Traditional and nontraditional styles are explored, as well as immigrant, class, and cross-cultural themes. Revision is encouraged, with an eye toward publication. We also read short fiction by Cheever, Ellison, Paley, Rushdie, Achebe, Junot Diaz, Jang Rae Lee, Calvino, Danticat, Carver, Oe, and others. David Grand Permission required. Attention is given to the creation of images that engage the senses and seize the imagination.
Students start from a draft of a story or a seed of a novel and submit writing on a regular basis.
Supporting evaluation and assistance is provided on all work submitted. Readings from the masters of classic and contemporary fiction enhance our efforts. Authors and editors visit. Liz Mechem Permission required. Each week we read and rigorously analyze student work with an eye toward improving it.