Can you also help me find online
material on how to write a "tale"?
I should also refer to Poe's tales and its main features. Can you think of another important American writer of tales? Thank you very much, Writeacher!!
I would list these as the best American short story (tale) writers:
Edgar Allan Poe
Ernest Hemingway
O. Henry
Washington Irving
John Steinbeck
(Others are on various lists, but these are the best, in my opinion!)
Here are some good websites for how to write short stories:
Short Stories: 10 Tips for Creative Writers — Jerz's Literacy Weblog
http://jerz.setonhill.edu/writing/creative1/shortstory/
How to Write a Short Story: 14 steps - wikiHow
http://www.wikihow.com/Write-a-Short-Story
Short Story Overview -- How to Write a Short Story
http://fictionwriting.about.com/od/shortstorywriting/a/shortstoryrules.htm
Here is a link to one of Steinbeck's stories that I used very successfully for several years with 16-17 year old students who had just finished two years of ESL classes. (I was their first English-only teacher!)
http://www.nbu.bg/webs/amb/american/4/steinbeck/flight.htm
If you decide to have students read this story, be sure you also include print-outs of photos of the Monterey, California, coastline! Students need to be able to form images in their minds of the setting so the actions in the story make sense.
http://www.google.com/search?q=monterey+ca+coastline&hl=en&rlz=1C1GGGE_enUS379US379&prmd=imvns&source=lnms&tbm=isch&ei=3E7LT72oOcrK2AX6p_3ZCw&sa=X&oi=mode_link&ct=mode&cd=2&ved=0C_AUoAQ&biw=1366&bih=643
You should also give them a good plot diagram, such as Freytag's on this webpage: http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Plot_(narrative)
Of course! I can definitely help you find online materials on how to write a "tale" and provide information about important American writers of tales.
To start, you can search for online resources such as writing websites, writing forums, or even online writing courses that provide guidance on writing tales. Some popular websites for finding writing resources include:
1. WritersDigest.com: This website offers articles, prompts, and tutorials on various writing genres, including short stories and tales. You can search for specific articles related to writing tales.
2. TheWritePractice.com: This website provides writing exercises, tips, and tutorials on different aspects of creative writing. They often cover elements of storytelling that can be applied to writing tales.
3. Udemy.com: This online learning platform offers writing courses, some of which specifically focus on writing short stories or tales. You may find courses that cover the basics of crafting a tale and explore the techniques used by famous writers.
Now, regarding Edgar Allan Poe and his tales, his works are widely studied and analyzed. To understand the main features of Poe's tales, you can start by reading some of his most famous stories like "The Tell-Tale Heart," "The Fall of the House of Usher," or "The Murders in the Rue Morgue." It's essential to look for annotations or critical analysis of these stories to understand the elements that make Poe's tales unique.
Some aspects commonly associated with Poe's tales include:
1. Dark and macabre themes: Poe's tales often explore themes like insanity, death, and the supernatural, creating a sense of suspense and horror.
2. Psychological exploration: Many of Poe's characters exhibit complex psychological traits and undergo intense psychological exploration, often delving deep into their darkest fears and desires.
3. Narrative structure: Poe's tales are often characterized by a tightly controlled narrative structure. The stories are typically short and compressed, focusing on a singular, intense effect on the reader.
As for another important American writer of tales, one name that stands out is Nathaniel Hawthorne. His collection of stories titled "Twice-Told Tales" showcases his talent for crafting engaging and atmospheric tales. Hawthorne's tales often explore themes of guilt, sin, and the human condition, sometimes incorporating elements of allegory and symbolism.
With this information, you can begin your journey into learning how to write a tale and explore the works of these influential American writers!