Write a Novel in 12 Weeks for NaNoWriMo! (Sep 23 2022)
“There is nothing to writing. All you do is sit down at a typewriter and bleed.”—Ernest Hemingway
This class provides an overview of how to write a book. What is commercial fiction, versus literary, upmarket, or other classifications? Whether you stick to the conventions or bend them, your ability to write a compelling novel requires a deep understanding of the style and structure of your genre. We’ll study different genres, and discuss their nuances and expectations. Last, we’ll lay out the basics of tense, voice, and viewpoint.
Join pro writer Conor Kyle for a twelve-week crash course on writing novels. Geared toward (but not limited to) commercial fiction, we will develop killer premises, build out compelling worlds, and complete a 50,000-90,000 word manuscript in time for NaNoWriMo (National Novel Writing Month). Examples of popular commercial fiction genres include fantasy, science fiction, crime/mystery, romance, thriller and horror.
Bring your novel ideas and loglines!
This course is ideal for:
- beginning writers seeking to understand the core concepts of prose and novel writing; or
- experienced writers who want to write a brand new novel draft in a more formal setting with the guidance of an experienced writer.
Novel Bootcamp: Week 0 Homework Assignment
(due Sep 24)
- Brainstorm ideas for your premise
- Read a novelette from the list, or begin a novel or novella of your choice.
- Write ONE PARAGRAPH of fiction (4-8 sentences).
- Class Slide Presentation:https://docs.google.com/presentation/d/1MFROkApOb_s36GTUmPY97xsoOjYZz0NgQLP2I6MDTjA/edit?usp=sharing
- Some great novelettes you can read:
Conor Kyle
Conor Kyle has written for Shudder’s Creepshow (2019) and placed twice in the Nicholl Fellowship with his scripts “Peter and the Wolves” (quarterfinals, also Launchpad top 10) and The Tube (semifinals). His screenplays have also been featured on the annual Hit List, Young & Hungry List, Spec Book, and on Tracking Board’s “Best Writers of the Year” booklet. He writes everything from stage musicals to Westerns to horror movies.
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