1. Analytical Essay
Analyze a specific element of fiction (see the list below) in a short story that is not on the reading list for this course. Select a story by an author whose reputation is firmly established. Do not just write a simple plot summary; engage the text in an intellectually mature, analytical way.
2. Creative Writing
Write a realistic short story, paying attention to the following factors:
- General fluency (follow rules of standard English in terms of spelling, grammar, syntax, etc.)
- Technical merit (“The Elements of Fiction” — see below)
- Universality of theme (compose a story that somebody else can relate to; make your readers think about the storys message).
You may write a completely original piece or base your project on one of the stories we have read this semester (e.g. write a contemporary version of “Pauls Case,” provide a sequel to Everyday Use, etc.). This latter approach is called intertextuality, and it is quite common in contemporary literature. Creative Writing stories that turn out to be exceptionally interesting will be submitted for publication in the creative writing journal Ink.
3. Life Writing
Write an autobiographical essay that has a broader cultural significance and may resonate with others. An autobiographical essay is a personal essay that focuses on your own real-life experience. Life Writing stories that turn out to be exceptionally interesting will be submitted for publication in the award-winning journal International Voices.
Expected Length: 3 — 4 pages, double-spaced, Arial font size 12
No secondary sources are required.
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THE ELEMENTS OF FICTION:
THEME / CHARACTER / SETTING / PLOT / STRUCTURE/ POINT OF VIEW / LANGUAGE / STYLE / SYMBOLISM / IRONY /AMBIGUITY
