IMF 51649 Fiction: Monster Fiction L

Instructor

Christopher Candice

Class Type

Literature & Craft

Course Description

In this course, we will read and riff on exemplary contemporary fiction (some of it in experimental, hybrid forms) that will open up possibilities for your own writing. These stories do what we must do as writers, dig deep inside and look closely outside to craft fresh, relevant works. Monsters are old things, and our readings often include mythic figures--vampire, kappa, ogre--all employed to explore some of the pressures on our present world, ranging from biotech and eco-crisis to bullying (LGBTQ+ others) and depression (and healing and release), and, of course, the age-old struggles of love and loss.

Our textbook is Jeff Vandermeer's Wonderbook, and our story authors include Patrick Ness, Sofia Samatar, Jeff Vandermeer, Isabel Yap, Max Gladstone, Shalini Srinivasan, Cassandra Khaw, and Ann Carson.

This is a Literature class, so the focus is on reading and discussion. However, we will also have the chance to do three brief, flash-fiction writing exercises rooted in our readings to spur new work. Expect to emerge with some finished flash (which can be seeds for longer stories).

Towards the end of our time together, you will choose a well-made monster story or scene exploring its strengths and focusing on a particular element of craft--which will help hone your own writing and provide insights to our learning community.

Textbook

A MONSTER CALLS
Author: Ness
ISBN: 9780763692155
Publisher: PENG RAND

WONDERBOOK
Author: Vandermeer
PUBLISHER: HACHETTE B
ISBN: 9781419704420

BORNE: A NOVEL
Author: Vandermeer
ISBN: 9780374537654
PUBLISHER: MAC HIGHER

A SONG FOR QUIET
Author: KHAW
ISBN: 9780765397409
PUBLISHER: MAC HIGHER