Full course programme:
Week 1 Voice
Understand what it means to find your voice as a writer, and explore examples of different styles, genres and modes of narrative non-fiction writing. Understand the principles of workshopping, and sign up for your workshopping session.
Week 2 Structure
Show no fear when considering structure: it is the key to unlocking your story. Study examples of best practice and different models, while experimenting with your own ideas. In the second half of the session, you’ll try your hand at a workshop – offering constructive feedback on another writer’s work, or receiving feedback on your own.
Week 3 Research
The quality of your research will elevate an idea into a meaningful contribution. Learn how to carry out research, and how to incorporate research into your writing. In the second half of the session, you’ll continue workshopping.
Week 4 Character
How do you capture a real-life character, and what are the ethics of writing about other people? Andrew will guide you through the principles and practice of dialogue and description, followed by a workshop session.
Week 5 Place
Consider some of the best classic and contemporary writing about place, and how to develop your own sense of place in your writing. In the second half of the session, you’ll continue workshopping.
Week 6 Audience & Readers
Drawing on his experience as a writer and editor, Andrew will help you find an audience for your work, including questioning who you're writing for as well as exploring options for submitting your work. You’ll finish the course with a final workshop session.
Indicative Reading List
Bart Van Es, The Cut-out Girl
Davina Quinlivan, Shalimar
Marina Warner, Inventory of a Life Mislaid
Patrick Barkham, Islander
Anna Funder, Wifedom