Ref: SWE37464
On this course, you will gain a better understanding of how to write a compelling piece of flash fiction and complete stories of fewer than 1,000 words. This includes: creating a vivid story world, using sensory detail, metaphor and imagery; exploring character movement and editing a piece where the feel, as well as the meaning, of every word matters. Through written exercises, you will explore each of these areas and discover how they can be used to write a story which is short on words but long on depth.
You will be given advice about the process of submitting work to competitions and for publication.
Working in a supportive, encouraging environment, you will give and receive feedback on each others work and receive regular feedback and guidance from the tutor. The focus will be on making your flash fiction story as impactful as it can be. There will be plenty of time for independent writing in and around the inspirational college and gardens.
In the introductory first evening, we will discuss what flash fiction is. At this session, you will be given an exercise to get started with flash fiction writing.
By the end of the weekend, you will have developed an understanding of the nature of flash fiction and you will have written and edited several pieces. You will leave with increased writing skills, several completed flash fiction stories and the confidence to write more.
Available from shop:
Please wear appropriate clothing/aprons for the workshop or studio. This includes stout covered footwear, i.e. no open-toes or sandals, and safety boots, if specified.
Arrival day
Residential students can arrive from 4pm, non-residential students to arrive by 7.15pm for registration. Students arriving earlier are welcome to purchase dinner in the College Dining Room from 6pm.
Students meet their tutor in the Bar at 7.30pm prompt to go to studios.
First Teaching session: 7.30pm - 9pm (attendance is essential)
Daily timetable
Course teaching: 9.15am - 5pm
Morning session: 9.15am - 12.45pm including coffee/tea break
Lunch break: 12.45pm - 2pm*
Afternoon session: 2pm - 5pm including coffee/tea break
Teaching finishes: 5pm
Evening working: students may have access to workshops until 9pm, but only with permission from the tutor and provided any health and safety guidelines are observed.
Departure day
Course teaching: 9.15am - 3pm
Teaching finishes: 3pm
Residential students will need to check out of rooms by 10am. Please note, the tutor may make slight variations to the daily timetable as required.
*Lunch can be purchased on campus, view options
Ruth Brandt’s short stories and flash fiction have been widely published. She won the Kingston University MFA Creative Writing Prize, and has been nominated for the Pushcart Prize, Write Well Award and Best Small Fictions Award. Her short story collection No One has any Intention of Building a Wall will be published by Fly on the Wall Press in 2021.
Residential option available. Find out accommodation costs and how to book here.
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
