Scene Writing Intensive

Being “in scene” is where storytelling comes alive on the page. It’s where readers feel, understand, and enter a story’s world—where we experience deeper emotional truths that keep us turning pages. Scene is the foundation of memorable storytelling, and it is a craft that crosses every genre. This five-day intensive teaches writers the essential elements of compelling scene construction. Over five class meetings, students will learn to create authentic characters, ground readers in vivid and purposeful setting, weave exposition seamlessly into narrative, and build scenes that draw readers in and hold them page after page. In each session we move from craft principle to practice and feedback, so that each writer leaves understanding how scene works and having practiced, too. What Writers Will Learn Character & Setting Craft: • Ground story in vivid, purposeful locations • Create characters with clear motivation and authentic behavior • Develop compelling dialogue that reveals character Pacing & Structure: • Build tension through countervailing forces • Drive momentum with action and conflict • Practice page-turning pacing techniques Voice & Subtext: • Weave in distinctive narrative voice • Add depth through subtext and implication • Balance showing and telling for maximum impact Daily Structure Each session will include: • Study of effective published scenes across genres • Analysis exercises mapping scene and expository techniques • Supportive read-alouds of new work • Collaborative workshopping of three participants’ pieces • Q&A on scene craft and technique Access Program We want our writing classes and seminars to be accessible to everyone, regardless of income and background. We understand that our tuition structure can present obstacles for some people. Our Access Program offers writing class and seminar tuitions at a reduced rate. Most writing classes have at least one access spot available. Please apply here for access rate tuition. Contact Susan Moore at [email protected] if you have questions. Liaison position Every in-person class and seminar at Literary Arts has one liaison position. Liaisons perform specific duties for each class meeting. If you are a liaison for a class or seminar, the full amount of your tuition is covered by Literary Arts. Apply here for the liaison position.