Backstory: An Underutilized Tool for Thinking about Character and Conflict

“Over the years, numerous students have told me that they don’t feel comfortable writing backstory or have been told to avoid backstory,” says instructor Lori Ostlund. “My general philosophy is to utilize all tools, and backstory is one more tool to help writers make sense of their characters and give meaning to the plot.”

In this class we will address backstory as a fiction tool that is rich in potential but often underutilized. We will read short stories that bring in backstory through dialogue, summary and exposition, flashback, flashforward, and documents (diaries, resumes, etc.), discussing how the backstory allowed each writer to get at the core of the story—who these characters are, why they act as they do, what this story is truly about. In addition, we will engage in writing exercises that focus on specific backstory techniques, including how to transition in and out of backstory. Participants will use these exercises to create work at home, which we will workshop in class.

“My goal,” Lori says, “is for us to think about these craft elements in ways that are new and generative. You will leave this class with new ideas about how and when to incorporate backstory and a greater appreciation for its ability to add depth and complexity.”