TEEN Summer: Writing Horror that Runs Deep (REMOTE)

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.

Class takeaways:

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

Note About Our NEW Class Format: 

We’ve made our remote classes more flexible than ever — with plenty of optional portions designed to allow for screen breaks — while still keeping us connected as a writing community. Learn more. 

How Remote Learning works: 

This class will be hosted remotely! You will be able to participate in class via Zoom video conference 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! 

For parents registering their teens: 

*Note: Parents/guardians must complete this permission form online if your teen is under 18.* Unlike previous forms, you only need to fill this 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 the form, registrations could be voided and the cancellation policy will apply. If the student is 18, simply let us know at [email protected]. 

*If you are registering on behalf of your teen, add their email information in the “For a Friend or Child?” field on the right-hand side of the screen before you check out. This will send them a direct link and reminder to create their own profile with GrubStreet. 

(After adding the class to your cart, click "Checkout" and click “Add” next to “For a Friend or Child?” on the right-hand side to fill in their email. This is an easy way of linking the class to your child and encourages them to create their own account.)