50003 Introduction to Novel Writing
8cpRequisite(s): (50123 Narrative Writing OR 50243 Narrative Writing) AND (50223 Writing Short Fiction OR 50307 Ficto-Critical Writing OR 50308 Creative Non-Fiction OR 50002 Introduction to Short Fiction)
Professional Strand – Writing – 300 level
Subject coordinator: Dr Mandy Sayer
This is an introductory class in novel writing for students who have some background in fiction writing but who have yet to embark on writing a longer piece of work. Through a range of exemplary texts students firstly examine ideas about novel writing in a historical and cultural context; they then explore narrative strategies and ways to sustain the writing of a longer work of fiction by workshopping their own material. Experimental forms of the novel as well as more traditional narratives are considered. Students are expected to work consistently and intensively to produce the opening chapters or the short draft of a novel, 5,000 words in length, to be presented as a work-in-progress to the class. The emphasis is on process and consistency in output rather than on polished results. Students also develop their critical skills: reading and giving feedback on the final manuscript of another student is an important part of the assessment process. The intention is for students to end the semester with the confidence to continue writing longer fiction and the basis for a completed novel.
Typical availability
Autumn semester, City campus
Spring semester, City campus
Detailed subject description.
Fee information
2009 contribution for post-2008 Commonwealth-supported students: $866.83
Note: Students who commenced prior to 1 January 2008 should consult the Student contribution charges for Commonwealth supported students
Not all students are eligible for Commonwealth Supported places.
2009 amount for undergraduate domestic fee-paying students: $2,900.00
Note: Fees for Postgraduate domestic fee-paying students and international students are charged according to the course they are enrolled in. Students should refer to the Annual Fees Schedule.
Subject EFTSL: 0.167Access conditions
Note: The requisite information presented in this subject description covers only academic requisites. Full details of all enforced rules, covering both academic and admission requisites, are available at Access conditions and My Student Admin.
