Working with the following writing prompt:
You/your protagonist is sitting on a train, eyes wandering as the world outside passes by. The carriage is quite empty, you have the surrounding seats to yourself. Suddenly, you’re aware of a person approaching, and who, of all the seats available, sits opposite you. You feel their presence. You look up, meet their stare then look away, until the person leans forward and says ‘you don’t remember me, do you?’
Why should you remember them? What happened in the past? What will be the outcome? Is it mistaken identity or a dark secret rearing its head after too many years?
What will be the energy of your story - happiness, danger, deceit, denial?
Based on this writing prompt, this workshop builds a story during the course of the day, in the process revisiting the key ingredients necessary to deliver a rich, compelling story. And not only is it great to create a brand new and fresh story, it is invaluable practice for other projects we have on the go.
Venue: Southbank, London SE1
Address: National Thetare, Southbank Centre, London SE1
Date: Saturday 6th September 2025
Time: 10am - 5pm
Price: £47
Duration: 7 hours, including lunch/coffee breaks
Class Size: Maximum 10 students (6 required for workshop to proceed)*
(*Once enrolled, should the course not go ahead and there’s no alternative you’d like to transfer to, you will receive a full refund. Please note: refunds via PayPal or Eventbrite can take 3-5 working days.)
Format: in-group discussion & writing exercises via comprehensive worksheets.
Age: all ages, though 16s and under to be accompanied by an adult.
(I am DBS checked)
This creative writing workshop is suitable for beginners, writers with projects underway or those looking for a fresh injection of inspiration. It is perfect for all genres and also those wishing to write short stories.
Workshop description: Whether new to creative writing or a seasoned author, this workshop focuses on exploring and practising (via writing exercises) the key ingredients necessary to bring together to make your writing sparkle, and to deliver the very best reader experience possible.
No matter your chosen genre (be it crime, sci-fi, romance, a biography), the lessons taught will allow your writing to form the deep bonds and connections required to hook your reader and keep those pages turning, building a delicious momentum as your story/novel reaches its conclusion.
In fiction writing, we’re creating a literary experience relevant to the genre in which we’re writing. Our readers want escapism; they want to be entertained, gripped, thrilled, moved emotionally (again, relevant to our chosen genre). And so, by learning the techniques and triggers to deliver that, we will be well on our way to creating truly memorable work.
With comprehensive accompanying notes, this workshop is a wonderfully-creative, insightful and inspiring day. And there’s nothing like being in the company of fellow-creatives to really flex our imaginations.
Some of the key elements you will learn/revisit:
Structure
Character
Location
Dramatic event
Reaction to dramatic event
Resolution
Plotting, plot twists & pace
Plus, you will gain insights into the delivery of your story, creating the very best reader experience possible.
Reviews: “Such an exciting day which really kickstarted my writing. And so much fun!” Sarah, Oxford.
“This workshop is a game changer. It opened my eyes to everything that’s required to write a full, rich book. I learn best by actually doing it, rather than being in a classroom. Superb!” Ryan, Bromley.
FAQ
Are there any session requirements? Yes, you’ll need basic written and spoken English skills to benefit from it.
Is previous creative writing experience required? No.
Are there any other costs? No, unless you wish to buy food or refreshments on the day.
Is there anything I need to bring? Just your own writing materials – pens, pencils, paper etc.
Thank you for reading and should you have any questions, please don’t hesitate to email me on: dominic@creative-writer.co.uk
I very much hope to work with you on your writing goals.
Best wishes & happy writing!
Dominic
Dominic Canty
dominic@creative-writer.co.uk
www.creative-writer.co.uk
