Craft Intensive: Story [Maria Semple]

As novelists, we must immediately grab the reader and not let go until the very last page. But how? During these five craft talks, we’ll go deep and get practical about ways to: create irresistible characters, find a vivid voice, craft crackling scenes, build those scenes into a compelling plot, and commit to a process that sets you up for success. Screenwriters and nonfiction writers welcome. Class format will be a 1.5-hour craft talk followed by Q&A.

The dates for this Craft Intensive are: January 8, 10, 14, 15, and 17

Craft intensives provide an opportunity to absorb insights into the process and practice of accomplished writers who have a particular approach to writing, or who are investigating specific elements of the writer’s toolbox. These sessions include a mix of craft talk and discussion, offering participants a learning experience that differs from our traditional writing workshop model, which focuses primarily on student work. The craft intensive model enables more participants to engage with the ideas and philosophy of the featured writer. The tone is conversational and informal. While most Hugo House classes are fairly small (typically limited to 15 people), our craft intensives are open to up to 40 participants, allowing for lively discussion, questions, conversation, and/or smaller breakout groups.