Memoir is defined as an historical account or biography written from personal knowledge. Through example texts, exercises and discussion we will look at the benefits of recording our own stories, but will also try to bridge the gap between the personal and the public.
‘The poet needs to get beyond ego in order to become the voice of more than autobiography.’ Seamus Heaney.
Taking into consideration confidentiality and ethical issues, we will also look at the importance of internal distancing in relation to our creativity, and the process of creating something that is separate from its author.
Creative nonfiction, also known as narrative nonfiction and literary nonfiction, uses literary technique to record factually accurate narratives. It is an increasingly popular genre and art form in a world that is looking for deeper meaning in its narratives.
Whether you’re interested in recording experience to pass onto future generations, or if your ambition is to reach a wider audience with publishable work, this course will be useful to you.
This course is open to beginners and experienced writers. The Keynes Library is a lovely venue in the heart of London within easy access of Euston Square and Russell Square.
Maximum number of students 15.
Tutor: This course will be taught by London Lit Lab’s Lily Dunn, a novelist and creative nonfiction writer. Her first novel (Shadowing the Sun: Portobello Books) was semi-autobiographical, and her creative nonfiction is published by Granta, aeon and Litro. She is currently writing a hybrid memoir, and studying for a doctorate which is concerned with questions around the self in writing.
Date and time: Saturday 23rd March 2019
Location: Keynes Library, Birkbeck, University of London, 43 Gordon Square, London WC1H 0PD
Cost: £115 Early Bird, £139 Full fee
Further details here