In a Flash: Writing the Short Short Story
WRI1-10-Thu3
Donna Johns
This course will take place virtually on Zoom. Participation requires a device (ideally a computer or tablet, rather than a cell phone) with a camera and microphone in good working order and basic familiarity with using Zoom and accessing email.
September 12 - November 21
(No Class October 3)
Flash fiction is written work of extreme brevity that still offers character and plot development. Depending on the form, flash fiction word counts range from 6 words to 500 words. While flash fiction has been around since the days of Aesop, it has become increasingly popular in our social media era. There are many opportunities to publish flash fiction. Why write flash fiction? It’s fun to write and flexes your writing muscles. You need to be able to scribble your draft and then tighten it up until you have a proper tale told in as few words as possible.
In this study group we’ll play with different forms of flash fiction: drabbles, soliloquies, twists, and genre to name a few. No specific writing experience is necessary. Bring your imagination, a number 2 pencil, and a sense of fun to the table. We’ll share our pieces each week and learn from each other.
This second offering of “In A Flash” will feature all new writing experiences. Returning and new writers are welcome.
More facilitated discussion than lecture.
Readings will be provided on the website.
1-2 hours per week.
Donna Johns spent her working years as a youth librarian in the Newton Public Schools, an adjunct professor at Simmons, and a popular presenter at regional conferences throughout New England. At BOLLI she focuses on making herself a better writer and encouraging others to pursue their writing goals. Donna has previously been a leader for the “Advanced Memoir Writing” study group.