Fiction Writing: The Novel

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Course Details

  • Location: Online
  • Duration: 9 weeks
  • Times: Evenings
  • Cost : $945

Next Start Date:

January 14, 2025

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About this Course


The author W. Somerset Maugham supposedly once said, “There are three rules for writing a novel. Unfortunately, no one knows what they are.” Even if you can’t know the exact rules, you can at least begin to unlock the mysteries of this enduringly popular form of fiction.

This course is divided into two parts. In the first, we’ll examine how to smooth out your prose, using seamless transitions and managing the pace of unfolding events. In part two, we’ll cover how to structure a novel in five focuses. You’ll look at how to use strong scenes to manage the progress of your hero’s quest through increasing levels of risk, past a point of no return and on to reversals that seem both surprising and inevitable.

Designed For

Intermediate and advanced writers of fiction who have a novel or collection of connected stories underway.

See Requirements

What You’ll Learn

  • How to recognize and control narrative and psychic distance
  • Ways to create smooth transitions between scene and sequel
  • Techniques for managing fictional time and controlling narrative pace           

Get Hands-On Experience

  • Workshop at least two stories or two chapters of your novel
  • Generate 50 to 100 pages of smooth prose and a structural plan for your book

OUR ENROLLMENT COACHES ARE HERE TO HELP

Connect with an enrollment coach to learn more about this offering. Or if you need help finding the right certificate, specialization or course for you, reach out to explore your options.

Learning Format

Online With Real-Time Meetings

Online Synchronous

Combine the convenience of online learning with the immediacy of real-time interaction. You’ll meet with your instructor and classmates at scheduled times over Zoom. Learn More »

Course Sessions

Online Synchronous

For the class session on February 11, 2025, students have the option to attend online or in person on the UW Seattle campus for networking and project work. More information will be available once the course is underway.

Online

Meet your instructor

NONCREDIT COURSE

You'll earn 3 continuing education units (CEUs) for successfully completing this course. Learn more about noncredit options.

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