
Full course description
Course Overview
This course aims to be an enjoyable introduction to the study of the Short Story. This course aims to help readers enjoy and appreciate the fine art of the short story. Each week will deal with a new writer, from the classics (Hemingway, Carver), to contemporary (ZZ Packer, Louise Kennedy). Students will learn about the techniques used to write a short story, but also will analyse and talk about the short story from a reader’s perspective. It will take the form similar to that of a book club.
Course Schedule
Classes will be delivered online on Wednesday 7-9 pm for eight weeks from 28 September to 16 November. Online only via Microsoft Teams
Closing date for applications: Friday 16 September 2022
Through the course the following topics will be covered in relation to the short stories: Setting; Narrative Arc; Narrator and Point of View; Themes; Symbolism; Characterization; Setting; Language and Style; Plot and Structure; Conflict.
Week 1: ‘Hills like White Elephants’- Ernest Hemingway
Week 2: ‘Good People’- David Foster Wallace
Week 3: ‘You and Him- Louise Kennedy
Week 4: ‘Why don’t you dance’- Raymond Carver
Week 5: ‘The Arrangements’- Chimamanda Ngozi Adichie
Week 6: ‘Night Swim’- Anne Enright
Week 7: ‘Drinking Coffee Elsewhere’- ZZ Packer
Week 8: ‘Luck’- Mary O Donnell
Course Lecturers
Dr. Patrick Holloway is a writer and lecturer. He holds a PhD and Master’s degree in Creative Writing. He has been published widely in Europe, USA and South America. In Ireland he has been published by The Irish Times, The Stinging Fly, The Incubator, Southword, The Moth, among others. He has taught adult learners for over a decade.
Entry Requirements
Applicants must be at least 18 years old at course commencement.
Assessment
Short courses are not assessed. Students will receive a UCC Certificate of Attendance upon completion.
Contact Details for Further Information
Email: shortcourses@ucc.ie