Theory and Writing (57134)
Communication - University of Technology, Sydney
2009

Texts

y separately published work icon Searching for the Secret River Kate Grenville , Melbourne : Text Publishing , 2006 Z1293134 2006 single work criticism (taught in 4 units)

'Searching for the Secret River is the extraordinary story of how Kate Grenville came to write her award-winning novel, [The Secret River].

'It all begins with her ancestor Solomon Wiseman, transported to New South Wales for the term of his natural life, who later became a wealthy man and built his colonial mansion on the Hawkesbury. Increasingly obsessed with his story, Grenville pursues him from Sydney to London and back, and then up the Hawkesbury itself. Slowly she begins to realise she must write about him, and begins to discover what kind of book she will write. Grenville opens the door and invites the reader into her writing room, and tells us about how this novel was formed, the research she did, the false starts she made and the frustrations she experienced.' (Publisher's blurb)
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y separately published work icon The Secret River Kate Grenville , Melbourne : Text Publishing , 2005 Z1194031 2005 single work novel historical fiction (taught in 69 units)

'In 1806 William Thornhill, a man of quick temper and deep feelings, is transported from the slums of London to New South Wales for the term of his natural life. With his wife Sal and their children he arrives in a harsh land he cannot understand.

'But the colony can turn a convict into a free man. Eight years later Thornhill sails up the Hawkesbury to claim a hundred acres for himself.

'Aboriginal people already live on that river. And other recent arrivals - Thomas Blackwood, Smasher Sullivan and Mrs Herring - are finding their own ways to respond to them.

'Thornhill, a man neither better nor worse than most, soon has to make the most difficult choice of his life.

'Inspired by research into her own family history, Kate Grenville vividly creates the reality of settler life, its longings, dangers and dilemmas. The Secret River is a brilliantly written book, a groundbreaking story about identity, belonging and ownership.' (From the publisher's website.)
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Degrees

Graduate Certificate in Screenwriting
Graduate Diploma in Writing
Master of Arts in Creative Writing

Description

This is a core subject for two of the graduate writing programs and one which provides valuable theoretical and historical contexts for students' own writing. It introduces students to major developments in literary theory and examines in close detail a number of key texts from several genres that illuminate the use of theory for the practising writer. It also introduces students to some of the major developments in western literature, such as realism, modernism and postmodernism, as well as to the narrative theories that underlie these developments, particularly in relation to contemporary writing. Students critically explore ideas on writing directly arising from their theoretical and other reading, both in classroom discussion and in their written work. Students also workshop their creative writing, which is expected to reflect aspects of writing and literary theory that has been explored in the subject.

This subject:

* contextualises writing by examining literary movements, ideas and developments

* promotes essential critical and creative thought in relation to reading and writing

* encourages a practical understanding of aesthetics and cultural debates

* encourages exploration and experimentation of ideas in writing practice.

At the completion of this subject, students are expected to:

a. Understand the relationship between literary theories and writing practices

b. Have developed their own critical voice

c. Apply that critical voice to their own work and that of others

d. Have improved their skills in analysing the writing of others

e. Appreciate the diversity and possibilities of theoretical approaches to writing

f. Be able to apply theoretical approaches to their own creative writing.

Assessment

Assessment item 1: A seminar paper of approx 2000 words, reflecting a close reading and analysis of the chosen topic and discussing the relationship between theory and literature.

Objective(s): a, b, c, d

Weighting: 50%

Length: Word Limit is 2,5003,000 words

Task: To present in class a seminar paper of no more than 2000 words, or 15-20 minutes. The presentations may be informal and should facilitate critical thinking and discussion generally. Students will be encouraged to circulate material for discussion before their scheduled class presentation via UTS Online. These presentations will reflect the student's analytic reading of the set text/s and demonstrate their ability to develop a critical argument based on theory.

Assessment criteria:

* Insightful reading of the set text/s

* Logical and thorough development of critical ideas

* Application of theoretical approaches/arguments to the set text/s

* Clarity and appropriateness of expression to the essay form

* Effective presentation of the work including correct referencing and bibliography.

Assessment item 2: A piece of creative writing in any genre demonstrating theory in practice

Objective(s): a, c, e, f

Weighting: 50%

Length: Word Limit is 3,000 words or equivalent

Task: Students will develop their own piece of creative writing by workshopping their work at least twice during the semester, either in one group or in smaller groups. The work is to reflect theory in practice in a way left open to the students. Risky, experimental and hybrid pieces will be encouraged, pieces that showcase the students' abilities to push the boundaries of literary possibilities yet remain faithful to the formal requirements of writing. This work is to be handed in at the end of the semester,and again students are encouraged to post draft material on UTS Online to generate feedback from peers.

Assessment criteria:

* Originality and imaginative quality of work

* Structural and stylistic accomplishment

* Creative reflection of theoretical approaches

* Effective presentation of the work.

Minimum requirements

Students are expected to read the subject outline to ensure they are familiar with the subject requirements. Since class discussion and participation in activities form an integral part of this subject, you are expected to attend, arrive punctually and actively participate in classes. If you experience difficulties meeting this requirement, please contact your lecturer. Students who have a reason for extended absence (e.g., illness) may be required to complete additional work to ensure they achieve the subject objectives.

Other Details

Levels: Postgraduate
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