Novel Generator with Kristopher Jansma

Overview

The goal of the class will be for you to complete–or at least be well on your way to completing–a full draft of a novel, a draft that fills you with confidence, whether that confidence means that you feel ready to send your novel to agents, or you feel ready to embark with clear intentions on another draft. We will tailor the class readings and assignments to the specific needs of the group. If you’ve started a novel recently–or have a detailed idea for one–and need the time and focus to get the words down, we’ll provide the space for that. If you have been writing your novel for years but feel “stuck,” we’ll help you identify what is making you feel stuck and help you get unstuck. If you feel you made a wrong turn in your novel somewhere along the way but can’t figure out exactly where (something all novelists experience!) we will help you retrace your steps and find your direction. If you’re at a point in your process where you’re not sure whether the class would be right for you, we’d be happy to chat with you.

Each participant will have the opportunity to submit and receive robust feedback on 25-50 pages of your novel at least four times over the course of ten months. Additionally, there will be lessons on aspects of craft, such as setting, narrative engine, POV and voice, and much more. We’ll talk about creating layered characters and building classic plot structures, and how to adapt and subvert these structures to your own purposes. We’ll discuss how to use what readers expect to give them something they never could have imagined. We’ll also do many generative exercises that will–like exercises in a gym–help you develop muscles you did not realize you had.

Over the course of ten months (February 23 – December 7, 2027), we will also read and analyze at least one published novel in full. If possible, we will arrange to invite the writer to join the class and speak to the group. While the work itself is the only thing any writer has control over, we also want to introduce you to aspects of publishing your work and finding readers. Periodically, editors and agents may make visits to the class to discuss their experience and perspective and answer questions you may have.

The class will meet 40 times over the course of ten months, for three-hour sessions. The year will culminate in a celebratory reading for all participants in the Novel Generator. There will be a virtual component for those unable to make it to NYC.

Please submit your application using our Submittable link before 5pm on Tuesday, February 9.

Scholarships and payment plans are available for those in need of financial assistance. For more information, please visit our scholarships page here.

Please be advised this class will skip August 31 and September 7.