The Art of Meaningful Story

Start a professional portfolio of published work while in high school

This course provides a foundation for all other Author Academy courses and starts authors on our pathway to publishing. Using myths, fairytales, and biblical texts, we will explore the power of creative writing to make abstract ideas concrete.

Course Goals

Think like a writer

Evaluate story for worthiness by examining theme & details through biblical principles
Study elements of composition, literary devices, & figurative language as creative tools
Practice professional collaboration with other motivated Christian creatives

Speak like a writer

Learn professional vocabulary of the publishing industry
Develop the collaborative skillset of traditionally published authors
Practice with peers that are motivated writers and committed to Christ-like word use
Nurture lasting collaborative connections with other Christian creatives

BE a writer

Understand that Christ grounds your personal call to write (you're already a writer; we just show you how you can expect to be treated like one!)
Get supportive input that helps you clarify the messages, gifts, & style that God has knitted into your writing voice
Be encouraged to understand your call to write as a call to worship God & make Christ known
Start a professional portfolio, prepare to create your online presence, and begin learning how to confidently navigate the legalities of copyright and contracts

Learn by Doing

Understand the difference between writers & authors
Study how literary choice conveys meaning
Observe how literary devices advance theme
Write short, creative pieces that apply skills studied
Participate in weekly, live writing workshops
Practice giving & receiving meaningful feedback
Nurture collaborative connections with other Christian creatives
Write beginning (informal) literary analysis responses
Draft & revise an analytical synthesis essay with feedback from instructor
Work with Publisher & Editor in Chief to prepare the essay for publication on Anistemi Publishing’s blog
Start portfolio with high-quality, published copywriting sample
Draft & revise a short story with feedback from instructor and peers
OPTIONAL PUBLICATION COMPETITION: Practice using manuscript guidelines to prepare and submit a short creative piece for publication & promotion through Anistemi Publishing.

Authors receive lifetime access to the course, so they may choose to complete it at their own pace. It need not be completed within the same year as The Art of Meaning.

PLEASE NOTE: Participation in the optional publication challenge does not guarantee publication. This challenge gives student authors experience with professional publishing standards, practices, & communications.