Writing the Novel
PURPOSE
In this course we will study and then practice the art of writing a novel. Through the study of several novels, we will examine style, technique, structure, and more. We will read essays on the practice and science of novel writing. We will write our own chapters and outlines and critique those of others. The following are expected learning outcomes:
A deeper understanding of the degree of effort needed to construct a novel.
A refined personal aesthetic that can guide you through your project.
An increased understanding of the value of peer and other feedback.
A realistic sense of the publishing world.
ASSIGNMENTS
Weekly responses to readings
Novel chapters
Novel outlines
Presentations of chapters and outlines for peer reviewing
TEXTS UNDER CONSIDERATION
One Hundred Years of Solitude, Gabriel Garcia-Marquez
Catch-22, Joseph Heller
Love Medicine, Louise Erdrich
The Things They Carried, Tim O’Brien
Tripmaster Monkey, Maxine Hong Kingston
The Brief, Wondrous World of Oscar Wao, Junot Diaz
In the Skin of a Lion, Michael Ondaatje
A finalized (shorter) list will be available in early May.)