106-225 Writing for Real

It is recommended that students wishing to continue with a major in Creative Writing also complete a first year subject in English Literary Studies as well as meeting the first year Creative Writing prerequisite (see below)

Usually 12.5 points of first year creative writing, either 106-186 Creative Writing: Autofictions or 760-101 Creative Writing: Ideas and Practice.

This subject explores elements of creative non-fiction by focussing particularly on what features of a piece of writing give it reality. We will be finding out what has been said about the way this production of the real world in writing functions. We will be reading many different kinds of literary essay, but we will also workshop pieces of writing such as photojournalism, the bureaucratic report and legislation in search of its real effects. We will then apply this to our own creative practice in a variety of writing, reading and editing exercises.

• have acquired skills in research and critical thinking an analysis;

• have acquired skills in written communication;

• have acquired skills with attention to detail and thinking in theoretical terms;

• have acquired skills understanding social, ethical and cultural context;

• have acquired skills in thinking creatively.

A 1500 word critical discussion 40% (due mid-semester); a 2000 word creative piece 50% (due at the end of the semester); and a class presentation equivalent to 500 words 10%. Students who submit work late without a formal approved extension will have marks deducted at the rate of 1% per day late.

A subject reader will be available from the University Bookshop.