​​Creative non-fiction covers a generous array of writing styles, such as biography, autobiography, memoirs and work based on diaries. It also includes travel writing and nature writing, and is often a hybrid of these forms – travel writing combined with memoirs, for example. The key element that underpins all these forms is they have a basis in fact - you are writing about something that is real, i.e. something that exists or has happened.

In this one-day course, we will develop skills to write non-fiction that is as compelling as any fictional story. We will do this by utilising the tools/devices available to writers – characterisation, dialogue, descriptive language, setting, building tension and using scenes to infuse the writing with vivid story telling. We will read and discuss excerpts of creative non-fiction writing and do writing exercises.

The terms “freedom” and “flexibility” are often used when talking about creative non-fiction: there is endless scope to be inventive. If you have a fledging idea for a piece of non-fiction writing, bring it along. If you don’t yet have an idea, we will do writing exercises to get you started. Be prepared to be surprised by the stories you may uncover as we explore this fascinating genre.​

What students need to bring

​​A laptop and/or notepad and pen​

Student registration: 10am- 10.30am
Course teaching: 10.30am-4.30pm 
Morning session: 10.30am-1pm
Lunch break: 1pm-2pm (lunch is not included)
Afternoon session: 2pm-4.30pm (optional 15 minute break)
Teaching finishes: 4.30pm  
 

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