the essential construction kit for fiction writers
GETTING FROM A TO B: PLOT
27 FEBRUARY 2010
A journey requires a compass of some sort, at least a general sense of where we池e going. Some prefer just to set off, enjoy the scenery and see where the road takes them. Others plan the route meticulously and know exactly how to get to their destination before they even leave.
This workshop will demystify the challenges of plot, whether for a short story or in developing a novel. Using a series of fun and stimulating exercises, we値l find the best road map to help get us from A to B. Issues we値l consider will be: generating plot ideas; finding the right place to begin; different kinds of endings; and how to avoid a baggy middle!
We値l aim, by the end of the day, to have sketched out a complete story - or part of a story - with a clearer sense of how to shape our ideas to ensure that the reader has a hell of a ride.
METHODOLOGIES
The workshop might make use of many of the following methods:
ｷ analysis of short extracts from published fiction (short stories and novels)
ｷ individual writing exercises
ｷ writing in small groups/pairs
ｷ group discussion, interaction and feedback/critique
ｷ a short, optional follow up consultation to discuss work in progress with the workshop leader
JOURNEYING ON THE MAGIC CARPET: SETTING
23 JANUARY 2010
Through a combination of writing exercises and discussion, this workshop explores the role of setting and place in fiction. How do we weave the setting effectively into the action of the story? How much physical description of the surroundings should we be aiming to include? And what is the relationship between the characters we write about and the places in which they live, work, eat, sleep and dream.
In the course of the day, we値l go on imaginative journeys that inspire ideas for stories. We値l also mine our memories for real places that have touched us, and consider how they might find their way into our work.
METHODOLOGIES
The workshop may make use of many of the following methods:
ｷ analysis of short extracts from published fiction (short stories and novels)
ｷ individual writing exercises
ｷ writing in small groups/pairs
ｷ group discussion, interaction and feedback/critique
ｷ a short, optional follow up consultation to discuss work in progress with the workshop leader
These workshops are suitable for both beginners and more experienced writers; the emphasis throughout will be on constructive feedback in a supportive environment. The aim is to provide stimulus, inspiration and fun.
Rachel Connor, November 2009
wordplaycoaching@yahoo.co.uk