Ref: SWE30058
On this course, you will discover ways to build your confidence to write fiction. Together we will explore the reasons why writing fiction is so daunting, even for experienced writers, and look at techniques that can help you when you feel resistance to writing the novels, short stories, plays or films that you want to write.
In a relaxed and supportive environment, you will have an opportunity to explore your route to enjoying writing fiction. You will take part in fun creative exercises to build your confidence and resilience, and learn how you can keep going or get re-started when you feel daunted by the task or the exposure of fiction writing, whether you are writing for private pleasure or with the goal of professional publication. You will also look at some of the technical (literary, not word-processor!) problems you can encounter in writing fiction that can lead to feeling blocked or unconfident, and find out how to avoid them.
There will also be opportunities to discuss your writing aims and projects, both with the group and with the tutor privately, and to get personal constructive feedback on your writing to help you gain the confidence to believe in your aims and abilities. Bring a sample of your novel, or synopsis or idea if you would like to, and you and the tutor can look at it together.
By the end of this largely experiential course, the aim is to discover how to enjoy the process of fiction-writing instead of being daunted by it. You will have learned tools and tried out techniques to help get past barriers to fiction-writing, to write with greater freedom, productivity and confidence.
Arrival Day - this is the first date listed above
Courses start early evening. Residential students to arrive from 4pm, non-residential students to arrive by 6.45pm.
6.45pm: Welcome, followed by dinner (included).
8 - 9pm: First teaching session, attendance is essential.
Daily timetable
Classes 9.15 - 5pm, lunch is included.
From 6.30pm: Dinner (included for residential students).
Evening working - students may have access to workshops until 9pm, but only with their tutor's permission and provided any health and safety guidelines are observed.
Last day
Classes 9.15am - 3pm, lunch is included.
Residential students are to vacate their rooms by 10am please.
(This timetable is for courses of more than one day in length. The tutor may make slight variations)
Rebecca is a best-selling novelist who has also worked for many years as a script writer and editor in the West End theatre. She has been teaching fiction writing for the past decade and has worked as an editor and coach with more than a hundred different novelists.
Residential option available. Find out accommodation costs and how to book here.
Places available - Contact us
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If you’re looking to complete the first draft of a novel and learn about the publishing process. The two-year, part-time MA Creative Writing and Publishing is taught by professional authors and visiting industry professionals. Find out more