Weeks 15 and 16: Workshopping

*** Monday 5/2--Read "Revisioning the Great Gatsby" in your reader: 47-57.

- Think about what makes for a great writer-editor relationship.
- Please look at the manuscript version (earlier draft) of The Gatsby here.
- Compare this draft with the published version of Gatsby

Authors: Please email your classmates and me. Attach your story in a word document.

Please revise the story based on my comments and/or your own instincts before you submit it for workshopping.
Please print out and hand in a reflection sheet on what you changed (see doc below).
Please review the writing contract and make sure the mechanics of your story are in good working order (e.g. dialogue formatting).
Please put the date on which your story is being read in the title bar of your email.
Finally, please don't email your story too far ahead of time. Let's try to keep the order clear for the readers. Thanks!

Readers:

Please download the story and print it out.
- You'll need a copy of the story so we can comment on it in class (it's not okay to use laptops for workshopping).
Also, don't forget to print out your letter to the author (or email it to the author).
- Make sure to comment on the story in the margins as you read through it.
  - Also, remember to put your name on the print out so the author can ask you if they have questions about your comments.
Please post a copy of the letter on Canvas.

Instructions for letter to the author (minimum 200 words):

If it seems helpful, you might begin by stating quite simply what happens in the piece and what it’s about. Especially if the piece has a complicated plot structure, this can be useful.
Mention 2-3 elements of the story that you consider strong.
- Be specific about these strengths (e.g. “you use fresh, surprising metaphors” is better than “you’re very descriptive).
Questions are good:
- e.g. “I’m curious whether Craig will finish his list or abandon it in pursuit of Hilda?”
- e.g. “What does Hilda look like?” “Does Paul love Michael or Robert?"
Give at least one suggestion you have for improving the piece.
- Again, be as concrete and specific as possible in your suggestion and try to avoid judgment. E.g. “it might be helpful to introduce more conflict into the piece earlier.”
- Think of Maxwell Perkins here: “Couldn’t you add one or two characteristics like the use of that phrase ‘old sport’?”

Tips On What to Comment On and Sample Letters Posted Below!

Workshopping Schedule:

Period 4:

Tues May 3—Christina, Miguel

Thurs May 5— Abigail, Bryce

Fri May 6— Arif, Jake K.

Mon May 9—Kelly, Jake M

Tues May 10—No class

Thur May 12—José, Caroline

Fri May 13—Eléonore, Sam

Mon May 16—No school!

Tues May 17--Neel, Mary

Thurs May 19--Max, Zane

Period 5:

Tues May 3 –Chris, Jady

Thurs May 5— Daisy, Ami

Fri May 6— Annika, Ryan

Mon May 9—Jenna, Mark

Tues May 10—No class

Thur May 12— Kat, Eli

Fri May 13—Evan, Che

Mon May 16—No school!

Tues May 17--Elizabeth, Analisa

Thurs May 19--Gillie, Amaris

Friday, May 20th: Revision due of workshopped story (but extensions possible!)