Blueprint for a Novel
OnlineThis course will walk writers through an outlining and revising process that can be applied to their next novel whether you’re a plotter or a pantser. We’ll not only look at basic character development and create an outline of your plot but will also consider the audience and marketing of your book so that you…
Introduction to Fiction Writing
The Muse Writers Center 2200 Colonial Avenue, #3, Norfolk, VA, United StatesThis free class is for members of the military community only: active duty, veterans, families, and caregivers. We all have stories to tell, whether we’ve never written anything before, or we’re dusting off the old writing muscles and getting back in the game. This class is a foundational course to get started or begin writing…
Fiction 3: Deeper into Voice & Revision (Mornings)
Online or at The MuseThe level three fiction class of three
Fiction 3: Deeper into Voice & Revision (Evenings)
Online or at The MuseThe level three fiction class of three
Find Your Muse: Essay Exploration
Online or at The MuseRediscover the essay as a versatile and creative medium for expression! In this workshop, we’ll explore various forms of essays—from narrative reflections to op-eds, lyrical musings, and beyond. Through inspiring prompts, examples from diverse writers, and guided discussions, you’ll experiment with blending personal stories and ideas in unique ways. Whether you’re revisiting this familiar form…
Find Your Muse: Creative Nonfiction Exploration
Discover the art of telling true stories creatively in this workshop designed to inspire and engage. Creative nonfiction blends the factual with the imaginative, allowing you to craft compelling narratives from real-life events. Using prompts, brainstorming exercises, and inspiring readings, you’ll explore personal essays, memoirs, and other nonfiction styles. Whether you’re writing about your life,…
Creative Writing Exploration for Middle School Youth
The Muse Writers Center 2200 Colonial Avenue, #3, Norfolk, VA, United StatesCreative Writing for Middle School Youth (ages 11 to younger 14-year-olds) explores the fundamentals of creative writing and encourages each student to find their individual writing voice, no matter the genre (poetry, fiction, comics, songwriting, and screenwriting). Students will explore their creative expression through unique prompts, exercises, in-class writing, and opportunities to share and discuss…
Creative Writing for High School Teens (Hybrid)
The Muse Writers Center 2200 Colonial Avenue, #3, Norfolk, VA, United StatesCreative Writing for High School Teens encourages students to expand their creative writing by challenging them to elevate their creative voices with new writing techniques. During class, students learn literary craft techniques through lessons, exercises, and prompts. Popular topics include villain archetypes, magic system basics, how to write a fight scene, poetry, screenwriting, and more!…
Young Writers Workshop
The Muse Writers Center 2200 Colonial Avenue, #3, Norfolk, VA, United StatesThe Young Writers Workshop explores a wide variety of genres and topics, including poetry, fiction, comics, and songwriting! During class, students engage their creative expression through various prompts, exercises, in-class writing sessions, and opportunities to share their work. All forms of creative writing are welcome. This course is open to all young writers in 3rd…
The Power of the Personal Essay
OnlineThe personal essay is a dynamic and versatile form of creative expression, blending storytelling, reflection, and argumentation. In this one-session class, we will explore how structure shapes meaning, how personal voice creates resonance, and how essays can engage with larger ideas while remaining deeply individual. Through discussion and analysis, participants will gain insights into crafting…
The Hero’s Beat: A Novel Formula
In this engaging two-and-a-half-hour workshop, we’ll explore how to blend the Hero’s Journey and Blake Snyder’s Beat Sheet to create a powerful, page-by-page outline for your novel. You’ll learn how to structure your story to maintain pacing, develop compelling characters, and craft a narrative that resonates. Perfect for writers looking to deepen their understanding of…
How to Self-Publish Your Book
OnlineYou’ve written a great book, but the query letter/literary agent/publisher game isn’t your cup of tea. Have you considered self-publishing? With print-on-demand, it's easier than ever to get your book into print—and e-books are even easier! From platform choice to formatting and cover design, this workshop will answer your questions and walk you through the…