Meander, Spiral, Explode
Alison investigates how various pieces of fiction are structured, and how they are different from the typical rising tension - climax - release cycle that we’ve been taught underpin “traditional” fiction.
It’s an interesting exploration, and certainly worth reading. Personally, I think if I had more exposure to the pieces that Alison discusses that I’d have understood more. Given that this is intended for college creative writing courses, I’m much the wrong audience. When I picked the book up, I thought that I was getting a general treatment. However, I now have a slew of books to read that deliver alternative treatments to story structure.
This is an excellent text in a creative writing class, especially if students read the texts as they read this book. For us layfolk, it presents a wealth of riches if you’re looking for new reading material and experiences.