Advanced Creative Writing

Overview

How do authors develop an initial idea into a completed work of fiction? A practical course covering all aspects of novel writing from character creation, story development to final edit. Designed to engender confidence and good writing practice for aspiring novelists.

The development of online publishing opportunities at University of Oxford has given rise to an increased commercial success of the self-published author. Beginning with an investigation of how fiction can be created from the writer''s own experience, this course will explore the techniques used to develop and structure a sustained piece of original prose to a commercially viable standard. We will look at character creation and development across a variety of genres. We will learn how to assess the thematic content of contemporary fiction and how this is expressed in the progression of plot. We will examine how description and metaphor are used to support narrative purpose. At the same time, we will explore the role of the writer as self-editor and how close-reading and critical thinking can enable improved confidence in the development of a unique, individual voice which will appeal to a broad readership.

Advanced Creative Writing Course aims

• Understand how to develop their ideas into a coherent, engaging and commercially viable piece of fiction.
• Become familiar with a range of fiction genres and learn how to shape their work accordingly.
• Critically analyse and discuss their own work with an awareness of the expectation of a public and professional readership.
• Learn the practical skills of self-editing and planning essential for the continuation and completion of their individual writing projects.
• Further develop confidence in their own original writing style.

Accreditation

FHEQ level 5, 10 CATS points