If not all, then let’s say for most writers the goal is some kind of publication. To share your work, your words with an audience, to be read, to be validated. We often begin our journey as authors when we we’re moved by a story, a compulsion to mimic this in another story forms. Personally speaking, there are few (OK, maybe one or two) experiences that trump a journal arriving by post with our work in it, perhaps illustrated, maybe sharing space alongside writers we’ve long admired. Or to be placed in a competition.
And as a teacher, a close second is hearing about former participant’s success, publication news that brings us enormous delight.
Here are a few recent examples of work composed during one of my workshops:
Roberta Beary’s piece was joint-winner of this year’s Bridport Prize.
David Ralph has a story written on the course forthcoming in The Dublin Review.
Kerry Byrne went on to achieve a distinction in her MA and continues to find homes for pieces written during her time with us.
Rachael Smart boasts a burgeoning CV, forging an irresistible aesthetic of her own.
As is Katie Lodge.
Danny Beusch went on to be shortlisted for the prestigious Manchester Fiction Prize (sadly missing out on the £10,000 first prize).
Many more alumni have seen their work in print and online after studying with us, although for some just learning about this enchanting literary form is reward enough.
The bespoke courses here at Unthank are carefully designed, offering, we hope, a balance between knowledge, wisdom, insight and fun.
Our Introduction to Writing Short Stories is tailored to suit both beginners and those with some experience of the form, and the next 8-week course begins on January 9th 2023. You can read more about it and register here . Or email us for more information.
You can also read more on why I feel short stories are particularly important just now here.
We look forward to working with you in creating some prize-winning fiction…or maybe just some cracking short stories.
Unthank Short Fiction Tutor Tom Vowler
