Overview

This module involves the production of an extended piece of creative writing of high quality, with an attached commentary, a brief synopsis and/or introduction to the work as appropriate, and relevant references. The main focus of the dissertation is the piece of creative writing, which can be undertaken in any genre after agreement with the supervisor, and must be preceded by a 500 word plan of work to be completed and submitted via Turnitin by the end of Week 6.

The critical piece, of 1,500 words, can be in a style similar to that of a critical literature essay, or it can be more focused on creative practice or the contextualization of that creative practice, and can use the student’s own work as one of the reference points, as well as containing references to the work of other writers.

The length of the dissertation varies according the genre and is the subject of discussion with the supervisor, but as a guide the total number of words for a prose fiction submission would be between 6,000 and 8,000 words.

A poetry submission will be much shorter. A certain number of poems, usually 20-25, will be agreed with the supervisor rather than a word count. The exact number will depend on the length and complexity of the poems proposed.

The dissertation provides a valuable opportunity for independent exploration and innovation in a literary context. While (if working in fiction) students may choose to work in a particular genre, they will be encouraged to extend its boundaries by challenging market-led stereotypes. At all times they will be encouraged to produce work of high literary and imaginative quality, enhanced by a professional standard of presentation.

A series of introductory lectures will address practical issues and provide a forum for discussion of work in progress, but most of the module consists of independent study supported by six individual supervisory meetings spread throughout the year.

This module involves the production of an extended piece of creative writing of high quality, with an attached commentary, a brief synopsis and/or introduction to the work as appropriate, and relevant references. The main focus of the dissertation is the piece of creative writing, which can be undertaken in any genre after agreement with the supervisor, and must be preceded by a 500 word plan of work to be completed (submitted via Turnitin in Week 6). Students will be supported in producing this plan which will help give focus and structure to the project as they move forward.

The critical piece, normally of 1500 words, can be in a style similar to that of a critical literature essay, or it can be more focused on creative practice or the contextualization of that creative practice, and can use the student’s own work as one of the reference points, as well as containing references to the work of other writers and genres which have shaped their approach.

The length of the dissertation varies according the genre and is the subject of discussion with the supervisor, but as a guide the total number of words for a prose fiction submission would be between 6,000 and 8,000 words.

A poetry submission will be much shorter. A certain number of poems, usually 20-25, will be agreed with the supervisor rather than a word count. The exact number will depend on the length and complexity of the poems proposed.

The dissertation provides a valuable opportunity for independent exploration and innovation in a literary context. While (if working in fiction) students may choose to work in a particular genre, they will be encouraged to extend its boundaries by challenging market-led stereotypes. At all times they will be encouraged to produce work of high literary and imaginative quality, enhanced by a professional standard of presentation.

A series of introductory lectures will address practical issues and provide a forum for discussion of work in progress, but most of the module consists of independent study supported by six individual supervisory meetings spread throughout the year.

Assessment Strategy

-A (70%>) Excellent levels of originality, vision and depth; striking and thorough engagement with ideas. Excellent understanding and control of form and technique. Impressive linguistic control and/or innovation. Sophisticated critical understanding of the creative process and confident ability to conceptualise approaches to writing. Dynamic work.

-B (60%>) Demonstration of vitality and originality; sustained engagement with ideas. Very good understanding of generic conventions; sound use of structures, forms and technique. Resourceful and imaginative use of language. Clear critical understanding of the creative process and ability to think conceptually about decisions made in writing. Very good work.

-D (40%>) Original and interesting work with an attempt at serious exploration of ideas. Clear link between themes and form. Technically proficient and well-focused use of language. Sound critical understanding of the creative process and of decisions made in writing. Generally good work.

Learning Outcomes

• Demonstrate independent working skills on a long writing project, relating this project to the work of other writers (both known/established and class peers).

• Evaluate critical and cultural theories and concepts and describe their significance for creative practice

• Explain and reflect on creative processes and practices, and to develop new writing strategies as a result of critical self-reflection.

• Identify and originate a writing project from an initial concept, to extend this into aspects of writing form and function;

• Produce writing that demonstrates command of the form, medium, and linguistic register in which the student is working.

• To discuss their own creative writing in relation to a culturally and historically broad range of writing styles, forms, and genres