Richie Narvaez

This course explores how elements from mystery and crime fiction—such as a central sleuth, red herrings, and suspense—may be applied to speculative fiction, from fantasy to science fiction to horror. By analyzing classic and contemporary crime fiction, as well as cross-genre fiction, students will learn the craft of creating energized stories that engage readers. The course will guide students to incorporate these techniques into writing at least two new works of speculative fiction—one whodunit and one thriller—as either stories or chapters.

This course will focus on the intersection of literature and activism, challenging participants to explore the complexities of using specifically speculative fiction as a tool for social change. Through a multidisciplinary approach drawing from critical theory, postcolonial studies, and literary analysis, students will interrogate the role of genre narrative in advocating for justice and equity. Discussions will center on the ethical considerations, historical precedents, and aesthetic strategies employed by writers engaged in activism. While analyzing a diverse range of texts spanning genres and cultures, students will cultivate a nuanced understanding of the strengths—as well as the limitations—of fictional storytelling as a means of advocacy.