CPW604
Fiction Series for the Weekend Student
Fiction writing is a blend of art and technique. In this intensive six-session course, you’ll find yourself aspiring to both. Using examples from contemporary masters, we will explore some of the key elements of fine literary fiction: beginnings, characterization, structure, pacing, types of prose, transitions, and endings.
Discussion and writing exercises will follow lectures. We’ll also consider the writing you produce in between classes. You will aim to significantly improve an existing piece of fiction, or, if you’re a new writer, gain the confidence you need to produce your first piece of work. The final class includes a formal reading.
Overview
Location: Vancouver
Duration: 6 Saturdays
Tuition: $567
Upcoming Offerings
- Sat, Jan 25, 10:00 a.m. – 2:00 p.m. Pacific Time (class/lecture)
- Sat, Feb 8, 10:00 a.m. – 2:00 p.m. Pacific Time (class/lecture)
- Sat, Feb 22, 10:00 a.m. – 2:00 p.m. Pacific Time (class/lecture)
- Sat, Mar 8, 10:00 a.m. – 2:00 p.m. Pacific Time (class/lecture)
- Sat, Mar 22, 10:00 a.m. – 2:00 p.m. Pacific Time (class/lecture)
- Sat, Apr 5, 10:00 a.m. – 2:00 p.m. Pacific Time (class/lecture)
- Sat, Sep 20, 10:00 a.m. – 2:00 p.m. Pacific Time (class/lecture)
- Sat, Oct 4, 10:00 a.m. – 2:00 p.m. Pacific Time (class/lecture)
- Sat, Oct 18, 10:00 a.m. – 2:00 p.m. Pacific Time (class/lecture)
- Sat, Nov 1, 10:00 a.m. – 2:00 p.m. Pacific Time (class/lecture)
- Sat, Nov 15, 10:00 a.m. – 2:00 p.m. Pacific Time (class/lecture)
- Sat, Nov 29, 10:00 a.m. – 2:00 p.m. Pacific Time (class/lecture)
What you will learn
By the end of the course, you will be able to do the following:
- Write an effective fictional opening, scene, and ending
- Define the character arc
- Differentiate between plot and structure
- Create believable fictional characters and write realistic dialogue
- Produce examples of each of the four prose types
- Incorporate a symbol into a short narrative
- Give a reading of a selection of work produced during the class
- Self-edit a selected work
- Establish a realistic writing schedule
- Apply the techniques you learn in the class to substantially improve a work of fiction
Note: This is a techniques course, not a workshop. While you will have opportunities to share examples of your work, the instructor will not provide written feedback.
How you will learn and be evaluated
- Lectures
- Discussions
- Demonstrations
- In-class exercises
- Extra reading
- Independent assignments
- Group assignments
You will be evaluated based on your participation and assignments.
Learning Materials
Course fees do not include textbooks. We recommend you purchase your textbook as soon as you’ve registered. We will provide additional course materials online. We encourage you to purchase your book from your local independent bookstore or the source listed below.
Required textbook:
Munro, Alice. Runaway, Penguin Canada, 2004. ISBN: 0-14-305071-0. Available for purchase from publisher.