North Island College has shifted its creative writing classes to two evenings a week. According to local creative writing instructor Derek Hanebury, the move comes in response to community requests. “Many people have told me they’d love to take one of my writing courses, but they can’t get the time off work. By offering the classes in the evening, we’re hoping to give those people a chance to develop their talents.”
The College will be offering two courses beginning this January. English 107 is an introduction to creative non-fiction and fiction writing, while English 108 is an introduction to writing poetry and drama, including screenwriting. Hanebury, who instructs both courses, explained that the courses follow a similar format with each class including discussion of various aspects of writing craft, writing exercises, and time to share each other’s work.
“Many people think that writing can’t be taught,” says Hanebury, “but that’s just not true. Learning about the elements of good writing and practicing them can help anyone become a better writer.”
Hanebury is just completing the draft of a new book of creative non-fiction while on a four-month writing sabbatical, and he is looking forward to getting back to the classroom. “There’s a special synergy that can happen in the classroom when writers come together around their common goal of improving their work. I can’t wait to feel that again.”
English 108: Poetry and Drama begins Monday, January 7th, and English 107: Creative Fiction and Non-Fiction begins Tuesday, January 8th. Both classes are offered in the evening from 6:00 – 9:00 p.m. Entrance is available to anyone with a C+ in English 12 or by portfolio with the instructor’s permission.
For more information, please contact Derek Hanebury at 724-2146. For general information on North Island College and its programs, please visit www.nic.bc.ca.
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