Creative Fiction Writing: Dr Ron Irwin 24 June to 29 July
Dr Ron Irwin. Photo Supplied.
This online course is designed for the creative writer who hopes to tangibly improve their creative work. Over the course of six two-hour sessions, we will explore the fundamental elements of creative writing. We will offer every writer the opportunity to have their fiction critiqued in class. The experience of having one's fiction read and critiqued by readers is invaluable. Participants want to know what their readership is thinking about their work, how effective they are, and what results they are getting.
This course has been designed to give participants the editorial principles that most acquisitions editors are taught to look for. Editorial issues such as characterisation, dialogue, tight plotting, and strong beginnings are the everyday work of the people who buy and publish fiction.
Participants will be asked to complete ten pages of fiction by the end of the course, and to have their work read and critiqued for effectiveness by the lecturer.
Session 1: Great openings
The sad truth about readers and editors, and why they need compelling beginnings.
Session 2: Story
What is it? How do I create one?
Session 3: Dialogue
What is good dialogue? Why is it the most important aspect of fiction?
Session 4: Description and place
Why do certain places stick out in our minds as ‘real’? Why do some characters in fiction seem to ‘leap off the page’?
Session 5: The crucible
The magic formula that makes your writing interesting.
Session 6: How to edit your own work
Why getting to ‘the end’ is only the first step.
Dates: 24 June to 29 July
Time: Saturdays from 10:00–12:00
Course fee
R1 800
UCT Staff and students: R900
Dr Ron Irwin is a professional lecturer and writer. He was the writer in residence for the University of Cape Town's prestigious MA in Creative Writing in 2008 after teaching on the programme for ten years. He has taught in the Centre for Film and Media since 2009 where he is a senior lecturer.
Ron is the author of two published novels, Flat Water Tuesday (St. Martins Press USA, 2013) and My Side of the Ocean (Pan Macmillan SA, 2023). Both have received wide praise from readers in the USA, Canada and South Africa. Find out more at www.ronirwin.com