Literature & Creative Writing

On completion of this module, you will better prepared to:

• identify integral elements of key literary texts that have been seminal examples of best practice in creative writing;
• apply stylistic approaches from literary texts studied to develop your own creative practice;
• verbally synthesise your knowledge, to produce informed critical positions on the texts and contexts of the class;
• craft your own ideas in written form, through completion of the creative writing assignment.

The first weeks of the module will explore a diverse range of both classic and contemporary short fiction and short form poetry, introducing and evaluating structures, ideas and stylistic approaches to creative writing.

This will be complemented part-way through the module by a workshop led by an expert. The remaining sessions will be devoted to writing workshops in fiction and poetry, where work in progress will be shared by the class as a forum for constructive feedback on creative writing practice.

An introductory, interactive seminar each week will be followed by a discussion exploring both text-based readings and audio-visual excerpts. Each class session will look at a particular text/texts in detail and discuss key elements of style, form, character, themes and related creative writing practice.

You should read the relevant texts in advance to get the most from your engagement and participation.

• Coursework: Final creative writing assignment in prose fiction or poetry (up to 1000 words). Due after the end of term. (80%)
• Coursework: Written critical reflection (500-750 words) on an existing piece of fiction or poetry that has inspired your creative work. Due after the end of term. (20%)

Further information:
One piece of creative writing, of a length and form to be approved by the module leader, considering the style of creative writing being undertaken (up to 1,000 words). Due after the end of term and worth 80% of the module mark, and a written critical reflection (500-750 words) on an existing piece of fiction or poetry that has inspired your own creative work. Due after the end of term and worth 20% of the module mark.

You will receive feedback on your creative writing, both formative and orally in a workshop setting during the term. You will receive written, summative feedback through the module VLE on your submitted assessments approximately two working weeks after your work’s submission.

• ECTS value: 0
• Requirements: You must be prepared to attend all classes and to spend about an hour a week preparing for each session
• This module is designed as an undergraduate Level 4 course. See Imperial Horizons level descriptors [pdf]‌