Molino la Ratonera

"Reading, like writing, is a creative act" ~ Ben Okri

If you wish to gain more from your reading of novels, stories and poems, would like to share ideas with people who feel that way too and want to explore your own creative writing in a supportive and friendly environment, then this course could be right for you. It is designed for those wishing to enhance their enjoyment of reading by providing an introduction to the study of poetry and prose and aims to show that reading is an interactive, not a passive activity. The course aims to encourage sensitive reading and the development of an informed personal response both through literary analysis and through creative writing. No formal qualifications are needed, only the desire to get together, read, write, learn and discuss with like-minded people.

Poetry
On this part of the course, using a wide range of poems as source material, you will be encouraged to develop individual response; will become familiar with the appropriate technical terminology; will practise critical literary analysis and will be given the opportunity to develop your own creative writing in this genre.

Prose
Here you will explore the differences between poetry and prose; learn to identify concepts such as narrative stance, character, plot; characterise different styles of writing and explore ideas through your own creative writing.

Your tutor, Kath Chapman, has an honours degree in English and American Literature, a postgraduate teaching qualification and eighteen years experience as a lecturer in further and adult education. She has taught English language and literature at every level from pre GCSE to first year degree modules and has empathy and experience in working with adults choosing to further their learning.

The setting for the course is Molino la Ratonera, a restored watermill complex in an inspiring rural setting, amidst olive groves and in a lush river valley. The mill is west of Granada, Andalucia in southern Spain and provides the perfect setting in which to relax and share ideas with new friends. You will stay in one of five houses or apartments (all on site) and have your own private room with shared facilities. Accommodation will be allocated upon arrival. All meals are provided and the 3 course evening meal will be served in the restaurant situated in the restored mill building. The bar, situated in the mill room, has UK TV, free internet access and provides the perfect venue for evening entertainment.

The course is 20 hours long, over five days and you will be given a detailed scheme of the material to be covered at the start of the first session. Morning session is from 9.30am to 12.30pm with a half hour coffee break and the afternoon session is from 4.00pm until 5.30pm. The midday break is free time for preparatory reading, your own writing or, as we are in Spain, siesta! Saturday is a free day. We provide transport to Zagra to catch the 7:45am bus to Granada and to meet the 5:15pm return or there is the optional visit to Lorca's birthplace and museum at Fuente Vaqueros.