Gripping Grabbers: First Lines that Count
What makes a compelling first line? Storytellers have been working to craft an enthralling opener since humanity began communicating. Before the written word, oral storytellers knew how important it was to capture the attention of listeners from the get-go. They practiced the art form of fantastic first lines and their techniques are still in use today.
A fascinating opener need not be daunting. Nor ought its importance seize the author with such anxiety that the rest of the story is never written. In this workshop, writers will learn why the first line matters to both readers and publishers, study the structure of fantastic first lines, and consider if writing their opener comes first or last in their writing process. We will then work together to craft first lines for writing prompts and share discoveries about the process. This course is perfect for both fiction and non-fiction writers alike to help them grip their readers from the offset.
What Participants Will Take Away
- Gain clarity on how to capture one’s audience immediately
- Receive a repeatable structure for shaping an opening line
- Develop an individualized approach to crafting a story’s first line
- Understand how to leverage literary tools in the first sentence
This workshop is suitable for all levels.
There will be an optional opportunity to share.
Date:
Sunday, June 9, 2024: 7 AM PDT / 10 AM EDT / 3 PM BST / 7:30 PM IST / midnight AEST
About Instructor
Veronica Zora Kirin is a queer Croatian/American writer living in Berlin. Kirin is cofounder of Anodyne Magazine, featuring art and lit highlighting FLINTA* health. She is the author of “Stories of Elders,” documenting the high-tech revolution as lived by the Greatest Generation, which received the National Indie Excellence Award and was a finalist for the International Book Award.
Where is my workshop link?
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Registration opens May 1:
Click here for the text version of the June 9 time zone map.