Writing Technique and Creativity Retreat with Kim Echlin
Take the opportunity to develop an idea, work on new or existing material, or revise a manuscript. We’re excited to have talented instructor Kim Echlin leading the “Writing Technique and Creativity” Write Now Retreat over the course of three days. Read the Q&A with Kim below to learn more about the retreat and the her unique teaching style.
What can students in your class expect?
Students can expect individual reading and manuscript appreciation with tips for improving their writing. Each writer will receive instruction specifically tailored to their individual needs. For example, I may work on writing prompts or character development with a beginner, and revision or plot-mapping with one who is experienced but finding they are stuck on something in particular.
What do you like most about teaching writing?
Every person has a story. I enjoy working with students to find a way to first discover it, and then tell it through the written word.
Will you be using any novels as examples? If so, what makes them good models to learn from?
I will provide a handbook with writing samples from James Joyce, Alice Munro, Leo Tolstoy, Sumerian mythology, and Grimm’s fairy tales. These pieces are all very diverse, but exemplify the works of masters from which writers at any stage can learn.
What is something unique you bring to this class?
Experience, both as an author and instructor. As a creative writing instructor at the School for Continuing Studies at the University of Toronto and a former Writer-in-Residence at the McMaster/Hamilton public library, I enjoy working with burgeoning and seasoned writers alike, in order to help them tell their story in the best way possible.
If there is one piece of advice you give your students, what is it?
The most important thing is to write; find a time that is regular, and write. I will talk more about this idea, as well as other tips, techniques, and strategies, during the retreat sessions.
About Kim Echlin
Giller Prize nominee Kim Echlin is a talented talented novelist, translator, editor, and instructor who helps students deepen their writing. A creative writing instructor at the School for Continuing Studies at the University of Toronto and former Writer-in-Residence at the McMaster/Hamilton public library, Kim brings her keen sense of narrative to each and every story she tells. Her 2009 novel, The Disappeared, was a nominee for the 2009 Scotiabank Giller Prize and has been translated into nineteen languages.
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How do you find regular time to write?
