Writing Exercises

Create a character who is obsessed by something - firearms, D & D, family history, collecting china, travelling. What would it take for them to give up their obsession? Who in their lives might resent their obsession? Explore these potential conflicts.

Your character goes home after being away - for a wedding or Christmas, a funeral or an anniversary or to celebrate a birth. During this weekend, an old family feud erupts.

What is your (fictional) family's secret? Who finds it out and how? What are the ramifications of this?

Your character is stuck somewhere with someone she/he doesn't like. Gradually over the time they are together a different story emerges...

Novel 2A students - can you please all choose a chapter from a favourite novel - one that you feel has taught you something about the writing craft. Photocopy the chapter for the next class and write a half a page on what it's taught you. Thanks - these will form part of next semester's resource book.

Okay people - the rain (yes, you heard me correctly!) has cleared so I'm off to buy noodles. I'm sorry I couldn't magically wave the clouds in victoria's direction....