The Story Arc Workshop Friday 27 June – 10:00am
Hello writers,
Thanks for coming to the last five writing sessions, during which we have examined different genres, form, and structure.
We will meet again to write on Friday, 27 June, at 10:00 a.m. (Note the time change.) This is the last writing session of six planned workshops. After this session, the group has agreed to meet once a month. Contact me for more information and directions to Casa Alexandra, near Santo Estevão. sue@suehall.net
The topic on the 27th is Story Arcs. We will look at practical examples, such as Barbara Kingsolver’s Poisonwood Bible, which has a strong and impactful story arc. You are invited to consider your writing, create a short story, and outline the arc.
What’s a Story Arc?
Have you ever been grabbed by a story that never lets you go while others fall flat? The secret often lies in creating a solid story arc. It could be called the backbone of the narrative or a blueprint for how the characters and plot evolve from beginning to end.
It’s not just about what happens, but how it happens and how it changes everything (or doesn’t). It does not mean having a happy ending. I’m not much of a plotter, but over the years of writing, I have discovered the story arc elements that create a compelling narrative, whether transformation, love, loss, trauma, or just getting through each day better than before.
A story arc is like a sculptor taking a lump of clay and shaping it into something meaningful. Each scene, event, conversation, or even line of dialogue is a stroke, gradually revealing the final form.
Story Arcs:
Give our stories purpose and direction.
Elevate our writing from a series of events to a cohesive, engaging narrative.
Create characters that resonate with readers on a deeper level.
Build suspense, create satisfying resolutions, and explore meaningful themes.
I have just finished writing two novels, and alongside editing, I am checking if I have effectively created a compelling story arc.
In the workshop, we’ll explore techniques to:
Build tension and release through the right pacing.
Navigate the transformative journey, either good or bad.
Allow the story to “say” something bigger than the plot events.
Come along as we consider how the power of story arcs can create more meaningful stories that prompt readers to keep turning the pages.
Contact: sue@suehall.net
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