Finding Your FLASH: How to tell a story in 500 words or less

Everyone has a story and I want you to tell yours!

In a world that is fast paced, flash fiction has become increasingly popular. Flash fiction is the ability to write a story in approximately 1,000 words or less. The ability to craft a compelling narrative in as little as 500-1,000 words requires discipline, creativity, and spice!
This course we will focus on the fundamental building blocks of story by examining “story beats” in both literary classics and by reading flash fiction examples. We will look at genre and literary fiction, allowing you to find your voice within. After examining examples, you will have a variety of prompts to craft a narrative (or come ready with your own idea ready to edit!). This class will give you the opportunity to work in pairs, editing and distilling your piece down to its core. After several rounds of revision and discussion, you will leave with a piece ready to pitch to the variety of literary magazines, both virtually and in print! We’ll go over how to submit to competitions and submissions using the online platform “Submittable.”

Come with an idea or just be ready to write, and we’ll ensure you leave your story on the page!

Registration Includes

• 1 hour instruction and discussion around story structure and elements of flash fictions
• 1 hour of writing to a prompt that includes editing time with peers
• Follow up line edits up to 1,000 words of prose with editorial letter

What goes into our class pricing? As a local nonprofit, Duluth Folk School is committed to supporting both our instructors and community. We want to compensate our instructors fairly, keep class sizes small, and keep our doors open—while also keeping prices as low as we can.

Thank you for participating in our local handcraft and education economy! Together, we help keep Duluth a fun and vibrant place.

Student Requirements

• Skill Level/Prerequisite Skills: This class is for anyone
• Best for Ages: 18 and older
• You should bring: A laptop or notebook (depending on the preference for writing)

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