“Amateurs sit and wait for inspiration, the rest of us just get up and go to work.”
—Stephen King
Intensive Four-Day Writers’ Retreat in Tranquil Shropshire
This popular four-day residential course, held annually in an airy and light-filled studio at Leighton in Shropshire, will focus on the tools writers need to free their imaginations and improve their writing. Through discussions, readings and workshops, we will explore the genesis of fiction and creative non-fiction (including memoir and personal essay). To help us out, we’ll consider the thoughts and writings of published authors, the narrative and story structure of fiction, and the feedback and support of our course mates.
There is plenty of easy, local accommodation within the area, including a self-catering apartment within the house itself. Freshly prepared lunch and afternoon tea are included every day. All are welcome, regardless of experience. There is a strict maximum of six students. Please book early!
Course maximum: 6 students
£475/session + accommodation
Take a break. Take a breath. Take a risk.
Everyone has a story...and this four-day residential course in beautiful Shropshire will provide a safe place to identify and explore your own.
Write Now is pleased to collaborate with the Roger Newton & Daughter School of Decorative Finishes to bring you these yearly retreats in a truly outstanding setting.
SOLD OUT FOR 2024
Course Curriculum
Day One
Introductions, discussion of expectations and workshop schedule
Sensory Details
In-class reading and writing
Rules of Good Workshopping
Exercise: Jumping right in.
Exercise: I Contain Multitudes
Discussion
Day Two
Characterization and Point of View; Setting—Detail and Description
In-class reading and discussion
Exercise: Characterization
Exercise: Setting
Workshop/discussion
Day Three
Plotting & Dialogue
In-class reading and writing; discussion
Exercise: Plotting
Exercise: Dialogue
Writing Workshop: critiques count!
Day Four
Writing Workshop
Manuscripts should be typed, double spaced, with page numbers and your name on the cover. These will be handed out at the class the day before you are slated for workshop. This will give us time to read and contemplate your piece before discussing it. Submissions for instructor review should not be sent electronically.
