Writing with Perspective: Character Building

Writing from a particular point of view can fall flat if the character does not have a background or motivations. In this class, students will look at excerpts of character voices written in different perspectives from writers like Haruki Murakami, N.K. Jemisin, George Saunders, and Amal El-Mohtar to understand the nuance of applying a character's motivations to their writing voice. Students will discuss inner and outer conflicts, and the importance of both to the plot of a story. Then students will have a chance to practice writing the same scene from different character perspectives. If time permits, they can then apply what they have learned to one of their own characters and stories. Writers who struggle to have a "voice" on the page, or make their character pop, will benefit from this class.

Class Format

This class will take place using Zoom videoconferencing. 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!

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.