Course: Crafting Short Stories The Art of Brevity

Course Description:

This course is designed for writers looking to master the craft of short story writing. Focusing on the unique challenges and opportunities presented by the short story format, participants will learn how to create impactful narratives within a limited word count. Through a combination of lectures, readings, workshops, and critiques, this course will explore the elements of effective short storytelling, from initial concept to final edit.

Course Goals:

• To understand the fundamentals of short story structure and pacing.
• To develop skills in creating compelling characters and settings in brief narratives.
• To explore various genres and styles within short story writing.
• To refine editing and revising techniques specific to short story crafting.
• To prepare a short story for submission to publications or contests.

Module 1: Introduction to Short Stories

• Lesson 1: The Evolution and Importance of Short Stories
• Lesson 2: Understanding the Elements of a Short Story
• Lesson 3: Analyzing Award-Winning Short Stories

Module 2: The Genesis of a Short Story

• Lesson 1: Finding and Developing Ideas
• Lesson 2: The Art of the Premise: Crafting Your Story's Core
• Lesson 3: Research and Inspiration Techniques

Module 3: Character and Setting in Brevity

• Lesson 1: Building Memorable Characters in Short Spaces
• Lesson 2: Creating Immersive Settings Quickly
• Lesson 3: Utilizing Minor Characters and Elements

Module 4: Plot and Structure

• Lesson 1: Mastering Short Story Arcs and Pacing
• Lesson 2: Exploring Different Structures and Formats
• Lesson 3: The Role of Conflict and Resolution

Module 5: The Power of Language

• Lesson 1: Economical Writing: Saying More with Less
• Lesson 2: Stylistic Elements and Voice
• Lesson 3: Dialogue and Subtext in Short Stories

Module 6: Genre-Specific Writing Techniques

• Lesson 1: Adapting to Genre: From Sci-Fi to Literary Fiction
• Lesson 2: Mixing Genres: The Hybrid Short Story
• Lesson 3: Utilizing Genre Conventions and Tropes

Module 7: Editing and Polishing

• Lesson 1: Self-Editing Techniques for Short Stories
• Lesson 2: Workshopping and Peer Feedback
• Lesson 3: Finalizing and Polishing Your Story

Module 8: Publishing Your Short Story

• Lesson 1: Understanding the Short Story Market
• Lesson 2: Submission Strategies: Magazines, Anthologies, and Competitions
• Lesson 3: Cover Letters and Submission Etiquette

Course Materials:

• A curated list of must-read short stories across genres.
• Writing and editing tools and templates.
• Access to a community platform for discussion and peer feedback.

Assessment and Projects:

• Weekly writing exercises focusing on different aspects of short story crafting.
• Mid-course submission of a complete draft for peer and instructor feedback.
• Final project involving the submission of a polished short story, ready for publication consideration.

Who Should Enroll:

This course is ideal for aspiring writers, novelists looking to explore the short story format, and anyone interested in honing their storytelling skills within the confines of short fiction. Whether you’re new to writing or seeking to expand your portfolio, this course offers the tools and insights needed to excel in short story writing.