Every story contains its own world and rules. Using a variety of exploratory exercises, this class will investigate how authors create believable worlds using sample text excerpts. Learn the difference between complicated worlds and simple worlds, how to plan and revise a story’s worlds/universes using charts, drawings, multi-media, physical storyboards without feeling overwhelmed by the myriad ways in which one can build a world (and sometimes get lost). The focus will be on marrying your story’s world with your characters’ intentions, emotions and desires.

Though worldbuilding is often associated with science fiction and fantasy, it’s equally important to realistic fiction and memoir. The key in all storytelling is identifying a literary landscape that evokes emotions in the reader and is cemented in the central narrative. The class will also help troubleshoot common world building problems at both the drafting and revision stage.

TAKE THIS CLASS IF

You’re working on a novel, short story, or memoir.
Your setting often feels like a backdrop that could be exchanged with another without changing the story.
You want your setting to feel like a character.