Moments in Love or Otherwise: Capturing Relationships

Class Description

Sometimes, the challenge in our writing isn’t fleshing out our characters, but rather the space between them. How do we capture relationships in a way that is concise yet profound; that is specific to our characters yet immediately relatable to our readers; and thoroughly explored without being heavy-handed? How do we identify the critical moments in our stories, no matter how small or mundane, that get at the heart of a relationship? What narrative tools are the most effective in communicating the nuances of a relationship?

In this class, we’ll analyze the craft techniques employed in Teddy Engs’s “Somebody’s Been Stealing My Mom’s Bike” that give such haunting and memorable body to the protagonist’s family dynamics in under 900 words. Then, we will try our own hand at showing relationships through what is spoken and what is unspoken. Toward the end of class, we will workshop each other’s work so that each student leaves with new writing and peer-informed direction.

Whether you aim to write a moment of interpersonal connection as a flash piece, as the beginning of a short story, as an excerpt for your memoir, or as something else entirely, join us in deep-diving into that weighty space between your characters.

Class Format

This class will take place using Zoom videoconferencing. About 15 minutes before your class is scheduled to begin, you'll receive an email from your instructor with a link to join the class meeting!

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.

For more more detailed information about GrubStreet scholarships, including how to contribute to scholarship funds for other students, click here.