Creative writing using constraints

What is the course about?

This course will look at examples of constraints created by some of the Oulipo’s main proponents, with work including the Hundred Thousand Billion Sonnets, the Metro Poem, and others. Course participants will have the opportunity to try out several techniques, and invent one or two of their own. In addition, there will be suggestions for further reading.

What will we cover?

- What are creative constraints?
- How does the Oulipo's techniques differ from other approaches to creative writing?
- What are the main techniques employed by Oulipians? We will look at a range of constraints and examples of some of them in use. These will include the lipogram, tautogram, N+7, preverbs and style exercises.
- You will also have the opportunity to try out some techniques and attempt to create your own.

What will I achieve?
By the end of this course you should be able to...

- Understand what creative constraints are, and how they can be used in your writing.
- Use several Oulipo techniques as part of your creative writing “toolkit”.
- Know which books to read to further your familiarity with Oulipo writings and techniques.
- Strengthen your discussion and feedback skills.

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

This is an introductory course. No previous knowledge or skills are required. Energy and enthusiasm are more important than writing experience.

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

A mix of small group work, group discussion, tutor instruction, analysis tasks and writing tasks. You may be asked to complete a short pre-course questionnaire to help the tutor determine the most suitable level and type of material.


All writing courses at City Lit will involve an element of workshop. This means that students will produce work which will be discussed in an open and constructive environment with the tutor and other students. The college operates a policy of constructive criticism, and all feedback on another student’s work by the tutor and other students should be delivered in that spirit.

For classes longer than one day regular reading and writing exercises will be set for completion at home to set deadlines.

City Lit Writing endeavours to create a safe and welcoming space for all and we strongly support the use of content notes in our classes. This means that learners are encouraged to make their tutor and classmates aware in advance if any writing they wish to share contains material that may be deemed sensitive. If you are unsure about what might constitute sensitive content, please ask your tutor for further clarification and read our expectations for participating in writing courses at City Lit.

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

You will need a notebook and pen and, if possible, a printed dictionary.

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

City Lit offers a broad range of writing courses that will help you take your writing further. To learn more of the options, please explore the different categories on the website.

All students are invited to join us at Late Lines, our regular performance night for City Lit writers. Students are also encouraged to submit their work to Between the Lines, our annual anthology of creative writing. For the latest news, courses and events, stay in touch with the Department on Facebook and Twitter.