Compelling narrative voices are made, not born. They are the result of calculated choices on the part of the writer, all in the service of one goal—to draw readers into the story and persuade them to follow wherever it leads.
A great narrator intrigues, seduces, and inspires trust. It says: Take my hand and come with me on this journey. I promise I'll make it worth your while.
Join award-winning American author and screenwriter Hillary Jordan (who wrote her first novel Mudbound in six voices) in this 5-day retreat as she breaks down the process of crafting narrative voices that are distinct, believable, and irresistible. She guides you in examining the specific craft elements—point of view, tone, diction, syntax, and punctuation—that make up a voice.
Together, we read short pieces of fiction and memoir that vividly illustrate the power of voice and discuss what makes them work. And we experiment with daily in-class writing exercises that help you discover and develop your own voice.
This is a supportive class environment where it's safe to try new things, put your guts on the page, and share your efforts with the group. William Faulkner may have written As I Lay Dying in six weeks and 15 voices, but for most of us mere mortals, good writing takes time and multiple revisions. This workshop isn’t about creating something perfect; it's about giving you tools and possibilities you can take home and use to make your voices sing.
