Workshop Descriptions
Narrative Structure
In this
retreat, we will consider the organizing principles that guide unified
structure and narrative development in long and short fiction: chronology, narrative arc, order of
incidents/scenes, foreshadowing, backstory, etc. Participant writing will be used as examples.
Setting/Description
This retreat
will consider the contexts in which a story occurs: place, time, environs, history--too much or
not enough? The value of sensory
language in providing detail; the avoidance of clichéd, superficial, or generic
description.
Characterization
This retreat
focuses on the principles and practices of creating believable and consistent
characters through biography, physicality, action and reaction, dialogue, inner
thoughts and flashbacks, familial circumstances, and possessions (among other
devices).
Point of
View/Perspective
In this
retreat, we review and practice different possibilities for establishing whose
story it is (and why and how): The
peculiar nature of the first-person; the ambiguities of second; keeping third-
person consistent (or not). Participants
will practice a variety of perspectives.
Mechanics
of Revision
Back to the
basics. This retreat examines the
methods authors use to create memorable literature: paragraph unity and juxtaposition, sentence
structure and complexity, word choice and placement, voice, tone and symbolism,
etc. Emphasis may vary according to
participant submissions.
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