The power of the pen

Through guided exercises explore writing that persuades, confronts and entertains: from the speeches of Barack Obama to the satire of Jonathan Swift and the suspense of Stephen King.

» Be the first to write a review.

» View full course outline

Key course information

Date
16/10/11

Day(s)
Sun

Duration
1 week

Time
10:30 - 16:30

Fees
Full fee: £47^NC

Venue
KS - Keeley Street

» View location

Course code
HW221

Availability
This course has finished

^NC: No concessionary fees available as there is no government funding for this course.

This course has finished

» Find another course in Humanities » Search all courses

Still got questions?
humanities@citylit.ac.uk or call 020 7492 2652

Course outline

What is the course about?

A one day course that explores various literary devices from cutting political satire to comedy and the inspirational
oratory of Barack Obama, and gives students an opportunity to try out techniques for themselves.

What topics will we cover?

This is a practical course. You will not just be introduced to ways the written word can inspire, influence and bite
back – through class exercises you will employ these techniques in your own writing, sharing them in a supportive,
confidence-building atmosphere.

By the end of this course you should be able to:

- identify a range of writing techniques and understand why they are employed
- apply some of these techniques to your own writing
- be willing to experiment and ready to take risks with your writing.

What level is the course and do I need any particular skills?

No previous writing experience is needed but you should have a good standard of written English and an interest in
using language creatively.

How will I be taught, and will there be any work outside the class?

You will be presented with a variety of examples from literature that will form the basis of in-class exercises and
tutor-led discussion.

The Tutor
A prize-winning short story writer, Bridget Whelan’s first novel A Good Confession was published in 2008 by Severn
House. She has a MA in Creative and Life Writing from Goldsmiths College where she now lectures on non-fiction
writing courses. She is also writer-in- residence at a community centre in Brighton. For more information and news
about writing opportunities visit her blog at http://bridgetwhelan-writer.blogspot.com/

City lit reserves the right to change course tutors or venues from those advertised in this outline. In line with our refund policy we are unable to grant a refund on the grounds of a change of tutor/venue.

Are there any other costs? Is there anything I need to bring?

Paper (A4 writing pad) and pen/pencil.

Do I need to have an interview before I can enrol?

No.

What feedback will I get?

You will receive regular feedback from your tutor throughout the course, as and when appropriate. At the end of the course you and your tutor are asked to assess the progress you have made.

How will I be able to give my views on the course?

Please complete the evaluation form at the end of your course. These are monitored and help us to continually improve our courses.

How do I find out if I can get some support for my learning?

You may be interested in: education and careers advice; financial and childcare support; disability support; support for Deaf and hearing-impaired students; dyslexia support; English and maths support; counselling, and library services (supported learning centre). To find out what may be available to you, and how to apply, see page 213 of the 11/12 course guide, or visit www.citylit.ac.uk/students

When I've finished, what course can I do next?

General Ways into Creative Writing Courses or specific courses such as Autobiographical writing; Playwriting; Writing for children; Writing short stories; Writing fiction etc.

General information and advice on courses at City Lit is available from the Information and Advice Shop, open Monday to Friday 12:00 – 19:00 during term time, and Monday to Friday 12:00 – 17:00 out of term time. See the course guide for term dates and further details.

Who can I contact for further information?

Tel: 020 7492 2652

humanities@citylit.ac.uk

Advice times:

During term-time Monday 12.30–13.30 and 17.30–18.30 Thursday 12.30–13.30 and 17.30–18.30

Non term-time Monday 17.30–18.30 Thursday 12.30–13.30.

To enrol on a course, call 020 7831 7831.