Master the craft of the short story, and learn to write short fiction that leaves an impact.

Short fiction is a pillar of literature and publishing—from anthologies, to the majority of local competitions and awards. In this workshop, Lee McGowan breaks down the forms and conventions of short fiction, and teaches you the craft of writing successful short stories. From characterisation within a limited word count, to the fundamentals of plot and structure in short fiction, learn to write a memorable story that impacts your reader in just one sitting.

Whether you're a first-time short story writer, or an experienced writer looking to refine their craft, this workshop will provide you with the knowledge and inspiration to go write incredible short stories.

Learning outcomes

In this workshop, you will:

Learn the conventions of effective short story writing
Understand the forms of short fiction
Learn to master character, plot and structure in short fiction
Gain a better understanding of the role of short fiction in Australia's publishing industry, including opportunities
Be inspired to go write memorable stories that can be read in a sitting

Format

This is an in-person workshop with a focus on craft; it will be held at State Library of Queensland. This workshop is suitable for short fiction writers of all levels and writing backgrounds.

About Lee

Lee McGowan is an award winning writer and researcher and Senior Lecturer in Creative Writing. He writes about researches intersections of creative writing, sport, and community engagement. He’s published many works in a range of forms, his most recent books, Women’s Football in Oceania (Routledge 2024) and Beach Soccer Histories (Routledge 2024), were written with support from the Australian Centre for Pacific Islands Research (ACPIR). His new book, Contemporary Literary Sports Journalism, will be published in 2026.

For more information about Queensland Writers Centre’s Program of Events and answers to FAQs, please visit: www.queenslandwriters.org.au/program-info

Contact the host of Writing Short: Stories to be Read in a Sitting with Lee McGowan