Class Description
Dialogue can be the bane of a writer’s existence or great fun. In this class, we’ll aim for the latter. After a review of basic principles, we’ll read examples from the likes of Toni Morrison, Sam Lipsyte, Danielle Evans, and Grace Paley. Then we’ll use eavesdropping, role play, and even a smidgen of applied linguistics to write dialogue that is textured, lively, and rich in subtext.
Students should bring three lines of overheard dialogue to class for use in a collaborative exercise. This should be something you’re willing to share with others for use in their fiction. Students will write one new scene and come away with techniques for countless more.
Anca L. Szilágyi is the author of the novel Daughters of the Air, which Shelf Awareness called “a striking debut from a writer to watch.” Dreams Under Glass, her second novel, releases in September 2022. She has taught creative writing since 2010.
Materials List
Required:
- No required materials
First Reading:
- Students should bring three lines of overheard dialogue to class for use in a collaborative exercise. This should be something you’re willing to share with others for use in their fiction.
Cost and Registration
One session, $95 ($85.50 for Newberry members, seniors, and students). Learn about becoming a member.
To register multiple people for this class, please go through the course calendar in Learning Stream, our registration platform. When you select the course and register, you’ll be prompted to add another registrant.
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