Department of English

This critique/discussion course deals with basic techniques of fiction writing. Classic and contemporary works of fiction are used as examples for analysis, though the workshop centers on writing produced by class members. Short writing assignments help to focus on particular problems of voice, point of view, character development, and structure, but these are mostly optional, and such technical considerations are addressed and reviewed through stories, sketches, and revisions produced in the course of the semester. Story length varies, although 25 pages overall is common. Individual conferences are part of the course and can be arranged on Mondays and Tuesdays. Students interested in the course should submit writing samples to D. Cavallo, 119 Bennett Hall, and include social security number, class status, and phone number. The class is limited to 12-15 students. Students should submit samples by Nov. 27th, and will be informed about permits by Dec. 11th.

Note: Students who wish to major in English with a concentration in Creative Writing should contact Greg Djanikian immediately (djanikia@english). This course may be used as the "gateway" to the Creative Writing concentration (students must receive an "A" here and then be admitted formally into the concentration). More information about the creative writing option is available in the English Web: look under "Undergraduate Program Information" or click on the "Requirements" button at the top of many "pages" in this Web.