Writing from Life

Description of Class

About this course Your childhood memories, those old photographs in a shoebox, the letters hidden away in your grandmother’s wardrobe... The diaries you kept when trekking across the world, yesterday’s newspapers, or perhaps just what you saw out of the bus window this morning... Any of these could be the spark to ignite a new writing project. This project might end up as a memoir, biography or short story. It might perhaps become a travelogue or another form of narrative non-fiction; or evolve into fiction or poetry. But wherever it ends up, it’s starting point will be true-life stories and experiences – yours or other people’s. In this practical, one-day Writing from Life workshop we will look at inspirational examples of memoir, biography, travel writing and autofiction; and employ creative writing exercises to develop skills. We’ll aim to make it a fun and relaxed day, and there will be no pressure to share your writing if you choose not to. Suitable for All welcome, with any level of writing experience. Come with a project already started or envisioned, or come with a blank page and an open mind – there are no pre-requisites! Your tutor Dorothy Max Prior writes and edits non-fiction books, stories and essays. Her memoir 69 Exhibition Road was published by Strange Attractor Press in 2022, and her latest book, Sex is No Emergency will be out in May 2025. Max has performed, directed and taught creative writing, drama and performing arts at arts centres, festivals and universities across the world. She has also written about theatre, performance, art and music for over 30 years, and is editor of Total Theatre Magazine. www.dorothymaxprior.com Testimonials ‘Max is very positive and encouraging.’ ‘Inspirational and relevant.’ ‘The other students were respectful and kind and interesting. Max offered incisive feedback and was an inspiration.’ ‘I liked the relaxed atmosphere.’ ‘Knowledgeable tutor! Positive environment, great teacher, interesting group.’