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 one new scene/revise a scene from an existing project. We will provide a brief summary of how the scene fits into the larger project to provide context to our peers and ensure we are clear about what the scene is trying to do. Over the course, each student will have a chance to be workshopped, during which you will receive a detailed, one-page workshop letter from each of your peers and the instructor. By the end of the course students will have produced and polished six complete scenes; these might be part of one larger project or distinct pieces around which six stories will crystalize.

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!

*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 more detailed information about GrubStreet scholarships, including how to contribute to scholarship funds for other students, click here.