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In this module you’ll focus on the practical application of a range of professional techniques, and on building the vital skills of pre-writing decision making, critical self-reflection and editorial dialogue. The module is a development journey, beginning with the foundational principles of first person writing: condition of narration, device and register. You’ll then begin to practise more complex techniques, such as subtext and counter narrative, the unreliable narrator and positioning an active reader.

Through weekly writing challenges and masterclass discussions, you’ll learn how to make fast, purposeful decisions about a story before writing, how to craft short pieces to briefs and deadlines, and how to critically analyse and improve upon early drafts. As well as gaining a detailed understanding of the demands of first person prose, you will develop the core professional practices you’ll need for the Trimester 2 Writing Practice options, Major Project, and the rest of your writing career.

Upon completion of this module you will be able to:
LO1: Critically evaluate a range of possible approaches to first person narrative
LO2: Exercise professional judgement in identifying the most effective techniques for a particular story
LO3: Analyse the function, limitations and possibilities of the first person position in narrative
LO4: Use the professional skills of pre-writing, critical self-reflection and editorial dialogue to develop your work
LO5: Produce ambitious and well-crafted short stories in the first person