Class Description
For many writers, writing a novel is the ultimate challenge, and in this class, we'll work together to build the skills and endurance necessary to complete a novel draft. Whether you struggle with making plot happen or sussing out character motivation—or simply finding time to get your butt in the chair and fingers on the keyboard, this class will provide guidance and structure in order to support your dreams of getting words on the page.
Over the course of six weeks, students will generate new material each week based on prompts for in-class and at-home writing. For inspiration and guidance, we'll read one novel (Claire Jiménez's PEN/Faulkner Award-winning What Happened to Ruthy Ramirez) over the course of the class, using the text to discuss elements of fiction such as point of view, dialogue, scene building, conflict, and surprise. Writers will have the chance to share work with their peers, but our focus will be on generative writing and mutual support rather than critique or workshopping. This class is suitable for writers at all stages of the novel-writing process—whether you're just sitting down to page one or well on your way to a draft, you'll have plenty to learn from our time together.
Driving to the center? For evening or weekend classes, we recommend SP+ Parking at 45 Binford Street for the most affordable parking around. It's about a 10-minute walk to GrubStreet and offers a flat rate of:
$8 after 4pm Monday-Friday
$5 all day Saturday-Sunday
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 in-person at our Center for Creative Writing in Boston's Seaport neighborhood.
Covid-19 Update:
GrubStreet's space will be mask-optional when Boston's Covid-19 Community Level is low or medium. When the Covid-19 Community Level is high, our space will require masks. Please check GrubStreet's Covid-19 page for the latest info on masking and Community Levels before visiting in person.
Space Accessibility:
Our space is ADA accessible with automatic door openers, ADA-compliant restrooms, desk and table spacing, braille signage, and elevator. Our classrooms can be equipped with ALS for hard of hearing individuals. We cannot guarantee a scent-free environment. For more accessibility requests, please contact our Operations team at [email protected] or (617) 695-0075.