The Shape of a Story

The Shape of a Story Students take a close look at the form of the short story. We consider such questions as: What exactly is a short story and how is it different from other forms? We will look at both the shape and structure of a traditional short story and also examine the ways in which writers have experimented with the form. We will discuss what a narrative arc is and how it can be used to give a sense of cohesion to narratives written in any form.

Topics covered:

• Structure, shape, voice and form in the short story