Creating Character

Intermediate | In fiction, character is the font of narrative. A character’s desires, behavior, and limitations create and evolve plot. Consequently, when beginning a novel or story, a writer’s knowledge of their primary characters interrogates and supersedes all other variables. Through discussion of the work of Dana Johnson, Jhumpa Lahiri, and Denis Johnson, this class will explore the components and utility of memorable characters. Students are urged, but not required, to bring works-in-progress for discussion and exploration.