Creating Writing module (EN52025)

This module aims to develop your creative writing and so, in many respects, it is the core element of our writing programme at Dundee, establishing key writing practices and approaches that are designed to explore your creativity and help you to discover the sort of creative project for which you are most suited.

For those on the Writing Practice & Study programme these skills can be continued, if you wish, into  Refining Writing  and then as the basis for a  Dissertation in Creative Writing+C85.

Assessment

Coursework makes up 100% of the assessment, as follows:

• One unified working draft manuscript (a sheaf of poems, short story/stories, extract of a novel, non fiction etc) up to a limit of 6,000 words (70%)
• One critical essay reflecting on aspects of the above work, utilising where relevant, research and critical theory skills taught in core MLitt Modules and/or specific skills gained in this Creating Writing Module, total 2,500 words (20%)
• One Literary Salon Report – involving description, analysis and, where possible, interview, total 1,000 words (10%)

Convenor

Prof Mark Robson

Teaching

The Programme is delivered in a combination of Workshops, Seminars, Tutorials and Literary Salons.

Workshops are practice-led and based around a number of key exercises to help establish develop writing patterns.

Seminars are called “Wordcraft” and teach students about poetics – whether or not they wish to be a poet – by combining a study of texts with practical creative exercises that are based on those texts.

“Stagecraft” is co-led by an actor from Dundee Rep Theatre who will instruct on writing for the voice – showing those aspects of “Wordcraft” that are relevant to the stage – rhythm, sound, length.

Tutorials are either individual – so student can have dedicated time with a tutor to focus upon writing ambitions or in small reading groups of three in which poetic form is dissected and imitated.

In addition there is “Open Door” a support session available for students who need extra support with their writing direction whereby appointments are made when needed, informally, and at the last minute.

There are also regular Literary Salons with important guests – from publishers and literary agents who provide means of professional development over the Module, to established writers and students presenting their own work.

Plus our Literary Festival, Magazine and other literary events in which students may choose to participate.

In all, this creates a feeling of loyalty and “ownership” of the distinct nature of the programme.