Setting Is Everything . . . Well, Almost

“Writers often think of setting as simply the place and time in which events occur, but for me setting is not only the water in which our characters swim, but the driving force behind the narrative,” says instructor Anne Raeff.

During this 5-week class, we will focus on setting as a crucial element of character and plot development. The first two weeks will consist of craft considerations. Among other exercises, we’ll practice using concrete details to create a big-picture setting and isolating characters within a setting in order to build conflict. We’ll also explore how to incorporate details related to class, culture, and economics through setting. Guided by sample short stories and novel excerpts, we’ll respond to a series of writing prompts and at-home assignments to make setting a driving force in a story of our own.

During weeks 3-5, we will share oral and written feedback as well as workshop and revise the final scenes that were generated by the prompts and assignments. We’ll also discuss some of the obstacles that can come with writing about settings, including the challenges with work that is set in either a different time period or a place with which one is not deeply familiar. In doing so, we’ll delve into the value of research and imagination.

Anne writes, “As a result of taking this class, my hope is that students will have a deeper appreciation of the importance of setting and the start of a promising story with setting as its cornerstone.” 

ABOUT THE WRITING SALON'S IN-PERSON CLASSES

Before your class meets, you'll receive an email from The Writing Salon with more information about the class. If you have any questions about in-person learning, please don't hesitate to reach out to us at hello@writingsalons.com.