Ref: SWE13424
In this intensive course you will examine the different elements involved in developing a polished style for fiction-writing. You will learn how good fiction prose differs from non-fiction prose, and how to develop your unique voice as a writer.
Through teaching, discussion and exercises, you will explore both the basics and trickier aspects of prose style in fiction, with the aim of acquiring all the skills you need to write fiction to a professional standard. You will discover how to approach word-choice, sentence structure, figurative language such as metaphors, and the perennial problems of commas and other grammatical pitfalls, along with aspects of style that are unique to fiction-writing, such as how to write gripping dialogue, how to choose tenses and viewpoints, and how to master the complex (and often misunderstood) technique of ‘show don’t tell’, which lies at the very heart of good fiction-writing.
Additionally, you will discover how novelists use writing style to create mood and atmosphere, and try out for yourself techniques using rhythm and sound to impact the reader’s experience.
The tutor will also explore what is meant by a writer’s voice and you will learn how to go about developing a mature, original writing voice of your own.
Additionally, there will be an opportunity for the tutor to read some of your writing and discuss it privately with you, particularly with respect to your style and voice.
By the end of this two-day course you will have an extensive tool-kit for writing accomplished fiction prose. You will also know how to use rhythm and sound to create different moods and you will have started your own journey towards finding your individual, authoritative voice as a fiction-writer.
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 - Book now
Places available - Book now
Places available - Book now
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