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.
In-class 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.
Related program(s)
This course is available at the following time(s) and location(s):
| Section | Session(s) | Date/time* | Campus | Instructor(s) | Cost | Registration |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| CPW604-VA11371 | 6 | Saturdays Sep 21 Oct 5 and 19 Nov 2, 16, and 30, 2013 10 am–2 pm |
Van | Caroline Adderson | $480 | Register |
| CPW604-SU11411 | 6 | Saturdays Jan 18 Feb 1 and 15 Mar 1, 15, and 29, 2014 10 am–2 pm |
Surrey City Centre Library | Caroline Adderson | $480 | TBA |
* This course involves 24 instructional hours.
What will I 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
How will I learn?
- Lectures
- Class discussions
- Demonstrations
- In-class exercises
- Extra reading
- Independent take-home assignments
- Group assignments
How will I be evaluated?
Your grade will be based on your participation and assignments.
Textbooks and learning materials
The following textbooks are required for this course. You may purchase them from the SFU Bookstore or at your local or online bookstore:
Munro, Alice. Runaway, Penguin, 2004. ISBN: 0-14-305071-0.
Gardner, John. The Art of Fiction; Vintage, NY. ISBN: 0-67-97340-3.