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