ENG 423 is an advanced level discussion course in the writing (and reading) of short fiction, with an emphasis on revision. Typical sessions will consist of discussion of original student work and assigned readings, and everyone will be expected to write and revise two original pieces of fiction. The primary focus of the class will be on short stories, although much of our discussion could also apply to novellas and novels. We will consider the aims of individual writers along with the effects of stories on readers and examine/practice the various mechanisms by which these are achieved (plot, character, dialogue, point of view etc.).

Note: Students who are declared creative-writing minors or English sub-concentrators will receive alternative enrollment instructions in an email before registration begins. Creative-writing minors and English sub-concentrators are not required to submit a writing sample for review.

To enroll in this course, non-creative writing minors and sub-concentrators need to:

Step 1:  Submit a writing sample to: englishcwsubmissions@umich.edu. Writing samples are generally between 5-15 pages of original relevant work (short stories, excerpts, poems).  For priority consideration, writing samples should be submitted no later than 5pm on Thursday, March 31, 2022. Students should receive notification of their acceptance (or not) no later than Monday, April 18, 2022. Students may continue to submit writing samples after the priority deadline until seats are full.

Step 2:  Complete the course section preference form no later than 5pm on Thursday, March 31, 2022.  Students are encouraged to consider second and third choice sections (where available) as potential back-up options. The back-up options should be times that will actually work with your schedule.