English 143A

Book List

Mitchell, David: Cloud Atlas

Description

This workshop is designed to hone basic elements of fiction writing: grammar, diction, syntax, structure, plot, character, style, and so on. We will read a handful of short stories from a coursepack, David Mitchell’s Cloud Atlas, and each other’s work in progress. Admitted students will each compose and revise at least 30 pages of prose fiction—in whatever number, size, and form of work suits the writer—over the course of the semester. Students will write formal responses on their peers’ writing in progress, perform one oral presentation, and submit short assignments involving the practical matters of a writing career. Attendance and participation are mandatory. 

To be considered for admission in this course, please submit 10 double-spaced pages of your prose fiction (no poetry, drama, screenplays, or academic work), along with an application form, to Professor Serpell's mailbox in 322 Wheeler by 4 P.M., TUESDAY, APRIL 17, AT THE LATEST.

Be sure to read the paragraph concerning creative writing courses on page 1 of this Announcement of Classes for further information regarding enrollment in such courses!