Class Description
There is no one right way to write a novel, but there are guidelines and tools that can help you do it your way... but better. This seminar will offer "best practices" for understanding the craft of fiction. Through the use of in-class exercises, discussion, and lecture, we’ll work on clarifying the basic tenets of writing fiction by examining plot vs. story, dramatic questions in novels, the central beliefs and premises on which novels rest, point of view, characterization, tension, crucibles, dialogue, methods of outlining, structure, and more. Students can bring the first page of their novel—though this is not mandatory. All participants' questions, from the burning (how to use backstory?) to the mundane (what is the usual page count?) are a vital part of the seminar.
The seminar is meant for those in the beginning stages of writing fiction. Students should bring writing implements (whether a computer, pen and paper, ink and quill pen) and index cards.
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.
This class will take place using Zoom videoconferencing. Please visit the Resources tab to access the video-conference link.
Zoom Participation:
Students are not required to turn their camera on, but are encouraged to participate any way they feel comfortable through functions such as the live chat, emoji reactions, and unmuting the microphone. Learn more about using Zoom here.
Zoom Accessibility:
We ask that instructors enable closed captioning and send a transcript of the session after class. You can also enable closed captioning at any time during the meeting. If your instructor forgets to send the transcript, just send ’em an email!