It has often been said that character is story, and developing dynamic characters is never more of a challenge than in a short story. How do you show a potential for change in such a small space? How do you make a character's life meaningful? Students will learn techniques for keeping characters front and center, developing characters that seem to have a life beyond the page, and choosing the right characters for their plots. They will also practice each of these core concepts in their own writing.

Material covered relates to modern writing theory, and discusses the structure of recently published works, and is suitable for students writing in all genres, including both commercial and literary fiction. The teaching method accommodates the needs of students who want to shape their work for publication, as well as those who are writing to create an heirloom, or for personal fulfilment. The instructor has published in both science fiction and mystery, and critiques manuscript partials in a number of genres for major writing conferences.

This is a hands-on class, with writing assignments (in-class and as homework) and reading assignments from 50 Great Short Stories (edited by Milton Crane). Students will have the opportunity to have samples of their work critiqued each week.

Class Textbook: 50 Great Short Stories https://www.amazon.com/Fifty-Great-Stories-Bantam-Classics/dp/0553277456/ref=sr_1_4?

NO CLASS Monday, May 26, 2025, due to Memorial Day.