New Class Starting February 28: The Structure of a Story

Course Description: This course is for writers of narrative nonfiction including memoirs, narrative poetry, and fiction, and it explores all possible ways of telling of a story so that the writer can choose the best way for their particular project. In the course of this discussion, we will cover plot, characters, backstory, the difference between showing and telling, how to keep the interest of the reader, pitfalls to avoid in story, and much more. 
 
The course is structured as a workshop with plenty of time to read your work and get feedback on it and there will be homework assigned each week. 

Week One: It’s all copy. Where to find stories and how to go from idea to an extended narrative without stalling. All types of story structures will be discussed and various ways of telling a story will, too, including a “mixed media” approach. 
 
Week Two: Characters and Back Story. (Even if you are the main character, and we know we are all characters. 😊 ) Showing versus telling, how to do it, and why it is important). 
 
Week Three: Plot, Inciting Incidents, Climax, Falling and Rising Action, Resolutions/Denouement.  
 
Week Four: Pitfalls to avoid. Specifics to know if you want to be published, including the nuts and bolts of formatting. 
 
Week Five: The wrap-up. Bringing characters and plot, description, dialogue, and all story components together from beginning to end in a way that keeps the reader engaged.  

Starts live and online February 28 at 4 p.m. PST to 6 p.m. PST. and runs every Tuesday until the end of March. 

Cost: $129 if you register before February 20. $179 if you register after. 

Click here to reserve your space.