Writing is now democratic – most of us can write – but completing our works is about perseverance, hard work, support and conversations, that’s what Simone de Beauvoir learnt in her 10-year apprenticeship. Beginners and long-term writers hit blocks and holes. Come and bring those drafts to a working writer’s workshop, and hear helpful ideas from some BIG writers who persevered. We look at Simone de Beauvoir, Toni Morrison, George Orwell and Ernest Hemingway. Class exercises are aided by positive commentary from participants, to help and inspire you to move to the next stage, and maybe even finish off. Sessions will include delivered content, practices and exercises, readings, homework, and helpful feedback. We will mould and tailor the course, as we go, in light of participants emerging needs, suggestions and ideas.
- De Beauvoir, S. (1965). Force of Circumstance, Penguin
- De Beauvoir, S, (1985). A Very Easy Death, Pantheon, ISBN 0394728998
- Hotchner, A.E., (1999). Papa Hemingway, Sribner, ISBN 0684860546
- Orwell, G. (1947). Why We Write
- Morrison, T, (1987). Beloved, ISBN 9780099511656
- "Big" writers’ ideas, tips, insights and pointers about the tradecraft of writing to push and inspire participants to their next step in writing
- Receive helpful and supportive commentary on one’s work from similar writing voyagers.
- Group workshops to provide an ambience of stimulation, encouragement and collaboration that can kick start or inspire and stimulate us to work through stuck drafts
By the end of this course, students should be able to:
- Be well acquainted with hidden and forgotten writing tips and insights from these Big and productive writers.
- Use new tools and tips to revise, rework and re-visit rough drafts and move through writer’s block to the next stage.
- Broaden and improve their individual writing skills and motivation to further develop their draft works.
