Traditionally, short stories are the place for writers to zero in on a particular setting, moment in time, theme, or character. They provide an avenue for close focus, unity of effect, and powerful impact in a condensed form. This focused exploration has produced many of literature’s greatest works. Writing short stories can help you explore new ideas freely and keep your creative process constantly evolving.

The primary goal of this course is to inspire you to create new works of short fiction. Each week, you will read two stories from selected writers and respond to a creative response based on their work. We will examine specifically the role that brevity plays in strengthening themes. We will study form to get you thinking about new ways to structure your stories.

For instance, if we read Mary Gaitskill’s “A Romantic Weekend,” the prompt might be to write a piece featuring only two characters, or a piece in which the characters are attempting to be honest with one another (and potentially failing). Prompts will never simply ask you to mirror a writer’s style, as this could be limiting.

We will also read essays around creative writing theory in class. During class meetings, there will be an opportunity for you to read from your homework and receive on-the-spot feedback. You will receive in-class feedback on your drafts from me and your peers, and I will offer perspectives on where you can take your pieces next.

One goal of this class is to break writers away from the typical three-act structure we are taught. There are many different forms in which to write fiction, and short stories provide an opportunity to experiment in those forms. Your homework assignments will revolve around six story forms: kishotenketsu, spiral, map, list, and choice. Each class will provide explanation and examples of these different forms. Every week will require approximately two hours of reading and writing.

Who This Course is For:

This course is for fiction writers interested in exploring new ways to work in the short form. It is open to all levels. 

Learning and Writing Goals

Learning Goals

In this course, you will learn: 

• Different prose forms and how to incorporate them in storytelling.
• Styles from a variety of writers.
• How to structure beginnings and endings.
• How to balance scene and summary in short work.
• How to begin stories based on prompts and give on-the-spot feedback.
• A better understanding of writing prose through reading contemporary work.

Writing Goals

In this course, you will: 

• Begin 5-6 new short stories.

Zoom Schedule

We will meet on Zoom on Thursdays from 7:30-9:30 PM Eastern. 

Weekly Syllabus

Why Take a Short Story Writing Course with Writers.com?

• We welcome writers of all backgrounds and experience levels, and we are here for one reason: to support you on your writing journey.
• Small groups keep our online writing courses lively and intimate.
• Work through your weekly lectures, course materials, and writing assignments at your own pace.
• Share and discuss your work with fellow writers in a supportive course environment.
• Award-winning instructor Elwin Cotman will offer you direct, personal feedback and suggestions on every assignment you submit.

Click the Enroll Now button below, enter your details on the Checkout page,
and reserve your spot in the course.

$445.00Enroll Now

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