How 'new' is meant by 'new to writing' when choosing a writing course?

[justaftb]

I really want to take part in a writing course. I've got some little bits of writing I'd never want to share with anyone and lots of ideas. Beginner courses always say something like if 'you are new to writing' or at the 'beginning of your writing career'. I am terrified that I will join a course only to find that other participants have already written much more than me, but still consider themselves new. I'm worried I'll be expected to share something quite early in a course. Is it acceptable when 'sharing' (argh! that makes me feel so scared!) to share based on what you created for exercises for the class?

I've had a really, really difficult 12 months and finally want and need to do this thing I've always wanted to do. I am terrified of somehow making a fool of myself in a class setting, but also know that what I need right now is some sort of framework and support to set me on the road.

Classes will vary but the principles are usually that there are class exercises and homework covering different genres and styles with advice and tips on achieving the best work you can. Everyone is encouraged to read out their writing but for participants to be constructive and non-judgmental when discussing each others' writing.

A good course tutor will manage the class so that it is inclusive and act to prevent certain characters dominating or derailing things and close down expressions of discrimination of all kinds. However, fictional characters and situations may give rise to some dubious views expressed.

The atmosphere should be supportive and encouraging.

There cn be a wide range of abilities and previous experience in the class and this is often a good and productive thing as everyone learns from each other. A rule is usually observed that what happens in the class is confidential, as inevitably individuals will write from the heart and the best outcome is from being able to write honestly. There should be no pressure to share but classes do work on a workshop methodology so participating fully is encouraged.

It's fun, challenging and rewarding in the right class and you will only find out by giving it a go. HTH

over-use of the word encouraged

Thanks snowspider. That does help! I need to get over this terrified feeling. I think I am approaching the point where the balance between the terrified feeling and the lifelong need to write is tipping in the favour of writing. I know that if I don't do it, it will be my biggest regret.

Definitely give it a go. Do you have a course in mind? I have done residential courses and local authority and enjoyed both types. I haven't tried online as I wasn't sure that would work for me. I gave up my local class during covid but I might go back next term if there is a free place (massively popular tutor).

snowspider I want to do something that is in-person. I am in London, so there is a wide choice of classes that I can get to. But I really need a change of scene, too, to get out of my current environment, so a residential course would be ideal. I know me and know the focus from a concentrated period of time would suit me. And the fact that there wouldn't really be a chance to run and hide if the nerves kicked in! I know that based on how I currently feel, that if I sign up for a course that is one evening a week split over a number of weeks, if I have a wobble, I will just stop turning up.

I've been taking some 1-to-1 swimming lessons the past few weeks to help overcome me fear of being out of my depth. I booked the classes so they are close together. On the second evening I jumped into the deep end and then did it again immediately and then again. And I felt less and less afraid because I didn't let time elapse between each jump. That's kind of what I feel about being on a residential course - I will have to 'jump in', and because each 'jump' isn't separated by a week or more, I won't have too much time to let the fear build back up again.

I have done an evening course at Westminster University which was excellent.

Also done Arvon Foundation and most recently Ty Newydd and a literature festival based Curtis Brown one.

Ty Newydd is a lovely house, and the food was brilliant. The accommodation was good too. If I was choosing between Arvon at Hebden Bridge and Ty Newydd I would pick the Welsh one. Unfortunately they aren't running 2021 courses due to covid. I haven't been to the other Arvon locations.

The residential courses do offer that intense experience and you still have time to retreat and write between sessions. Fellow writers are generally respectful of personal space but also there will be lots of opportunities to chat and get to know each other.

Thanks again snowspider! I know about Arvon, but not about Ty Newydd. A pity there are no courses running as I love Wales. I will look at the offering from Westminster University, too. I am feeling encouraged. Might just jump...soon.

In terms of your first question, OP, it might be up to the point of having slogged through finishing a book having learned the lessons from that process though others might think differently. Ask the question of the providers you like the look of. If your goal is to publish then unless you have industry links, the Curtis Brown Creative and Faber ?might give you an 'in' to the table.

Good luck.

Zilla1 Thanks. It would be a dream to publish, but that is not my goal because disappointment that way would lie. The writing itself would be the thing. My goal is to create pieces (could be any length) that capture the scenes that float through my head and capture them in a way that gives them substance on the page. To feel that an idea was fully followed through and that the resulting piece was complete. And that the writing could make a reader feel something.

I have been rereading the Jackson Brodie novels by Kate Atkinson and finished the latest (final) one in the series last night. I think she is a brilliant writer. Towards the end, there was a really short passage that made me catch my breath, a proper physical reaction. And I'd already read that book before! If I could write one story in my life that could have that affect on someone, I'd be a happy person.

I'm rambling. I think I am having a mid-life crisis!

OP, that sounds like the best reason to write.

I know you said you want an external impetus but could you carve out a few hours and write? There are two extremes, seats of pants writers who write where the stories go and plotters who plan the story, chapter plans, possibly write character biographies and so on. Try to write to understand yourself a little more. If it doesn't flow then there are lots of prompts and tools on line. If you can find your groove then it might save you some time and money.

Good luck.

I think it sounds like the right thing for you.

If you are concerned, in fact just if you are considering a course, talk to the tutor / course convener.

They should be able to give you more detail about the course and usual cohort and you can decide if that is the eighth one for you.

Added bonus is that you get to see if you have a rapport with the teacher.

If not, try another