This is a beginner's course for anyone who fancies writing but has been
daunted either by the slog or the certain knowledge that publication is almost
impossible. The aim of this course is to equip you with the tools for writing
in any genre or medium, but most importantly writing for pleasure so that it is
no longer a chore.
Just as if you were on a painting course, you would not expect to become
an accredited artist within a week, so do not enroll on this course thinking it
is a sure way of getting published. Over the years, teaching writing, I have
seen four students go on to publish a novel, two to be accepted on creative
writing courses at universities, one who writes for radio and many who have
published articles in magazines and won short story competitions. But there are
no guarantees and I consider it a success that one gentleman's feedback was
having done the course, he writes letters to his grandchildren who, "really
look forward to them as they are so full of good stuff”.
The emphasis will be on having fun. The only caveat is that during the
week you will have to write. It
is not a creative talking course although there will be ample opportunity to
discuss ideas, swap anecdotes and air fears and frustrations as well as take
and give constructive criticism on your own work and that of the rest of the
group. After each task is completed, we
share what has been written as it is the best and instant way of knowing if
your writing is worthwhile and - if not - how to improve upon it. Reading out any of your pieces is never
compulsory although people seldom opt out.
I will not give away the themes or starting points as students enjoy the
surprise and challenge but over the five days, we will cover many styles and
formats, from short stories, autobiographical snippets and journalistic writing
to drama and possibly poetry. At the end
of the five days you will have produced a portfolio with which to continue your
writing if you so choose, or simply to show to family and friends. You will
certainly be a more acute analyst and critic of prose and drama generally,
There is no need to prepare anything. Of course, the more reading you do
- airport fiction or chick lit is just as good as Shakespeare or Chekov and,
dare I say it, even watching drama on television - will all help to inform your
own writing; especially adaptations of the classics. I do advise however, that you think about
certain books or authors that have had an impact on you and try to work out, Why?
This is a standard question that I ask. You may also consider a story whose
ending you found unsatisfactory.
All you need to bring with you is an open mind and a blank sheet of
paper or tool for whichever is your preferred method of writing. Laptop or
tablet, pen and paper, are all acceptable. I look forward to welcoming you.