Read Like a Writer: Short Fiction - Session Two - 2024

The best way to improve as a writer is to write. The second best way is to read and analyze contemporary literature. Join us for this reader series class where we will take a deep dive into the craft of one short story each month. We’ll unpack character, structure, dialogue, plot, details, theme, tone, cultural context and more using examples from a wide variety of contemporary writers representing the future of short fiction. We’ll also discuss what we can takeaway and learn for our own writing styles, projects, and processes. Copies of the stories will be provided in advance of each class. Join us for advanced-level craft lessons, writer-centered discussion, and great reading.

NOTE: You can register for just the summer session, or receive a discount by committing to the full year.

Session 2

May 7: “In Flux" – Jonathan Escoffery
June 4: “Rabbit Test" – Samantha Mills (2023 Hugo and Nebula Winner)
July 2: “Prussian Blue" – Benjamin Labatut
Aug 6: “Xífù" – K-Ming Chang (O’Henry Prize)

Session 3

Sep 3: “Filthy Animals" – Brandan Taylor
Oct 1: “Ira and the Whale" – Rachel B Glaser (O’Henry Prize)
Nov 5: “Seeing Through Maps" – Madeline ffitch
Dec 3: “Pig Son" – Sequoia Nagamatsu

Instructor: Matt Weinkam is a writer, editor, instructor and the executive director of Literary Cleveland. His work has been published in Denver Quarterly, Sonora Review, New South, DIAGRAM, and Electric Literature.

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Details: Read Like a Writer: Short Fiction - Session Two takes place the first Tuesday of each month from 7:00-8:30pm remotely through Zoom.

Prerequisite: None.

Genre: Fiction reader series.

Level: All experience levels welcome.

Format: Craft-based discussion.

Location: This class takes place remotely online via Zoom.

Size: Limited to 25 participants (including scholarships).

Scholarships: Two scholarship spots are available for this class for writers in Northeast Ohio. Apply by April 15.

Cancellations & Refunds: Cancel at least 48 hours in advance of the first class meeting to receive a full refund. Email info@litcleveland.org.

Registration Fee

$60 - Session 2 Non-Member Registration

$40 - Session 2 Registration with Member Discount

$100 - Sessions 2-3 Non-Member Registration

$70 - Sessions 2-3 Registration with Member Discount

I'd also like to help out other writers with a donation to the Word for Word Scholarship Fund. (This fund provides low- and limited-income writers in NE Ohio with access to our classes)

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