Gothic Suspense and Twists: Mastering the Art of the Reveal

Join award-winning author and professor Michael Bird for an immersive 2-hour workshop exploring the narrative techniques behind some of the most gripping and twisted Gothic tales.

In the first hour, Michael will analyze the plot structures and devices used by Gothic masters like Edgar Allan Poe, Mary Shelley, and Angela Carter to build suspense, create shocking twists, and leave readers on the edge. Through close reading of key passages, you’ll dissect how these authors craftly planted clues, misdirected audiences, and built towards their famous narrative reveals.

The second hour will be a hands-on writing session. Michael will guide you through exercises for outlining Gothic-inspired narratives and engineering your own cliffhangers and twists.

By exploring the narrative architectures that have captivated readers for centuries, you’ll gain invaluable tools for injecting more suspense, mystery, and dramatic tension into your own fiction writing. Unlock the secrets to crafting haunting tales readers can’t put down!

Workshop covers:

– Analyzing suspense-building techniques in classic Gothic literature

– Plotting exercises for Gothic narratives and cliffhangers

– Peer critique of 300-word Gothic writing samples with a twist ending

– Q&A with the instructor

Limited spaces available. Secure your spot for an unforgettable masterclass in cultivating the pleasures of the macabre!

Optional: Bring with you 300 words of either a plan or a creative writing draft which ends in a twist or a reveal to gain feedback and workshop your story with the group