Mon, August 11th – Friday, August 15th

10:00-12:00 EST

Online or In Person 

Writing a short story is no easier than writing a novel, in fact, it can be more challenging as writers must hone their story across only a few pages rather than a few hundred. Over five days this summer, we will explore brevity in storytelling and efficiency in emotion and plot, ensuring every word and action counts. Using examples from classic and contemporary writers, we’ll consider the essential craft elements of short story writing in a workshop environment, where each participant will have the opportunity to share their work and offer considerate feedback on others.

We’ll begin on Monday with the foundations of short story writing and how to begin. Each day during the week, we’ll take a detailed look at a key craft element in short story writing. Starting with Character Development and working through Setting & Atmosphere, Plot & Structure, Dialogue & Voice, and Theme & Symbolism.

You can work on a single story the whole week or start a new one every day, but please come prepared to write and share your pages with the group.

In this 5-day workshop you can expect:

• Respectful in-class discussion of the participants’ material
• Discussion of a craft element in short story fiction writing, such as character, structure, plot, pacing, and dialogue
• Thoughtful feedback and encouragement on your work in progress