About This Course
The author W. Somerset Maugham supposedly once said, “There are three rules for writing a novel. Unfortunately, no one knows what they are.” Even if you can’t know the exact rules, you can at least begin to unlock the mysteries of this enduringly popular form of fiction.
This course is divided into two parts. In the first, we’ll examine how to control narrative and psychic distance, how to launch a story quest with an inciting incident, and how to smooth out your prose by using seamless transitions and managing the pace of unfolding events. In part two, we’ll cover how to structure a novel in five focuses. You’ll look at how to use strong scenes to manage the progress of your hero’s quest through increasing levels of risk, past a point of no return and on to reversals that seem both surprising and inevitable.
Designed For
Intermediate and advanced writers of fiction who have a novel or collection of connected stories underway.
What You’ll Learn
- How to recognize and control narrative and psychic distance
- Ways to create smooth transitions between scene and sequel
- Techniques for managing fictional time and controlling narrative pace
Get Hands-On Experience
- Workshop at least two stories or two chapters of your novel
- Generate 50 to 100 pages of smooth prose and a structural plan for your book
Our Enrollment Coaches Are Here to Help
Connect with an enrollment coach to learn more about this offering. Or if you need help finding the right certificate, specialization or course for you, reach out to explore your options.
This program is intended for professional development and is not designed to meet educational requirements for professional licensure or certification.
