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Critical Reading For Writers with Laurel Cohn

  • Queensland Writers Centre Level 2 State Library Queensland South Brisbane Australia (map)
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All good writers are readers. Become a better writer by becoming a better reader.

What does it mean to read like a writer? The key is to read critically so you can read your own work critically; however, critical reading takes practice. In this workshop, literary expert and editor, Laurel Cohn, will teach you how reading the work of other authors will help you develop a range of technical skills and aesthetic ideas that will support your own writing. Through looking at a range of excerpts you will focus on different story elements that are relevant to both fiction and narrative non-fiction writers, such as voice, backstory, openings, introducing characters, point of view, setting and description.


Learning Outcomes:

You will improve your writing skill-set through practical exercises and group discussions in the key areas listed below:

  • The value of critical reading

  • How to analyse a piece of writing and recognise how or why it does or doesn’t work

  • Appreciate how other writers handle story elements such as voice, backstory, openings, point of view, description

  • Develop increased awareness about story elements in your own work.


Format:

This is a craft workshop for all writers. More information on program formats and level definitions can be found here. More information on program formats and level definitions can be found here.

About Laurel:

Laurel Cohn is an editor passionate about communication and the power of stories in our lives. Since the late 1980s, she has been helping writers prepare their work for publication. She works with writers, publishers, businesses and community organisations, and is a popular workshop presenter. She has a PhD in literary and cultural studies.

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FAQs

Are there ID or minimum age requirements to enter the event?

Unless otherwise stated, Queensland Writers Centre workshops and events are suitable for participants aged 16 years and over. If you are under 18 years of age, please check with us for suitability before purchasing a ticket. 

Membership will be confirmed on arrival, in the event it isn't current, membership will need to be arranged.

What are my transport/parking options for getting to and from the event?

Information on getting to the State Library of Queensland can be found here.

What can I bring into the event?

You can bring either pen and paper or a laptop along with you to write with. If you do bring a laptop, please remember to bring a power adaptor if necessary. 

Will this event be live streamed?

Queensland Writers Centre aims to provide material to its membership regardless of where they reside within Queensland by live streaming some events. Attendees may be broadcast periodically throughout the event as recording takes place. If you wish not to be filmed, let staff know prior to the event.

How can I contact the organiser with any questions?

You can contact us by phone on 07 3842 9922 or email us at admin@qldwriters.org.au

What's the refund policy?

If Queensland Writers Centre cancels an event, we will try to reschedule it for a later date. If we cannot reschedule the event, or if you are unable to attend on the amended date, your payment will be refunded in full.
Except in special circumstances, if you cancel a booking for, or are unable to attend an event, workshop, seminar, or course, Queensland Writers Centre cannot provide a refund. You can contact us to discuss your situation on 07 3842 9922 or email us at admin@qldwriters.org.au

Terms and Conditions

All information is correct at the time of publication. We reserve the right to make changes to the advertised program information (including course content and tutors), but if this occurs, we will try to provide as much notice as possible.
We expect that all participants will behave respectfully and professionally towards their tutor and fellow students. We reserve the right to remove anyone who behaves in an aggressive or disruptive manner. If a participant is asked to leave the class on this basis, we will not offer a refund.
We cannot accept responsibility for any loss, damage or expense sustained by students as a result of an event or circumstance whether arising from natural cause, human agency or beyond our control otherwise.

Earlier Event: 22 February
Writing Memoir
Later Event: 28 February
Writing Friday