Novel Architecture

Class Description

If you were to draw a simple diagram of the plot of your novel-in-progress, what would it look like? How about a more detailed drawing? Using examples from classic and contemporary novels together with various forms of graphic visualization, this class will take a deep dive into the nuts and bolts of narrative structure in the novel. We’ll begin on the micro level with concepts such as pattern and variation, grip and release, and classic story progression, and move on to macro level concerns such as external vs internal arcs, the inciting incident, and progressive complications. We’ll examine graphic representations of various large-scale novel structures, including the three-act structure, the hero’s journey, multiple story lines, the quartile structure, and more—and we’ll discuss strategies for assessing and improving the underlying architecture of your own work.

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.