Writing the Short Story
Wednesdays, beginning April 21
There’s a lot to be said for short fiction. Yes, it’s possible to complete a story in weeks or months. And it’s also true that short fiction has many publishing outlets.
But the short form is unique in its demands: how do we tell a compelling story with not a word wasted? The best stories are served by strong characters and tight plotting. But how do sentences and rhythms play a role? Voice and point of view?
The short story gives us an ideal venue for experimentation and delving deep into craft. Use this form to play with ideas and push your comfort zone, which can lead to new levels in all of your writing endeavors. Besides that, short stories are just plain fun to read and write.
This classes focuses on workshopping student work—an excellent method for writers who want to refine their ability to craft short stories. By examining our own stories, and those of other writers, we will look at ways language, plot and character intersect to present complex emotions and intense moments.
We’ll read published work together and each week, different student manuscripts will be discussed. Not only will you receive feedback on your work, you’ll also gain important analytical skills while critiquing the manuscripts of your peers.
Who should attend: Experienced writers of all levels and those who have taken Fiction I, Fiction II, or Creative Writing I are welcome. If you are uncertain, give us a call at 773.728.8441.
NOTE: This class may be used for Certificate Program students as one required elective.
About the Instructor: Lee Strickland’s fiction has appeared in Gettysburg Review, Sou’wester, Other Voices, StoryQuarterly, and River Oak Review. Her short stories have won an Illinois Arts Council grant and a “100 Distinguished Stories of the Year” notation in Best American Short Stories. Her non-fiction has appeared in academic journals and anthologies. She has an MFA from Warren Wilson College, and is currently at work on a novel.
Date/Time: Wednesdays, April 21 to June 9; 6:30pm-9pm
Price: Includes reading packet and instructor reviews.
Student (non-member): $380 / Member: $360