Seeing through the Mediocrity of the Male Gaze: How We Can Write Better Stories with the Female Gaze by amy z. chan
How are invisible misogyny and involuntary patriarchy woven into popular narratives? This introductory workshop explores the concept of the male gaze and its subtle yet powerful influence on storytelling. Examine how the unconscious normalization of patriarchal viewpoints shapes the way we portray gender, and introduce the female gaze—not as a binary inverse, but as a more encompassing practical, transformative alternative. Explore examples of popular narratives that have been able to break away from patriarchal norms, by crafting more nuanced and even unlikable female characters, portray positive masculinity, and develop stories that are authentic, inclusive, and reflective of a wider range of human experience. This workshop will help writers start thinking more critically about gender depictions in media, empowering participants to craft stories that challenge entrenched norms and embrace more inclusive, authentic perspectives.
Amy Z. Chan has had too many secret pen names. As former indie author, she has written in many genres, but in her current identity, she is an author of romantic comedies and other stories with escapist happily ever afters. A daughter of Chinese immigrants, a feminist, a foodie, and a California girl by way of NY/NJ, Amy is also a member of the Mod Squad at the Kiss and Tell Literary Salon, a monthly in-person romance reading series, at Books Inc. in Alameda, CA. Under previous pen names, Amy has presented writing and marketing workshops at Clarion West, Romance Mastermind, Willamette Writers Conference, New England Romance Writers, the Northern Toronto Romance Writers and many more. One of the current Authors Guild Ambassadors for the San Francisco Bay Area, she is now represented by Hillary Fazzari at Bradford Literary.
Links:
https://www.instagram.com/amyzchan/
9:30 - 10:15 a.m. Business Meeting
10:30 - 11:30 a.m. Presentation
11:30 - 12:00 p.m. Social Time