Crafting Scene

Class Description

Scenes are the building blocks of story. If we can master crafting scenes, then we can write the chapter, the story, the novel. In this course we will learn to hold our scenes accountable. What is the scene seeking to accomplish in terms of advancing plot or developing character? Where is it succeeding and how is it falling short in terms of setting, character, pacing, plot and dialogue? What is the narrative arc of the scene and how does it contribute to the larger story we are telling? How can we craft the connective tissue between scenes?

Each week we will explore a craft lesson using a published work as a model, as well as write a new scene/revise a scene from an existing project. Over the course, each student will also have a chance to be workshopped, during which you will receive detailed feedback from each of your peers and the instructor. By the end of the course students will have produced six scenes; these might be part of one larger project or distinct pieces around which six stories will crystallize.

This course is designed both for those of us grappling with existing projects, as well as students wanting to generate a lot of new material, and is appropriate for both novel and short fiction writers.

Class Format

This is an Online: On-Demand class that will take place on our asynchronous online learning platform, Wet.Ink. Weekly lessons and assignments open each Wednesday. Students will receive an invitation to Wet Ink before 5pm on the first day of class! All video lectures for Online: On-Demand courses have closed captioning available. To enable, click "cc" on the toolbar of each video lecture.

*NOTE that while our handy dandy "Schedule" tab states a 6-7pm class time, there are actually no live meetings for this class! Weekly lessons and assignments open each Wednesday. Students will receive an invitation to Wet Ink, our online class platform, before 5pm on the first day of class.

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.