Looking to the past can deepen a narrative, add dimension and complexity, and offer clearer insight into character motivation. Yet, how do we ensure this backward focus propels a story forward? When we jump to information or scenes from the past, we pluck the reader from the present narrative and potentially interrupt or derail a piece’s hard-earned momentum. In this class, we’ll interrogate our work: Why is it imperative we look backward in that specific moment? What are the most effective and evocative tools for a story to reveal the past? We will examine how to best transport the reader with essential information, rather than by over-explaining or withholding key details. As we explore transitions, pacing, development, and issues of proportion and balance, we’ll play with ways to describe pre-narrative events so that readers stay hooked and eager to turn the next page.
Please note: This class will be most helpful for writers working with a story draft or specific characters for development.
• In-Class Writing Lift: Medium
• Homework: Required
• Workshopping Drafts: None
Lara Hughes is a fiction writer who was born in Germany and raised on various military bases. She holds an MFA from Vanderbilt University where she received an Edgar H. Duncan Fellowship Award, taught undergraduate creative writing, and served as Nonfiction Editor for the Nashville Review. She is the winner of the 2022 Emerging Writer’s Prize from The Arkansas International, where her work will be forthcoming in the fall.
"I loved Lara's class! I really enjoyed how Lara structured the class as a blend of lecture, conversation and a few writing exercises. It made the time pass very quickly and the material didn't get overwhelming. I absolutely felt inspired and believe the work I did in this class will help me with some works in progress!"
"Lara was intuitive and responsive, smart and articulate."