|
Algonkian Workshop Samples
The following are links to short fiction and novel workshop lectures taught in a single week session. A single session usually contains three to five lectures, and there are ten sessions in each workshop. These are partial examples of our model-and-context method. Our goal is to exhaustively teach the facts and craft with while editorially assisting the writer create publishable work. See our About Algonkian page for more information. Write us with any questions you might have at algonkian@webdelsol.com.
Art of Fiction I (short fiction)
- The End of Weakness (and cowboys) (lecture)
In this lecture we examine the story by Pam Houston, "Cowboys Are My Weakness." We dissect and analyze the story in various ways while taking note of specific craft elements. We ponder, ask questions. Students follow-up with more lectures in this session, then exercises, discussion, and work on a story-in-progress.
- Character, Craft, and Complication I (assignment)
New readings, analysis and discussion of characters in fiction, application of major story elements, character sketching. Students respond to discussion questions and writing assignments.
- On To Publication and Greatness (lecture)
A realistic pep talk. We encourage you to confidence. Does it work? Students follow-up with more lectures in this session, then exercises, discussion, and work on a story-in-progress.
Craft-in-Progress I (writing the novel)
- Enter The Major Complication (lecture)
We believe the best method for developing ongoing tension and rising action in the non-comedic novel is to employ drama--and what better way to practice and learn drama in the novel than via an Algonkian workshop? Students follow-up with more lectures in this session, then exercises, discussion, and work on a story-in-progress.
- Know Your Story, Know Your Characters (assignment)
Supplemental readings on characterization, discussions of readings, antagonist and protagonist sketching, minor character sketch. Students respond to discussion questions and writing assignments.
- No "V" Without Masking (lecture)
Here the student learns a few "cheating" techniques of the masters. How to get there from here? Invaluable plot stuff. Students follow-up with more lectures in this session, then exercises, discussion, and work on a story-in-progress.
= TOP OF PAGE = |
