Whether you have an idea for a novel or are on your nth revision of one, this workshop will help advanced writers learn both basic and more advanced approaches to structuring the novel, as well as build a deep understanding of the ways structure helps writers build emotional resonance in the reader. We'll break down three-act structure, the differences between premise and plot, reinforcing theme with form, and building out an amorphous idea into a solid premise, as well as touch on nonlinear approaches to structure. This eight-week course will include a mix of lectures, readings, exercises, and class workshops designed to get you to ask the right questions of a novel idea, premise, or draft in order to let your ideas guide your structural approach and to carry that awareness forward into your drafting or revision process.
This class will include both a workshop and a lecture component. Manuscript excerpts of novels or short fiction will be accepted, with an understanding that lectures will focus on structural aspects of long form fiction, some of which will also be applicable to the short story.
Prerequisite: At least one intermediate or advanced class and permission from the instructor. To apply, please email a writing sample (three to five pages) and a brief description of your workshop history to [email protected]. If your application is accepted, you will receive a password to register for the class.
