Tales of fabulous new technology and undiscovered knowledge have enthralled audiences since Mary Shelley’s Frankenstein, or perhaps even the ancient myths of Talos or Daedalus. But what makes these work so well, and how can modern authors build upon all that has come before?

In this course, we will explore some of the classics of the genre, looking at how they succeed in practical terms. There will also be a brief introduction to some of the key scientific concepts that underpin many of these stories: we’ll look at how the constraints of known scientific reality can raise the stakes for your characters, and also how you can make a setting feel authentic and grounded even when it strays into the realm of the impossible. You’ll learn how to make a reader feel as though they understand the workings of a speculative world, even if it differs quite considerably from our own.

Following this introduction, we’ll get hands-on with some exercises, putting it all into practice. By the end of the day, you can expect to have a new piece of writing that might form the start of something bigger or may form a stepping stone for another work altogether. There will also be a chance to talk through specific details if you’ve already got a story of your own and want to make it the best that it can be.

What students need to bring

Notepad and pen, or laptop (optional)

Daily Timetable

Course teaching 11am–5.15pm
Students arrive 10.30am-11am (coffee optional)  
Morning teaching 11am-1pm
Lunch break between 1pm-2pm (lunch is not included)
Afternoon teaching 2pm-5.15pm (15 minute break, 3.30pm–3.45pm)
Teaching finishes 5.15pm  
 

Short courses are open to anyone aged 18 and over. The course fee covers tuition and materials where stated. You will need to bring all other items listed under the ‘Materials to bring’ section.

Refreshments

Coffee and tea are included in the course fee, but you will need to bring lunch with you to eat in the refreshments room. There are also plenty of other local venues to purchase food.

Access

If you have any specific access needs, we will need to know about your access requirements in advance. Please tell us about your needs in confidence by emailing: [email protected] This venue has steps to the front reception, with limited access via a side gate to the ground floor. There is a small lift to higher floors or stairs.

Safety

Short course students are required to sign a safety compliance form as part of West Dean Health and Safety regulations.

Refunds and cancellations

Please refer to our terms & conditions below.

Disclaimer

The information given is accurate at the time of publication. However, West Dean College reserves the right to cancel or amend courses if circumstances require.

Terms & Conditions