It is a common misconception that writing a short story is easier than crafting a longer form piece of fiction: though they have fewer words, as a writer you have less time and space to capture the imagination of your readers with memorable characters, a gripping plot, and dialogue that sings.
But that doesn’t mean it’s impossible; in fact, as this practical two-day workshop with award-winning author Stuart Evers will demonstrate, you may already have the necessary tools to begin your own stories: if you have the curiosity, the drive, and the application, you’ll be able to spot the genesis of a great story.
Over two days, put your creativity into action and learn about the key elements of an impactful story, from point of view and narrative tension, to building conflict and then resolving it. Under Stuart’s expert guidance, you will be privy to some essential writing techniques that can be put into practice instantly, how to use prompts to develop your skills, and how to begin crafting your short story from scratch.
As well as building on tech, you will also unlock a vault of confidence that will culminate in you writing your very own short story during the class, and will ultimately see you continue developing your newfound skills long after the workshop has ended.
Course content
The key elements of a great short story
Writing techniques that can be put into practice instantly
Finding your voice as a writer
Using prompts to develop your skills
Creating a storyline from scratch
Character development
Choosing the right point of view for your story
Building narrative tension, mood and pace
Story conflict - and resolution
Examples of great short stories - and what makes them work
Practical writing session - write your own 500+ word story during the class
Q&A
You will be sent a link to the webinar 1hr before the start time of 10am (GMT).
Tutor profile
Stuart Evers’ first book, Ten Stories About Smoking, won the London Book Award in 2011, and his highly acclaimed novel, If This is Home, followed in 2012. Your Father Sends His Love (2016) was shortlisted for the Edge Hill Short Story Prize and has been praised by the likes of Teju Cole, Ian Rankin and Eimear McBride. His most recent publication, our this year, is The Blind Light. His work has appeared in three editions of the Best British Short Stories, as well as Granta, The White Review, Prospect, and on Radio 4.
You will be sent a link to the webinar 1hr before the start time of 10am (GMT).
Details
Dates: Saturday 23 – Sunday 24 January 2021
Times: 10am-1pm (GMT)
Price: £150 (plus £6.51 booking fee)
Event capacity: 45
Information on Guardian Masterclasses
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All Guardian Masterclasses are fully accessible - but please contact us if you have any queries or concerns.
Returns policy
Once a purchase is complete we will not be able to refund you where you do not attend or if you cancel your event booking. Please see our terms and conditions for more information on our refund policy.
