Basics of Creative Writing

Everyone has a story to tell. The trick is getting this story out of your own heart and into a format other people can read and be enriched by it.

This course is designed to walk new writers through the basics of structuring their story with cohesive narration, character development that resonates, and believable and engaging plot, action sequences, dialogue, and scene descriptions. Students will learn to recognize and evaluate these concepts within their favorite works of fiction, then apply what they’ve learned in series of writing exercises that help further refine their own characters, conflicts, and settings. Students will learn to give and receive detailed editorial reviews in a constructive and relationship-building setting.

Even more experienced writers are invited to delve ever deeper into creative writing principles; explore templates for character creation, worldbuilding, and plot outlines; and have classmates review their writing and provide helpful feedback. Network with other writers in advance of November (National Novel Writing Month), and set yourself up for writing success.

This course has elements of in-class writing exercises and class discussions, as well as presentation an editorial critique by fellow students. It will rely heavily on homework assignments for students to truly practice and apply these skills all while developing unique characters, settings, and plot points for their future story.

Supplies needed: pencil and paper (notebook) to complete in-class assignments, and favorite creative fiction novel (will bring with you to class starting session 2).

$60 for 6-week session. Ages 13 and up.

Instructor Bio: Laurie Montgomery began dabbling in fiction writing during her military service career as a form of therapeutic stress release. She went on to obtain a Bachelors of Arts in English, with courses that explored literary terms and the elements that contribute to the great literary works of art. Graded workshops and editing groups helped her refine her skills in creative writing. She currently works as a professional writer and editor for a new government agency, with five years experience in the field. She continues creative writing as a hobby, exploring genres such as fantasy fiction, dystopian future scapes, and more. She believes everyone has a story within them bursting to get out, and she is happy to share what she’s learned with new writers to help them overcome initial hurtles and finally get started writing!