J298 Introduction to Narrative Writing

In this workshop, we’ll work on overall story architecture, studying and practicing the fundamental structural features of narrative. We will also scrutinize the sequencing, shaping, and pacing of paragraphs; sentence construction, rhythm, and clarity; word choice; even punctuation. We’ll pay particular attention to such basic storytelling elements as the tease and promise; voice, tone, and point of view; images, figures, motifs, and themes; telling detail and rich description; characters, scenes, and scene-by-scene development; signposts, dramatic tension, turning points and transitions, and overall narrative line.