Focus on the critical skills of setting and description in this reading- and exercise-based workshop designed to improve your technique in fiction and nonfiction
Learn how setting and description can support larger themes and ideas in your work
Practice giving attention to details that help you craft a rich and vivid world
Read and discuss examples of effective, evocative writing
Complete exercises that help you master descriptive writing techniques
About this course:
Setting and description are foundational to a story and can support larger themes well—if done thoughtfully with fresh and vivid language, attention to detail, implication, and perspective. They can, in effect, give one's characters a home or space to work within, as well as open up possibilities for deepening and expanding the scope of any story. In this reading and exercise-based class, we explore and practice descriptive writing and its power in establishing setting and mood while enlivening action and supporting symbolic relationships in fiction and creative nonfiction. Each week, we read sample fiction and creative nonfiction to identify how the content is influenced by the description of setting, action, events, and objects. By the end of class, you have improved skills in writing descriptively to enrich and enliven your work.
Enrollment limited to 15 students; early enrollment advised. Visitors not permitted. Internet access required.
This course meets in person at the designated class meeting time and location. Students must be present at the course meeting time as each student’s final grade may include scores for participation.
Please inform your instructor if you will miss a class meeting. You are responsible for any class information you missed. We suggest you arrange with a fellow classmate to share their notes when feasible.
Refund Deadline
No refunds after July 25, 2023
Course Requirements
Internet access required to retrieve course materials.
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