Creative writing: an introduction to life writing

This course is aimed at anyone who wants to write a biography, memoir or other form of non-fiction. It will use examples and practical exercises to guide students through the skills needed to write interesting non-fiction: research, editing, how to tell a story and ways of using description.

Aims of the course:

1. This course will begin with an introduction to life writing: what it is, its tradition and how it has changed in recent years
2. Participants will assess what they know already about their proposed biographical subject or the period they want to write about, and what they need to know
3. Each week will focus on a different aspect of life writing: bringing people to life, writing about a place, telling the story and polishing and revising work
4. The participant will learn how research can enhance writing and influence the way in which a story is told.
5. This course will encourage participants to establish a writing regime.

Schedule:

Induction Week: 22-28 April 2013

Teaching Weeks: 29 April-2 June 2013

Feedback Week: 3-9 June 2013

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A Certificate of Participation will be awarded to participants who contribute constructively to weekly discussions and exercises/assignments for the duration of the course.