At the core of captivating writing is strong characters and believable conflict. Without these elements, a story can feel flat, and lack momentum, and buy-in from readers will wane. As a writer of fiction, understanding your character and their motivations is paramount.

Join us in-person at The Chestnut Tree Bookshop in West Footscray or on zoom to discover how to deepen your story, build confidence as a writer, and enthral readers.

This 3.5-hour masterclass on mastering character and conflict is designed to enhance storytelling skills by delving into the intricacies of character development and conflict creation.

In our time together, we'll focus on character elements such as wants, goals, needs, ghosts, shadows, wounds, masks, and character arcs. We'll examine motivations, flaws, strengths, weaknesses, fears, and secrets, and look at how the addition of backstory influences the plot.

We'll explore how characters look, sound, and move, including tics, gait, posture, speech, communication, clothing, and distinguishing features, and how all of this impacts character goals.

Exploring conflict, we'll discuss antagonism, obstacles, making things difficult, midpoints, and continuing character arcs, internal and external conflict, and the importance of both.

We'll look at the darkest moments in your story and their teachings and learn to understand cause and effect.

Note: You will receive a pre-class questionnaire so that our teacher gains a good understanding of your work and offers individual coaching tailored to your specific needs based on the pre-class QUESTIONNAIRE.

What you'll get

• Custom workshop materials: workbook, worksheets, pens, and stationery

• In-person attendees receive snacks and drinks

• One-on-one assistance

• Fully accessible venue

• A safe, welcoming, and inspiring space