Introduction to Creative Writing

Overview

This module is designed as an introduction to creative writing, and will cover the three main creative genres: poetry, prose fiction, and scriptwriting. The focus throughout will be on the rules of successful creative writing, both generally and in relation to each kind of writing’s specific requirements. The module will be split equally between reading and writing: a series of set texts will be used as a platform for discussing what each literary form requires, technically and aesthetically. Students will then be expected to emulate these forms in their own writing exercises. There will be a heavy emphasis on standard grammar, stylistic clarity, accuracy of language, and proper presentation of work.

Learning Objectives

On completion of this module you should have gained an understanding of the problems posed by a range of different creative texts and the strategies employed to overcome them. You should also have learned to write according to strict criteria governing both subject matter and execution.

Skills

To familiarise students with the technical and aesthetic rules of a wide spectrum of texts from a practice-based perspective; to enable students to experiment with various literary forms in order to discover their own strengths (and weaknesses) as writers.

Assessment

Assessment is by TWO final projects, each worth 50%. The two projects must be in two different genres (prose, or scriptwriting, or poetry). Prose and scriptwriting final projects should be 2,000 words. Poetry final projects should consist of 8 poems. Attendance at lectures, tutorials and/or seminars (at least 70%).