Intro to Speculative Fiction

Class Description

In this class, we’ll apply elements of the traditional workshop—a focus on craft, language, character, plot, setting, sensory details —to the specific considerations of speculative fiction writing. Not only will we explore the history of multiple sub genres such as magical realism, science fiction and more, we'll concentrate on story elements that are unique to these genres. We'll lean heavily into the steps of Joseph Campbell's Hero's Journey through a contemporary lens with works from such authors as N.K. Jeminisin, Tananarive Due, Sheree Renee Thomas, Sara Hashem, Vajra Chandrasekera. This class will involve weekly meetings featuring readings, movie clips and even poetry. There will also be meeting writing prompts with workshopping. Short story, novelists and poets are welcome as are students new to the genre.

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