Enroll Course: https://www.coursera.org/learn/craft-of-plot
For any aspiring writer, the concept of plot can feel both fundamental and daunting. It’s the engine that drives a story, the invisible hand that manipulates our emotions and expectations. If you’ve ever found yourself utterly captivated by a novel or film, wondering how the storyteller managed to hook you so effectively, then Coursera’s ‘Creative Writing: The Craft of Plot’ is a course you absolutely need to explore.
This course, offered through Coursera, dives deep into the elemental, and often challenging, aspect of storytelling: plot. It’s designed to equip writers with the tools to understand what makes a plot tick, how to craft narratives that resonate, and how to keep readers invested from the first page to the last. The instructors expertly break down the choices storytellers make to capture our imaginations and immerse us in fictional worlds.
The syllabus is thoughtfully structured to build a comprehensive understanding of plot. The initial module, ‘Plotting a Course,’ lays the groundwork by defining plot, exploring its mechanics, and differentiating it from mere story. It uses familiar examples, like the Harry Potter series, to illustrate how plot functions in practice, emphasizing the crucial link between character, action, and plot, and posing key questions for character development.
Following this, ‘The Power of Structure’ delves into narrative arcs and sequencing. We learn about established structures like Freytag’s pyramid and the five-act structure, examining their presence in classic literature and discussing how outlines can be invaluable for organizing a story. This module is essential for understanding how to build a cohesive and impactful narrative.
‘A Scene in Motion’ focuses on the building blocks of any good story: scenes. It clarifies what constitutes a scene and how it propels the plot forward. The distinction between ‘telling’ and ‘showing’ is clearly explained, along with the five key elements that make a scene effective. The importance of setting and description in bringing scenes to life is also highlighted.
Finally, ‘Cut It Out’ addresses the critical, yet often overlooked, stage of editing and revision. This module provides practical advice for transforming a first draft into a polished manuscript. It includes a detailed checklist for post-first draft revisions and discusses the creation of characters with strong motivations, as well as how to discern which language needs rewriting and which needs to be cut entirely.
Overall, ‘Creative Writing: The Craft of Plot’ is an outstanding resource for anyone serious about improving their storytelling. It demystifies the complexities of plot, providing actionable strategies and insightful analysis. Whether you’re a beginner or looking to refine your skills, this course offers a robust foundation in crafting compelling narratives. I highly recommend it for its clarity, practical advice, and engaging approach to the art of plot.
Enroll Course: https://www.coursera.org/learn/craft-of-plot