Mystery Writing I Class Syllabus

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Each week a new topic is explored through lecture and writing exercise. The topics covered in this course include:

Introduction to Mystery Writing – Various sub-genres. Importance of premise. Short stories and novels and serials.

Plot – Creating an interesting protagonist. Creating an antagonist or antagonistic force. The twists and turns of plot.

Character – Making characters vivid. Revealing characters through action. Casting—protagonists, antagonists, sidekicks, love interests.

Point of View/Voice – Various types of point of view. Voice and style.

Dialogue – The illusion of reality. Subtext. Dialogue for character. Dialogue for exposition.

Description/Setting – Creating setting that enhances the story. Sensory description.

Plot II – Focusing on the central story. Subplots. Backstory. Raising stakes. Clues. Plot holes. Climax.

Revision/Authenticity – Process of revision. Researching for authenticity. True crime.

Moral Universe – Finding the moral center and theme. The shades of gray.

The Business – Finding the appropriate agents, publishers, and publications. Query letters. Synopsis.

Note: Content may vary slightly among individual classes.