I hadn’t studied literature since my school days, but a friend praised this course to the skies last year. Now I can see the praise was well deserved. My eyes were opened to the joy of short stories and poetry. I buttonholed friends and relations to enthuse after each class – reading them little titbits and getting them hooked too. The classes were split into half poetry and half a short story. We were given some hints for structure and what to look for, and we were able to apply these to specific pieces. The choice was very varied. Several times, by working through issues in class, I came to appreciate even pieces that I wasn’t so keen on at first reading. Some highlights were a published short story writer coming in to talk to us, and the last week based on choices from students (and some of our teacher’s own poetry). I couldn’t praise the course highly enough - and can’t wait for the next two terms!

A hugely enjoyable course from start to finish, with great and varied content and knowledgeable, enthusiastic and very high quality teaching. Couldn't recommend it highly enough.