INTRODUCTION TO
​SHORT STORY - ​
​Instructor: Elaine Ouston

How do you tell your story in a limited number of words and make it as interesting, exciting, and memorable as a novel?

The course will introduce writers to the craft of short fiction. We will be examining the structure that makes a short story powerful. And learning what to leave in and what to take out without spoiling the story.
Topics covered will be:

Point of view: New writers are often baffled when trying to choose a point of view for their stories and novels. In this workshop will look at the pitfalls and benefits of them all and help you discover the right one for your story.  

Plotting, Themes and Setting:  ​In a short story you don't have many scenes to tell your story so plotting those scenes carefully is vital. Succinct and interesting setting description will transport your reader to the world of your story. We will examine the way we can use setting to add mood to the story. 

Realistic and Engaging Characters: Characters make the story. Many characters in short stories are flat. They don't have to be that way. We will look at ways to make them believable and memorable. 
​
​Rising tension and A twist in the tale: What will make your reader stayed glued to the pages until the end? Tension. We examine the six key things that will help you achieve that. 

This is a practical, hands-on  course where writers will be experimenting with different ways to use each element.​ 

Bring a story for feedback. ​

Format: Course for beginners

Please put the name of the workshop in the box below.
One or two day workshop fees
Name of workshop

Author and writing tutor - Elaine Ouston

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Elaine Ouston holds a Master of Letters in Creative Writing (MLitt) from Central Queensland University, and a Diploma of Graphic Art. She is a published author of a number of books for children.

She presents writing workshops, edits for other writers, and sets up books for self-publishing at Gondor Writers' Centre.

​Through  Australian Literary Festivals and Book Fairs she organises literary festivals for schools or libraries. Visit the website for more information: www.austlitfest.com.

She is an experienced writing tutor, editor and designer, and has had many recommendations from students for her workshops.
​Not what you're looking for? Go to the workshop page to see the full program of workshops. 
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