Class

Mini But Mighty: Writing Micro

How much punch can you pack into a ≤ 250-word piece? You’ll see in this two-session workshop on the short-short genre. Micro prose is among the flashiest of forms; you’ll find it's both fulfilling and fun to write.

Publishers might cap it at 500, 250 or 100 words (sometimes exactly 100). Others want it to be Hemingway’s way: only 6 worthy words. We’ll read examples of works of all these lengths, then examine their structure, literary techniques, and outsize effect on the reader. Using published micros as inspiration, you’ll generate numerous drafts and make each word count. We’ll have a rich discussion on the challenges and opportunities of concision, because the craft of writing micro is much more than just cutting unnecessary words.

Between classes, you’ll receive an additional prompt and invitation to return with both a new micro and a revised one. By the end of the second class, you’ll have *many* micro drafts, next steps, and submission opportunities. After class, the teaching artist will provide written feedback on a 250-word draft.

Instructions for Accessing This Online Class

In order to access live class meetings, you must have the Zoom application downloaded to your computer. You will also need a WiFi/Internet connection throughout the duration of your scheduled meeting and a computer with audio and video capability. The information to join your Zoom classroom will be provided in your confirmation email upon registration. Please check spam folders if you do not see this email upon registration. For more information on how to use Zoom, please see our training manual here.

Some classes use a supplemental Google Classroom page. Should your teaching artist use Google Classroom, you will be invited to join the classroom via email at least 24 hours in advance of your class (check spam folders if you are not seeing this invitation). Please note that Google Classroom requires a Gmail address to access the Classroom. If you do not have a Gmail account, the email invitation will be sent to the email address we have on file and will prompt you to create a free account or enter an existing account to join the classroom. If we are unable to send an email invitation to your non-gmail account, you will be contacted by a staff member to provide a Gmail address. If you do not have a Gmail account, you can create a free account here. Should you have concerns about this, please contact a Loft staff member at [email protected] or 612-379-8999. For more information on how to use Google Classroom, please see our training manual here.