Instructor: Henry Lien
Time: Two Hours, Saturday, January 8, 2022, 9:30-11:30 AM Pacific Time.
Prerequisites: None. All levels of writer welcome.
“Begin at the beginning,” the King said, very gravely, “and go on till you come to the end: then stop.” ― Lewis Carroll, Alice in Wonderland. Carroll’s king was clearly not a Chinese king. Western storytelling traditions decree that a linear structure (along with the three act structure, the hero’s journey, and a rising self-esteem arc) are mandatory features of any satisfying story. This is Western-centric silliness. This course explores non-linear structures, specifically cyclic and nested structures, using examples from non-Western stories and films. It explores how these non-linear structures allow for thematic stacking, embracing of moral complexity, and a synthesis between form and content to explode the idea that a straight line is the best way to tell every story. The course emphasizes practical craft takeaways for storytellers to apply to their own works in progress.
Classes are taught online and require a reliable Internet connection, although in the past participants have logged on from coffee shops, cafes, and even an airplane; a webcam is suggested but not required.
Cost is $99 ($79 for Patreon supporters and former students, which includes classes/workshops with me in other venues, such as conference or convention workshops and mentoring sessions).
To register for this class, send an email with the following details:
- Which class or classes and the dates you are registering for.
- Remind me if you support me on Patreon or have already taken a class with me so you can get the special rate.
- Whether you would prefer to pay via Paypal, check, Venmo, or some other means.
- If you’re a new student, please let me know how you found out about the classes!
You will be invoiced when the class slot is reserved.
Free scholarships: If you cannot afford a class but really want to take one, apply for a Plunkett Scholarship. Each class has three slots reserved for such students, and the sole criteria is only that you can’t currently afford the class. To apply for a Plunkett, which covers the entire cost, mail me and tell me why you want to take the class in 100 words or less. QUILTBAG and PoC candidates are especially encouraged to apply. The Plunkett Scholarships are named for Edward Plunkett, who wrote as Lord Dunsany. Scholarships are given out on a rolling basis; I suggest getting them in sooner rather than later. You may apply for multiple classes.
