low or medium, masks are optional. We are currently at a high community risk level, so masking is required. Learn more about our Covid-19 Policy here.

Registration Instructions:

• If the student is under 18, parents/guardians must complete this permission form online. You only need to fill this form out ONE TIME, NOT for every class. If you cannot remember whether you have already filled it out, please email [email protected] and we will check for you! If you do not complete this form, your registrations could be voided and the cancellation policy will apply.
• If the student is 18, simply let us know by emailing [email protected].
• If you are registering on behalf of a student, add their email in the “For a Friend or Child?” field on the right-hand side of the screen at check out. This will send them a direct link and reminder to create their own profile with GrubStreet.
• Please register with your preferred name :)

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***If you have any questions or concerns, please email us at [email protected]. We’re looking forward to writing with you this summer!***