By asking the question “What if?”, writers can explore an imagined world within the space of a few pages, which is why the short story has proved to be a versatile from for speculative fiction. Such stories push the boundaries of what is accepted as reality, and by exploring the human condition through the lens of the unexpected offer a new understanding of ourselves. This is perhaps why speculative fiction is widely read, and why such writers as Ray Bradbury, HP Lovecraft and Ursula LeGuin have earned such popularity and respect.

On this course we will consider the parameters and potential of speculative short fiction, including science fiction, fantasy and horror, as well as examining the technical aspects of writing short fiction, such as point of view, plotting characterisation, etc. Our exploration will include wide reading and analysis of a selection of exemplary stories, classroom discussion, writing exercises, workshop and active experimentation with students' own writing, leading to a portfolio of creative and critical work.