WORDSMITH:  Memoir, Fiction & Autofiction (fictionalised autobiography/memoir) 

Waiheke Island,  12 – 16 JULY 2021

This course is an introduction to the art of writing short fiction and/or memoir, suitable for both beginner and more advanced writers. The 5 sessions include exercises as learning tools plus time to workshop ideas with support and guidance.

1 – Introduction. Story arc. Scene, characters, action. Theme. Dialogue. Events as stories, not anecdotes.

2 – Crafting a personal story. First person. Self or fictional self as main character. Self as narrator. Voice. Central question. Diary/Letter/Narrative. How many details are too many?

3 – Bringing character and plot to life. Select, shape, style. Choose key scenes or segments.

4 – How to convey setting. What does a reader need to understand place? Context and plot. Symbolic structures. Condensed scenes.

5 – Building tension. Engagement: escalating thrills/involvement. The climax. Endings.

To apply: phone WAL office on 3729868 or email office@wal.org.nz

Venue: Waiheke Adult Learning, Waiheke Island, walking distance from the ferry.

Fee: $195

Dates: Monday 12, Tuesday 13, Wednesday 14, Thursday 15, Friday 16 JULY 2021

Session Times: 10 am – 1 pm

Tutor: Caroline Lark www.carolinelark.com