Overview
What does writing mean to you? What do you hope to achieve with your storytelling? What makes you stand out as a writer? This cohort is structured to help you gain relevant insights that will prove useful in the course of your personal writing journey. Writing—in whatever form— often feels like a thankless, lonely struggle. The sense of community helps make the burden less alien. In this retreat, by studying selected pieces—mainly short stories, narrative essays and memoirs—for different craft elements, and with regular writing exercises imbibing these, you will build your fluency on the page, strengthen your voice (or possibly find it), and improve your writing stamina. You will not be undertaking this journey alone.
Beginning with discussions and moving on to exercises, the class becomes a workshop where participants learn from each other and share resources while receiving guidance from the instructors.
For the duration of the retreat, we will have wide-ranging conversations about a story’s theme, plot, style, structure, and language.
We will also introduce techniques and digital tools that are invaluable to the writer and end with a session on the business end of things.
The writing exercises will help you digest the craft lessons and you will offer honest, respectful feedback on the works of fellow participants.
Learning Objectives
This course aims to achieve the following:
- Show that writing is an inclusive craft that can be learned with practice.
- Discuss the essential elements of writing.
- Acquaint participants with some methods and digital tools.
- Introduce participants to a network of creatives.
- Navigate the business end of the craft.
Learning Outcome
At the end of this course you should be able to:
- Explore different genres and styles of writing
- Create original works of literature integrating the elements of writing in your own voice/style.
- Identify and creatively explain topics/questions in an evocative manner to the reader.
- Demonstrate an appreciation of writing techniques and digital tools for research, editing and publishing.
- Distinguish the available options for publishing your work.
- Apply the basic steps to reward your effort with the monetisation of your work.
- Enjoy and retain the benefits of a growing support network.
Who is it for?
Writing is the crucible of all media creations. From books to music, movies, podcasts, etc, there is practically nothing you can build or create without writing.
This cohort is for budding creatives who wish to develop confidence in their ability to deliver good works that add value.
The most important point to note is this: Talent is essential, but not so much; developing sheer grit and commitment to the craft is the sure way to becoming a skilled and successful writer.
Requirements
You only need internet access, a desire to create and the willingness to attempt the activities of this course.
Welcome!
