In water, surface tension pertains to the cohesion of individual molecules that allow liquid to resist external force, to overfill the glass as though taking on the form of something solid. In a story, tension is defined by the emotional investment made by the reader. Created by engaging characters, conflicts, and settings, this tension is why a reader commits him or herself fully to a fictional world; it is the magic that allows that glass, or the story, to hold more than its fill. In this workshop participants will explore elements of craft, including characterization, point of view, voice, style, and overall story structure that work together to fully engage the reader in the central tensions of the work. The class will read and discuss stories by published authors, participate in guided exercises in class and take part in a class workshop where they will explore the possibilities for their own work, and the work of their peers, through a thoughtful forum.<\/P>
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