Fiction 101: Telling Stories, Inventing Worlds

“In fiction, there are no limits to how far we can push our characters and the worlds where they reside,” says instructor Ann Guy. “This freedom allows us to explore every facet of experience, past, present, or future, on or off the planet. Where will your imagination take you?” 

In this 5-week class, we'll learn how to build engaging fictional worlds, whether we’re aiming for the fantasy of JRR Tolkien or the “reality” of Jhumpa Lahiri. We’ll read and discuss captivating short fiction by Charles Yu, Cormac McCarthy, Ann Patchett, and Kazuo Ishiguro, with an eye for how these writers employ craft techniques like character development, setting, imagery, and scene. To put our discoveries into practice, we’ll do prompt-driven writing exercises during class. 

“Optional out-of-class assignments will help you keep your creative momentum thriving between classes,” says Ann. “There will also be opportunities to share your writing with the group and to receive light, supportive feedback.”

By the end of 5 weeks, you'll be equipped with a deeper understanding of the craft essentials for compelling fiction and how to use both your logic and imagination to conjure fictional worlds. You’ll walk away with a collection of fresh story ideas and fledgling drafts.

About The Writing Salon's In-Person Classes

Before your class meets, you'll receive an email from The Writing Salon with more information about your class. If you have any questions about in-person learning, please don't hesitate to reach out to us at hello@writingsalons.com.