Cambridge, United Kingdom

Creative Writing Summer Programme

when 2 August 2020 - 15 August 2020
language English
duration 2 weeks

This programme builds on a rich literary tradition at Cambridge and is designed for those wishing to develop their existing writing skills, either for professional use, or out of personal interest. Courses focus on the writing of fiction and non-fiction, in a range of genres and styles. Course Directors – all established writers – will set practical daily writing tasks and guide you in critical reflection on your own work and that of your fellow students, as well as on the work of published writers.

The academic programme
- One course per week (meeting twice a day)
- Plenary lectures
- Evening talks
- Contact hours: up to 49 hours

Programme description
Courses focus on the writing of fiction and non-fiction, in a range of genres and styles. Course Directors – all established writers – will set practical daily writing tasks and guide you in critical reflection on your own work and that of your fellow students, as well as on the work of published writers.

The programme is intentionally rigorous, and you should expect to spend around two hours per weekday writing as private study. Given these requirements, you will need to demonstrate a very high level of fluency in English, as well as providing a 300-400 word statement explaining your reasons for applying and what you hope to gain from the programme.

"The ideal programme for those seeking to develop their writing skills through practical work and informed discussion in a supportive academic context." Professor Jem Poster, Programme Director, Creative Writing Summer Programme

Courses

You choose one course per week from five practice-based courses (this class meets twice a day, morning and afternoon). Whichever course you choose you will be writing and submitting a creative piece of 350-400 words, four days a week.

These creative pieces form the basis of class-based discussion – you should expect your work to be critically evaluated by both peers and the Course Director, and to participate actively in a mutually supportive writing community. The maximum class size is 15 participants.

You can write one essay per course for evaluation. The following have been invited to teach courses:

Week 1 (2 – 8 August)

Group Wa: 9.15am - 10.45am and 1.45pm - 3.15pm
Wa1 - The art and craft of fiction I. Writing plot. What's the big idea? Dr Sarah Burton
Wa2 - Telling tales in fiction I. Structuring your story Ms Miranda Doyle
Wa3 - Exploring fiction I. Memory, imagination, research Professor Jem Poster
Wa4 - Writing non-fiction I. Lives - past and present Mr Derek Niemann
Wa5 - Adventures in fiction I. Approaching fiction Ms Elizabeth Speller

Week 2 (11 – 17 August)

Week 2 (9 - 15 August 2020)
Group Wb: 9.15am - 10.45am and 1.45pm - 3.15pm
Wb1 - The art and craft of fiction II. Writing character. Who and why? Dr Sarah Burton
Wb2 - Telling tales in fiction II. Finding a voice Ms Miranda Doyle
Wb3 - Exploring fiction II. Place, character, voice, action Professor Jem Poster
Wb4 - Writing non-fiction II. People and places Mr Derek Niemann
Wb5 - Adventures in fiction II. Keeping the reader in your fictional world Ms Elizabeth Speller

Plenary lectures
Morning plenary lectures will be given by published writers and figures from the world of publishing, who will address a variety of matters related to their own work and to the craft of writing itself.

Evening talks
Eminent speakers will present a variety of general interest talks. These are shared with students on our other programmes.

Course leader

Dr Jem Poster

Target group

We welcome applications from all adult learners including university students, professionals and those with other experience who have an interest in the subject, regardless of educational background.

Fee info

GBP 0: See official website