This Level II fiction creative writing course runs for 8 weeks from 3 October – 28 November 2023, with a hiatus on 24 Oct. The course meets online with 2.5-hour live sessions on Tuesdays from 18:30 – 21:00 Amsterdam time. Class size is 6 – 9 people.

REQUIREMENTS

This course is open to writers who have completed at least two terms of Level I or equivalent training and by permission of the instructor. If you’re new to our group, please drop us a line before registering.

WHAT YOU’LL LEARN

Level II builds on the core skills acquired in Level I and introduces techniques specific to fiction. Although the course focuses on the short story, the skills and techniques taught also apply to the novel.

The course will guide you step-by-step through the process of completing a story. You’ll learn how to structure an effective story, create tension, develop characters, write dialogue, and craft compelling openings and satisfying endings.

In-depth analysis of examples and exercises help you to grow your writerly toolkit. Writers who’ve taken at least one term of Level II have an opportunity to bring in a story or excerpt of up to 2000 words outside of the regular course work.

HOW IT WORKS

We’ll have a weekly live online session. You can join the session via computer, phone or tablet. The default for the session is audio but you can choose to enable your device’s video camera (the teacher is usually on video) or participate via text chat (you’ll still need to be able to hear). If you can’t attend the live session, don’t worry—you’ll receive notes and access to a recording.

You’ll upload your exercise by the following Sunday. Critiques are given during the live online session. To participate you’ll need a computer and a reliable internet connection. Headphones are optional but highly recommended.

We may be using a required text for the term—it will cost around €25 or less and we will let you know in plenty of time to order your copy.

OUR REFUND POLICY

No matter how early you register, if something changes and you can’t join the course, you can let us know at least 72 hours before the first class (so we can offer your spot to someone else) and we’ll give you a complete refund. You can find the full details of our generous refund policy in our terms.