Yes, I'm teaching it again.
For six Tuesdays beginning March 31, I'll be teaching Storytelling
Techniques for Fiction Writers at my favorite indie bookstore, Vroman's
in Pasadena, CA.
To register, please call Vroman's at 626-449-5320.
Here's a description of the class:
Writing a compelling story is about
revealing the world of your protagonist in a way that keeps the reader
engaged and eager to know what happens next. In this class, I will explore how to “show, don't tell” and breathe
life into the page.
The principles and techniques I will cover include:
* establishing character goals and desires
* revealing internal and external conflict (obstacles to achieving those goals)
* choosing a point of view (first-person, third-person, or omniscient) that best serves your story
* unfolding events in immediate scene and narrative summary
* maintaining suspense and tension
* engaging the senses
* evoking emotions
* using metaphors and similes judiciously
* writing effective and engaging dialogue
* getting into and out of flashbacks
The class will include explanations and examples of these principles
plus in-class writing exercises that put the principles into practice.
If time permits, I will read out the exercises students
wish to share and offer comments and suggestions. This is a safe and
encouraging environment in which there is no peer critiquing or
commenting.
Suggested (but not required) text: Stein on Writing by Sol Stein.
The fee for this class is $350 plus tax. To register, please call Vroman's at (626) 449-5320.