A Fiction Workshop

Level: All Levels

Point of view is fundamental to fiction. It shapes everything else about a story, from believable characters to the unfolding of plot, and ultimately a reader’s sense of the work’s overarching vision and concerns. But beyond the basics—first person vs. third person vs. omniscient, reliable vs. unreliable—how can writers most effectively employ a perspective that brings their work alive, feels organic and nuanced, and yields genuine surprise for the reader?

Attendees will read excerpts from a variety of authors, including Ethan Canin, Angela Flournoy, Elena Ferrante, Adam Haslett, and Mohsin Hamid, studying the essentials while considering some singular, virtuoso approaches. Techniques we’ll explore include the narrowing and widening of aperture, the role of syntax, the balancing of internal and external details, the interplay of multiple POVs, and the concept of narrative distance. In addition to close reading and discussion, attendees will play with perspective via prompts, both to generate new material and to enhance works-in-progress.

 + PLEASE NOTE This workshop will occur online, using the video meeting platform Zoom. Students do not need to create an account to participate, but should test out Zoom before their class if they are first-time users. On Thursday, April 15, from 5:30pm to 6:30pm, MWPA’s Hannah Perry will offer a test session on Zoom. Students are strongly encouraged to participate in the test session, which usually takes only 5-10 minutes, and those who do not are responsible for ensuring that they are able to use Zoom on their own. The week of the workshop, students will be emailed a link that they may click to enter the test session and the class.

+ REQUIRED EQUIPMENT A reliable, fast internet connection (broadband wired or wireless (3G or 4G/LTE), speakers & a microphone (built-in or USB plug-in), and a webcam (built-in or USB plug-in).