Life Writing: Form (Term 3)

About

The Bloomsbury group's pioneering exploration of new forms of expression went beyond art and fiction into what Virginia Woolf called 'The New Biography.' It was the start of memoir as we know it today — the extraordinary lives of ordinary people, full of life, voice, anecdote and personality, balancing, as Woolf described, the 'granite' of truth with the 'rainbow' of imagination. Now in its fifth year, this popular course invites people of all writing levels to explore their own 'rainbow and granite', guided by Charleston Reader-In-Residence, Holly Dawson. Drawing on Bloomsbury texts, as well as time in the house, the galleries and gardens, the course is an opportunity to generate new ideas, try different approaches and techniques, deepen your writing practice and develop your work. Each week features a range of exercises, activities and prompts, alongside reading and discussion. Holly is also happy to offer 1-1 time with students and provide feedback on work if they wish. The course runs from October to June with three 10-week terms. Students can book for one or two terms, or the whole year. Please be advised that spaces fill quickly.

Term III: Form

Form on story shapes, plotting, point of view, tenses and how to handle time in your work. What's the best way to tell your story - a linear narrative, a kaleidoscope of fragments, or a more fictionalised approach? Some students may feel ready for guidance on next steps, such as agents or publishing, for which Holly is happy to provide individual advice.