Writing the Body

Overview 

This module focusses on the body and identity in creative writing. It encourages critical reflection on the relationship between the physical and the written word, and enables students to experiment with corporeality within their creative practice. The module will benefit students interested in exploring ideas of identity, character and the body in their work, and those who wish to develop more tangibility and concrete elements in their writing.

Programme 

• Transmorphing: the body as animal, (including ‘Mrs Fox’ by Sara Hall)
• Illness and disease in poetry, (including poems by Kathryn Bevis and Natalie Holborow)
• Nature writing and ‘other’ bodies, (including poems from This Common Uncommon by Rae Howells)
• The body as object (an exploration of the body as object in art and literature, including some ekphrastic writing prompts)
• The five senses (looking at how tangible, visceral imagery can affect and improve creative writing)

Learning Outcomes 

• Demonstrate awareness of a range of techniques available for writing about issues of character, identity and the body
• Integrate their understanding of contemporary theory into a reflexive and innovative writing practice.
• Produce a portfolio of writing assembled over the course of the module.
• Make constructive critical responses to their own and other students’ writing, and engage in appropriate revisions of their own work.

Assessments 

• Discussion contribution - 20%
• Written assignments - 80%

Reading Suggestions 

Reading suggestions will be offered throughout the course. 

Entry Requirements 

This course is for everyone. No previous experience is needed and there are no formal entry requirements. 

What Do I Need? 

As this is an online course, you would need the following: 

• Internet access.
  
• Access to a laptop or computer with a web camera and microphone; the use of headphones might also be of benefit.
• Use of the Chrome web-browser where possible.