Participants in this course will learn how to generate ideas for short fiction and how to shape those ideas into highly condensed tales with finely rendered characters. The goal of this seminar is to deepen the participant’s understanding of the fundamentals of fiction in general and the critical elements of the short story in particular. We will cover both traditional and unconventional approaches to form and structure, as well as strategies for revision. Participants will also learn how and where to market their material.
CONTENT FOCUS:
Plot
Characterization
Writing Scenes
Exposition
Setting
Voice/Style
Viewpoint
Details & Imagery
Planning/Outlining
Dialogue
Pitfalls of Bad Stories
Theme and Symbol
Conflict/Dramatic Tension
Language & Rhythm
Narrative Credibility