Generating Fiction with Family Dynamics

Class Description

Leo Tolstoy once wrote that all happy families are alike, but unhappy families are unhappy in their own ways. In this class we’ll examine compelling families (happy and unhappy) in literature, and use them as inspiration for beginning new fiction of our own. Along the way we’ll discuss common tropes of family dynamics and how to portray them realistically without falling into cliche (“the bumbling dad,” “overworked mom,” “type A oldest sibling,” “spoiled only child”). Students will leave class with the start of a new short story or novel, and a brainstormed list of new characters to continue working with.

Class Format

This class will take place in-person at our Center for Creative Writing in Boston's Seaport neighborhood.

Scholarship Information

Thanks to the excellent literary citizenship of our donors, scholarships are available for all GrubStreet classes. To apply, click the gray "APPLY FOR SCHOLARSHIP" button. In order to be considered for a scholarship, you must complete your application at least one week before the start date of a class. Please await our scholarship committee's decision before registering for the class. We cannot hold spots in classes, so the sooner you apply, the better. Scholarships cannot be applied retroactively.

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