Speculative Fiction Workshop: Worldbuilding - Remote!

Class Description

Ready to dive into a new world? In this class, we’ll discover the specific considerations of speculative fiction, from fabulism to solarpunk to epic fantasy and everything in between. Without shying away from questions of content and theme, we'll concentrate on the foundational story elements that give these genres that special something: unexplainable occurrences, new worlds and geographies, invented cultures and languages, genre tropes, and lots of other goodies. Class will include readings, discussion, exercises and brief workshops. Authors discussed may include Omar El Akkad, Isabel Yap, Annalee Newitz, Tomi Adeyemi, Jac Jemc, Silvia Moreno-Garcia, and more. Throughout all of this, we'll emphasize believability and consistency in world-building through a depth over breadth, holistic approach.

Worldbuilding work can be undertaken at any point in the writing process, though those investing in newer ideas or deep revision will get the most out of this class. Maybe you have a draft that could use consistency and fleshing out, or a series of detailed fantasy maps you're looking to expand on. You might have just a glimmer of an idea, or perhaps you've always wanted to write something fantastic (pun intended) but aren't sure where to start. Short story writers and novelists alike are welcome, as are students new to the genre. If you're excited to dive in to the mechanics of your world, you're in the right place.

Join us in Speculative Fiction Workshop: Story Journeys to extend your learning and build upon these foundations as you dive into your draft.

This class will be hosted using live Zoom meetings! You will be able to participate in class via Zoom videoconference from wherever you’re most comfortable. All you’ll need is a laptop or a phone! 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 via Zoom–no need to download anything or sign up for Zoom in advance! If you have questions about remote learning, please feel free to reach out to [email protected] for more information.

For a glimpse at how remote learning works, look no further than the deep Zoom discussion of writing and literature below:

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.