Stories are divided into scenes. One scene written after another creates a sequence of events (plot). The best scenes connect, one causing action to further complicate or move the story along.
In early drafts (particularly the first draft) learn to write quickly. Include images, poetic phrases, descriptions of characters in action, describe and detail setting. To create a scene you need characters in a setting DOING something. This never changes in writing. Usually characters in stories come to an epiphany or enlightenment or understanding of their condition. When that "light bulb" lights above your protagonist's head, you know you are close to the end of the story arc. (unless the character is completely wrong). Keep this in mind when writing the following:
Short Story Project (Hemingway style)
1. Most of Hemingway’s stories have simple plots revolving around the theme of death or alienation. Two characters usually do not have the same world view (or opinion) and their conversation or relationship is strained by miscommunication (or the fact that a character cannot explain him/herself to another human being.)
2. In your journal, brainstorm a series of situations that you might write about. These situations should be simple and able to be described in one or two sentences. Ex: A man dying of gangrene remembers his youth while trying to convince his wife that he really is dying. Or: Two waiters watch an old drunk man one evening. One of the waiters sees himself reflected in the old man.
3. Pick one of your best situations or one you would like to work with.
4. Tell only this story for the first draft. Your first draft doesn’t have to be an epic length story. It should simply record the events and dialogue. Keep your action within one day or a short amount of time (an hour, a minute, etc.)I'd suggest trying to write 2-3 pages at most.
HOMEWORK: Please complete "The Gambler, The Nun, and the Radio" & "Fathers and Sons" (pg. 37-64)
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