It may seem strange thinking about rain while we are experiencing this dry, sunny weather but during my workshops recently, I have been exploring sensory detail with the groups and rain is incredibly evocative – covering all of the senses. The theme has triggered some powerful memories, poetry and descriptive prose. Rain can be very dramatic can’t it? I was in Poland a couple of weeks ago and there was a heat wave. It took some getting used to and it was a great relief when the rain fell…and boy, did it fall! It thundered and poured all through the night and the morning. It felt like a new beginning, a cleansing.
TRY THIS:
– Write a memory of rain, being as descriptive and specific as possible (use the senses as much as you can)
– Find a passage from a short story or novel on rain and continue in the style of the author. For example; Chris Abani’s opening in his Nigerian-based novel ‘Graceland.’
As with many writing techniques, when used sparingly – descriptive, sensory writing can be very effective. I tried a new Themed Workshop last week, ‘Writing The Senses,’ and content included eating raisins! I put some raisins in the hands of each group member – who had their eyes shut. I encouraged them to feel the texture before they opened their eyes and then taste them etc. They then wrote for 10 minutes. The writing was raw and focussed. They were in tune with their emotions and memories. The raisins were unexpected and a great trigger!
I am getting geared up for our block of three Summer Workshops, which start next Wednesday 8th July at our wonderful venue in Muswell Hill, N10, 7.30pm. We will cover a range of content and you are welcome to attend – whether your are new to Creative Writes or a returner. There are a maximum of ten places and some are already booked. Booking is in advance only. Please see the booking page on this blog:
The block of three workshops will be followed by our popular Themed Workshop ‘Myriad of Objects,’ on Wednesday 29th July, 7.30pm also at our regular venue in Muswell Hill.
There will be new dates for Themed Workshops and also blocks of Creative Writes workshops coming soon…
Bye for now, enjoy the weather!
Nichola
