Arsi Universit

College of Social Science and Humanity

Course Title: Creative Writing
Course code: EnLa 3082
Compiled notes from different sources
1. What is Creative Writing?

Creative writing is an expressive form of literature; one which demands you
to use your own creativity, imagination and story to portray a particular
message, emotion, or plot. It defies the traditional bounds of other forms of
writing and is completely subjective to our own preferences and experiences.
2.2.
As a subject, it can really improve students’ writing skill, especially helping to improve their
essays and other forms of academic writing. 

But what exactly is it all about? And if you’re new to the subject, how can you get started? 

Creative writing is all about using your imagination and creativity to express ideas and thoughts
in a way which is personal to you. Quite simply, it’s about adding your own ‘flair’ to writing,
going beyond the traditional boundaries of academic or other technical forms of literature.

Learn more about what creative writing is, what the different types are, as well as some top tips
on how to get started - all with this helpful guide and introduction to creative writing.

What is creative writing?

As the name suggests, creative writing is a form of writing that goes beyond the traditional
realms of normal, professional, academic or technical forms of writing. 

Instead, it encompasses a number of different genres and styles across a whole range of fields of
both fictional and non-fiction writing; storytelling, playwriting, poetry, prose, journalistic, and
more. 

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Though the definition can be quite vague, creative writing can, for the most part, be considered
as any type of writing that is original and expressive of oneself. Typically, it can be identified by
an emphasis on narrative craft, focusing on elements such as character development, narrative
and plot, infusing its structure with imagination, invention and story. 

In this sense, creative writing can technically be considered any writing of contemporary,
original composition - it's bound by no standard conventions and uses a whole range of elements
in its craft.

In an academic setting, creative writing is typically divided into fiction, poetry, or scriptwriting
classes, with a focus on writing in an original style, not defined by pre-existing structures and
genres. 

2. What are the different types of creative writing?

Creative writing comes in many forms, encompassing a number of genres and styles. There are
lots of different types of creative writing, which can be categorized as fiction or non-fiction.
Some of the most popular being:

 Biographies 
 Fiction: novels, novellas, short stories, etc. 
 Speeches
 Poetry and spoken word
 Playwriting/scriptwriting
 Personal essays
 Speeches

What makes a good piece of creative writing?

First and foremost, it’s important to note that there is no pre-defined description of what it means
to create a ‘good’ piece of creative writing. As the very name suggests, creative writing is an
imaginative process, created by the individual with all their quirks and personalities.

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Creative writing doesn’t fit one set genre and therefore there will never be an umbrella definition
to describe the ‘perfect’ piece. Just think about a Gothic short story and then compare it to the
features of a great Romantic poem - the two are so very different - it wouldn’t be unfair to judge
them together. 

However, with that being said, there are a few general principles that you can follow to make
your creative writing as strong as it can be - by making it as authentic and true to you as possible:

 Know your audience - All great stories begin with a target audience in mind - because
it’s exactly what you need to know in order to really tailor your writing and connect with
them. Therefore, any creative writer should begin their writing by plotting out exactly
who they want to read their work. Once you have this in mind, your writing will naturally
begin to take direction and flow in a way that seems appropriate to your audience.
 Write what you know - Quite often, the best stories are those which we can connect to
and relate in one or another way to our own lives. Or, they’re stories which seem so
authentic that you could imagine it to be about the writer’s own life. Now, this doesn’t
mean that you quite literally have to write about your life, but drawing on knowledge you
have about different elements of our lives to give your story some authenticity and more
believability.
 Creativity is key - Creativity is one of the most important elements of creative writing.
It’s what sets you apart from other pieces of writing in your genre. Of course, this doesn't
demand that you write a tale about a totally fantastical and mythical world with unique
creatures - but simply use your creativity to think a little outside the box and put a unique
twist on things; using literary devices like metaphors, alliteration, and varied sentence
structure to make your work unique and interesting.
 Push your imagination - One of the great things about creative writing is that there is no
definition or rules on ‘how’ to write. It’s a much more subjective genre, and one which
relies heavily on your own interpretations. Therefore, you should push your imagination
to the limits to see what the end result could be. Some of the most interesting pieces of
literature are thought-provoking or make us question the writing or world around us -
where could your story take us?

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  Plot a loose story arc - Despite the loose bounds of creative writing, it is still advisable
to plot a loose story arc for any piece of literature you create. Story arcs are critical at
giving your writing direction and purpose, helping you to write the whole piece at a
good pace, without writing any superfluous content or ‘waffle.’ Follow your story arc,
and your writing will have a strong structure, pace and direction - keeping your readers
more engaged.

What are some techniques used in creative writing?

To make their writing stand out, writers often employ several creative writing techniques and
literary devices, including:

 Character development - The process of creating a well-rounded, realistic character

with depth, personality, and clear goals or motivations.
 Plot development - The story of your piece of writing - how it develops, unfolds, and
moves along in time.
 **Point of view **- The perspective from which a narrative is told. It indicates who is
telling the story and how the information is conveyed to the reader. Quite often writers
will play with the point of view of the central character or protagonist to trick the reader
and twist their perspective. 
 Dialogue - Refers to the speech and conversations characters use to speak to one another.
Dialogue and the language choices a character makes can be pivotal in helping define
their personality.
 Literary devices - Such as metaphors, similes and alliteration to make creative writing
more imaginative and descriptive. These are used in a myriad of ways by writers to make
their writing more vivid, interesting and engaging.

Can creative writing be taught?

Of course! Creative writing can be taught, and is a very popular subject for university students,
and for those who attend lectures on creative writings.

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Those who pursue the subject of Creative Writing will typically study a variety of texts from
different periods of time to learn more about the different genres of writing within the field.
They’ll become familiar with some of the leading creative writers from generations past to
present, as well as some lesser-known and emerging writers in the industry.

Inspired by what they’ve learnt in the classroom, it’s not uncommon for Creative Writing
students to also participate in regular workshops and scratch sessions, where they bring a piece
of their writing along to class and have it read by other students and the tutor. They’ll leave with
constructive feedback on how to improve their writing, or recommendations of other works
which they may want to read to take influence from.

How to start creative writing

If you’re interested in getting those creative juices flowing and improving your writing craft,
read some of tips below on how to start creative writing:

 Read as much as you can - For creative writers, inspiration comes from a whole range
of sources, but most commonly, from other writers. There’s some excellent examples of
creative writing throughout history that all writers should be inspired by. Read a variety
of genres by different authors to get a real feel for what type of writing you may want to
do. Need some inspiration? Check out sources of  Classic Books to Read
 Start journaling - Starting a journal can really help to unleash your inner creativity.
Getting into the habit of writing each day about literally anything that’s preoccupied you
that day will help you practice the art of writing. The more regular you journal, the more
you’ll build your confidence. You never know, you could even find your next great idea
from something you’ve journaled about!
 Attend a Creative Writing courses - If you’re just starting out as a creative writer and
looking to collaborate, share ideas with others and workshop your writing, then joining
a creative writing summer school could be a great option.  creative writing summer
courses are designed to help you extend your creative writing toolkit; you’ll analyze
some of the industry’s greatest writers, as well as workshop some of your own writing
with your peers.

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  Practice using literary devices - Literary devices, such as metaphors, similes and rhyme
can really help you write more vividly and create really descriptive, imaginative scenes.
Practice using them regularly and you’ll soon watch your own creative writing start to
flourish. Need some ideas to help you get practicing? Look around your house and
pick a random object. Then, practice using 5 literary devices to describe that same
object - see where your creativity can take you!
 Write, write, write! - When it comes to how to start creative writing, one of the biggest
pieces of advice we can offer is to pick up your pen or laptop, and start writing. Whether
you have a single conversation starter for a character, or a complete narrative arc, you
will only begin your creative writing journey when you physically do it. Even if you have
no idea on what to write - look for writing prompt inspiration from all around you. The
more you practice unleashing your creativity, the easier it will be to write over longer
periods of time.

Summary

Creative writing is an expressive form of literature; one which demands you to use your own
creativity, imagination and story to portray a particular message, emotion, or plot. It defies the
traditional bounds of other forms of writing and is completely subjective to our own
preferences and experiences.

For those looking to get started with creative writing, it’s important to really immerse yourself in
the world of literature, reading and writing as much as you can - and even work shopping your
work where possible. Creative writing summer schools and evening classes are a great way to
meet other like-minded students, share knowledge and feedback, and really up skill yourself.

CRITICAL CREATIVE WRITING

Threshold Concepts for Creative Writing

The following threshold concepts emphasize the complexity of creative writing and what is at stake in shared i
craft.

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 ATTENTION CREATIVITY

Creative writing involves specific modes of attention as writers learn Writers benefit from a robust toolkit
to be close and critical observers of the world. Writers learn to and process heuristics for generating
account for the ethical considerations involved in perceiving and studies are useful for increasing the
reinventing the world through their research and observation.

AUTHORSHIP LANGUAGE

Writerly identity is constructed by a range of cultural forces. Cultural Language choices are bound to issue
messages about the identity and lifestyle of the writer can be polylingual and multimodal literary
critically examined as we gain resources for building a writing life. attention from writers, in each writin

GENRE CRAFT

There are no universal standards for ‘good writing’; however, there Craft choices produce effects in the
are conventions that are particular to established genres. effects cannot be entirely predicted,
possibilities of each craft choice.

REPRESENTATION RESISTANCE

The writer does the cultural and political work of representation. All Literature can forward social change
forms of representation, including literary production, can be culture. Literary production is a uniq
interrogated for assumptions, values, and ideologies. into question.

THEORY REVISION

Historical knowledge of aesthetic theories is important to the practice Writers learn to be responsive to wh
and craft of writing. Writers write within and against traditions, and creation, as they also bring comparat
thus benefit from a robust theoretical knowledgebase of cross- their revision process.
cultural artistic thought.

5 Key Concepts to Improve Your Creative Writing

Here are five concepts that can help you improve your creative writing

1. Defamiliarization

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This concept was formulated by the early 20th-century Russian literary critic and philosopher
Mikhail Bakhtin. Defamiliarization is basically "making the unknown, known." It is focusing on
sights that were previously overlooked. Authors defamiliarize their literary works by using
different figures of speech, such as metaphors or techniques, like point-of-view in order to
shed new insights or new perspectives on objects, people, or situations that would normally
appear mundane.

James Agee's short story, "A Mother's Tale," is a really great example of defamiliarization in
literature. Agee shifts our perspective to that of a cow. As the reader, we vicariously identify
ourselves with the cow and experience what the cow encounters, see what the cow sees, and
understand as the cow understands. This device can be a powerful force in reality by shifting our
views on political or philosophical controversies—in this case, conundrums in animal rights.

Defamiliarization is also apparent in the way Agee metaphorically sets up his plot to resemble
the holocaust by having the cows board a train that takes them to the slaughterhouse; the train
carts are packed and they can't move or see, the odor is unbearable, and all the cows are gasping
for a particle of fresh air. Then they are corralled off the train and lined up for inspections. Some
pass, others fail. They are forced to walk into a world surrounded by heavy machinery, their
sight and smell exposed to a genocide of their own kind.

It's very powerful stuff! It defamiliarizes or makes the "unknown, known" by a simple shift of
perspective and a strong metaphoric plot. We know every day that the meat we buy at the store
comes from mass slaughterhouses. We see the cows outside, gazing and gathered in their herds
(if you live in Western New York like me, you sure do). We know they will be butchered for
food within the next year. We know that in many regions of the country, these animals are
horribly abused before finally being put out of their misery. But we really don't connect those
dots until something like Agee's story forces us to shift our focus outside of our normal
perspective to see and experience important matters with fresh eyes.

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 3. Diction

When we talk about Saxonate and Latinate words within the English language, we are talking
about diction, which is a different ballpark from grammar. Word choice is very important and
can shed light into the areas such as literacy and education.

Typically, thick multisyllabic words that derive from Latin and Greek are found in scholarly
essays (Du Bois for example) or "high art" poetry (some of Dunbar's poems "Ode to Ethiopia").
Latinate words were generally a characteristic of highly educated authors from the late-19th
century and earlier; it is related to how the early ruling language in England during the 11th and
12th centuries was French: Old-English was a strictly spoken language of the lower-classes. For
example, the Anglo-Saxon 'cow', 'sheep', and 'swine' wore spoken in the marketplace, but in the
logomachy and other places of authority these words turned into the Latinate words 'beef',
mutton', and 'pork', respectively.

The early influences of Latinate words on the English language and politics is astounding. If you
read the American Preamble, you will notice that 90% or more of the words derive from Latin or
Greek origins while pronouns, such as 'we' can be traced back to Anglo-Saxon roots. Thus it is a
common characteristic of legal or political documents to have a rich volume of Latinate words.
This is also a characteristic of a ton of English and American poetry.

On the flip side, typically the suppressed authors in the English language used diction to express
their unique place within the English language. Irish authors did this during the 17th and 18th
centuries during periods of English militaristic aggression. So too did African Americans
develop their unique place within the English language. Neither suppressed group created a
language of their own—only an express of the language they were immersed.

4. Suspense
Cognitive science argues that humans are wired to dispel uncertainties by creating
coherent and stable world views, and, when this coherence and unity are denied, the

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 result is suspense. Suspense functions best when the narrative withholds or delays
information from readers, whether through its narrative structures or linguistic surface.
This technique launches readers into a textual world that is incomplete, disordered, and
disorienting. In other words, readers experience an epistemological void in which their
only hope for [cognitive/textual] unity can be filled via following the trail of yarn strung
by the narrator/author.

As the critic mentions, though, this technique can be risky: an author trying to create too much
uncertainty may lose its hold upon his or her readers completely as they lose focus, become
frustrated/confused, and simply shut the book once and for all.

Now, two common paths toward creating suspense regard the creation of terror and horror. Both
terror and horror operate on the major aspects of fight-or-flight responses, namely, adrenaline,
fear, and anxiety; however, the terms are not interchangeable. In fact, they are quite different.
Terror refers to the emotional event during the moments preceding a potentially frightening
experience whereas horror refers to the emotional event during the moments after a frightening
experience. Simply put: terror is the anticipation of something horrible, and horror is
the realization or reflection of something terrible.

For example, when we are in a public place, perhaps within a heavily crowded place, and we feel
that common contemporary [irrational] fear that someone will suddenly open fire and randomly
shoot strangers is a feeling of terror—the anticipation of something horrible. On the flip side, if
you recall where you were during the events on 9/11 and you remember watching the events
conspire on the television and you remember how you felt: this was a moment of horror—
the realization of something terrible and terrifying.

With this in mind, I cannot necessarily agree that terror and horror are complete opposites of
each other. From the perspective of plot structures, arguably moments of terror (anticipation)
would create more suspense, more tension than moments of horror, of which the latter would
likely be more effective during climaxes, or other moments of shocking distress. But, even
though they cannot occur at the exact same time (terror and horror are separated by an event),

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this does not necessarily entail that either is completely replaceable by the other. In fact, in
Gothic literature, they often work in tandem, relying upon each other to create a desired effect.

4. Characterization

Oftentimes characterization can be a difficult task. Making "round" characters that change
throughout the story takes a lot of planning and interacting (with other characters, objects, and
settings). For instance, to make a madman seem really convincing, a writer should focus on
everything from his gestures, appearance, reactions, habits, and especially what makes them
"tick." A comprehensive yet penetrating look at a character's personality and behavior (and a
detailed account of how it changes) can make them more convincing than, say, a flat character
that has no depth and an unflinching set of qualities.

Ultimately, what creative writing scholar Diana Thiel said is true: "A rather common
misconception about writing fiction is that an interesting plot is the most important element of an
effective story—a plot that offers action and surprises. The truth is, however, that no matter how
dramatic, action-packed, or clever the plot is, the story will only be as effective as the characters
are interesting."

Psychological depth typically makes fictional characters very interesting. Complex psyches with
unique desires and fears can enable characters to constantly interact and react with originality
and also create distinctive tensions between characters. For instance, one of my favorite literary
characters is Holden Caulfield from J.D. Salinger's The Catcher in the Rye. Holden's
psychological depth is remarkable and it is powerful enough to be the focal point of the novel.
He often tells us reoccurring thoughts, but every now and then, he manages to surprise us with
something unprecedented and shocking. His complex, irrational, and yet eerily compelling mind
is what makes readers continue reading.

Furthermore, this difficult-to-produce complexity is what makes fictional characters

seem real. Throughout the course of The Catcher in the Rye, readers really start to get
entrenched in Holden's situation and thought process. It creates the effect that we are really

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conversing with Holden. In reality, we are conversing with Salinger, but there is something about
the language and descriptions that bring Holden's exceptionally unique mind to life.

5. Temporality and Spatiality

The concision and precision of the language in a text is a defining characteristic of literature. The
textual and linguistic density of poetry is what makes it stand apart from prose. In particular, a
poet can accomplish concise and precise writing by using different forms of figurative language
(we all know them: metaphors, symbols, and so on). Prose, on the other, is usually distinguished
by its "novelness" or literal language. But, as you mentioned, the temporality and spatiality of
poetry and prose—within the text and outside the text (for readers)—can be drastically different.

Now, this is not to say that all poems move at rabbit-speed or all works of prose go turtle-speed.
But, it is to say that poems typically have a shorter reading time than works of prose; the
movement of images and actions in either, however, can move quickly or freeze entirely. For
instance, if we analyze space and time in Beowulf, we will see that we cover roughly 50 years
over the course of 3,182 alliterative lines. Granted, there is two big jumps that happen within
instants (Grendel rules the mead-hall for 12 years, and Beowulf returns in his old age to slay the
dragon) rather than at a steady pace of 1 year for every 63 lines. Nevertheless, Beowulf is a poem
that moves both slow and fast in terms of its movement of images and actions. For the most part,
the narration is linear: meaning that the present consistently collides with the future.

For juxtaposition, another Old-English text, The Wanderer, covers no more than the passing
thoughts of a brief meditation in 115 alliterative lines. The movement of time is transitory
because the narrator's thoughts delve deep into the past; however, the length of an average
mediation in linear time lasts maybe only 30–60 minutes. The movement of images is quick
because the spaces of these images are contained only in memory, which is nonlinear. For this
reason, the narration of The Wanderer is undulating, meaning that it weaves the past and the
present together.

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In any case, though, The Wanderer, in 115 alliterative lines, moves at a linear speed of just a few
minutes per line. Beowulf, on the other hand, moved 12 linear years forward in roughly the same
number of lines. How can literary scholars account for such a huge difference in the presentation
of time and space?

Authors still toy with space and time in literature today. In fact, many authors today consciously
manipulate them. On one extreme, Imagist poets would ultimately strive to freeze time and space
(see W.C. Williams' "The Red Wheel Barrow"). At the other extreme, Postmodern poets
attempted to break down or estrange time and space (watch the movie Momento—it's really
trippy). To my understanding, anytime an author experiments with space and time—regardless of
whether it was written 1,000 years ago or yesterday—there is a tremendous impact on readers.
Asking why they did/do this can be fun, but it is usually just speculative. Instead, let's ask: how
do you think the manipulation of space and time impacted/impacts readers?

Creative Writing: What It Is and Why It Matters

By: AuthorPaul Jenkins

Posted onPublished: January 13, 2023 - Last updated: January 15, 2023

CategoriesWriting
Writing can be intimidating for many people, but creative writing doesn’t have to be. Creative
writing is a form of self-expression that allows writers to create stories, characters, and unique
settings. But what exactly is creative writing? And why is it important in today’s society? Let’s
explore this further.

Contents  show

How We Define Creative Writing

Creative writing is any form where writers can express their thoughts and feelings imaginatively.
This type of writing allows authors to draw on their imagination when creating stories and
characters and play with language and structure. While there are no boundaries in creative
writing, most pieces will contain dialogue, description, and narrative elements.

The Importance of Creative Writing

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Creative writing is important because:

 It helps us express ourselves in ways we may not be able to do with other forms of
communication.

 It allows us to explore our creativity and think outside the box.

 It can help us better understand our emotions by exploring them through storytelling or
poetry.

 Writing creatively can also provide much-needed escapism from everyday life, allowing us
to escape into a world of our creation.

 Creative writing helps us connect with others by sharing our experiences through stories or
poems they can relate to. This way, we can gain insight into other people’s lives while
giving them insight into ours.

Creative Writing: A Path to Mental and Emotional Wellness

Writing is more than just a way to express your thoughts on paper. It’s a powerful tool that can
be used as a form of therapy. Creative writing has been shown to improve emotional and mental
well-being.

Through creative writing, we can gain insight into our emotions, develop self-expression
and communication skills, cultivate empathy and understanding of others, and boost our
imagination and creativity.
Let’s examine how creative writing can relieve stress and emotional catharsis.

Stress Relief and Emotional Catharsis

Writing has the power to reduce stress levels significantly. Writing about our experiences or
about things that are causing us anxiety or distress helps us to release those complicated feelings
constructively. By expressing ourselves through creative writing, we can work through the
emotions associated with stressful situations without having to confront them directly.

This is especially helpful for people who struggle to share their emotions verbally or in person.

Improved Communication and Self-Expression

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Creative writing is also beneficial for improving communication skills. Through creative writing,
we can explore our thoughts and feelings more intensely than by speaking them aloud. This
allows us to think more clearly about what we want to say before actually saying it out loud or in
written form, which leads to improved self-expression overall.

Additionally, writing out our thoughts before speaking aloud allows us to articulate ourselves
better when communicating with others—which is essential for healthy personal and
professional relationships.

Increased Empathy and Understanding of Others

Through creative writing, we can also increase our empathy towards others by exploring
different perspectives on various topics that may be unfamiliar or uncomfortable for us—such as
racism, homophobia, sexism, etc.—and allowing ourselves the opportunity to see the situation
from someone else’s point of view without judgment or bias. This helps us become better
communicators and more understanding individuals overall.

The Professional Benefits of Creative Writing

Creative writing is a powerful tool that can help you communicate better and more effectively in
the professional world. It can also help you develop various skills that prove invaluable in many
industries. Whether you’re looking to build your résumé or improve your communication,
creative writing can effectively achieve both.

Let’s take a closer look at how creative writing can benefit your career.

Preparing Students for Careers in Writing, Editing, and Publishing

Creative writing is the perfect foundation for anyone interested in pursuing a career in writing,
editing, or publishing. It teaches students the basics of grammar and composition while allowing
them to express their ideas in imaginative ways.

Creative writing classes also allow students to learn from professionals who have experience as
editors, agents, and publishers. They can use this knowledge to learn creative writing, refine their
craft and gain valuable experience before entering the job market.

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Improving Skills in Storytelling and Marketing for Various Careers
Creative writing teaches students to think critically about stories and craft compelling narratives
that draw readers in. This skill is precious for those who wish to pursue careers outside
traditional writing roles—such as marketing or advertising—where storytelling is key.

People who understand the fundamentals of creative writing will be able to create persuasive
copy that resonates with readers and effectively conveys a message.

Enhancing Team Collaboration and Leadership Skills

Creative writing isn’t just about expressing yourself through words; it also provides an
opportunity to practice working collaboratively with others on projects. Many creative writing
classes require students to work together on group projects, which helps them develop essential
teamwork skills such as communication, critical thinking, problem-solving, and creativity.

As they work together on these projects, they will also gain confidence in their ability to lead
teams effectively—an invaluable asset no matter what industry they pursue after graduation.

Uncovering the Power of Creative Writing

Creative writing has become an increasingly powerful force in shaping our society. Creative
writing has many uses, from preserving cultural heritage to promoting social change.

Preserving Cultural Heritage with Creative Writing

Creative writing has long been used to preserve and share cultural heritage stories. This is done
through fictional stories or poetry that explore a particular culture or group’s history, values, and
beliefs. By weaving these stories in an engaging way, writers can bring a culture’s history and
traditions to life for readers worldwide. This helps bridge cultural gaps by providing insight into
what makes each culture unique.

Promoting Social Change & Activism with Creative Writing

Creative writing can also be used for activism and social change. Writers can craft stories that
help promote awareness about important issues such as poverty, race relations, gender equality,
climate change, and more.

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With the power of words, writers can inspire readers to take action on these issues and work
towards creating positive change in their communities.

Through creative writing, writers can raise awareness about important topics while fostering
empathy toward individuals who may be facing difficult or challenging situations.

Fostering Creativity & Innovation with Creative Writing

Finally, creative writing can foster creativity and innovation in various fields. For example,
businesses can use creative copywriting techniques to create compelling content that captures the
attention of customers or potential investors.

Aspiring entrepreneurs can use storytelling techniques when pitching their ideas or products to
potential partners or investors to make their cases more persuasive and memorable.

By harnessing the power of words through creative writing techniques, businesses can create
content that resonates with their target audience while inspiring them to take action on whatever
message they’re trying to convey. It often aids the overall creative process.

Frequently Asked Questions

What are the benefits of creative writing?

Creative writing has many benefits, both for the writer and the reader. For the writer, it can be
therapeutic, helping them to explore their emotions and better understand themselves. It can also
be used as entertainment or communication, allowing them to share their ideas with the world.
For the reader, creative writing can provide enjoyment, escapism, and insights into the human
condition.

How can I improve my creative writing skills?

There are several ways you can improve your creative writing skills. Firstly, make sure you
allow yourself time to write regularly. Use a writing prompt to inspire a short story. Secondly,
read as much as you can; great writers are also great readers. Thirdly, experiment with different
styles and genres to find one that suits you best. Fourthly, join a writers’ group, writing

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workshop, or creative writing program to get feedback from other writers. Finally, keep a journal
to track your progress and reflect on your work as a creative writer.

What is the importance of imagery in creative writing?

Imagery is an important element of creative writing, as it helps to create a more vivid picture for
the reader. By using sensory and descriptive language, writers can transport readers into their
stories and help them relate to their characters or themes. Imagery can bring a scene alive with
detail and evoke emotion by helping readers create strong visual images in their minds.
Furthermore, imagery can help make stories more memorable by giving readers a deeper
connection with the characters or setting.

What are the elements of creative writing?

The elements of creative writing include plot, character, dialogue, setting, theme, and point of
view. The plot is the structure or main storyline, while the character is the personage involved in
this story. Dialogue includes conversations between characters to give insight into their emotions
and relationships. Setting refers to the place or time in which a story takes place, while theme
explores deeper meanings behind a story’s narrative. Finally, point of view defines how readers
experience a story through first-person or third-person omniscient narration.

What’s the difference between creative writing and other types of writing?

The main difference between creative writing and other types of writing is that it allows the
writer to create their own story, characters, settings, and themes. Creative writing also
encourages writers to be inventive with their style and use descriptive language to evoke emotion
or bring stories alive in readers’ minds. Other academic or technical writing types typically
involve more research-based information and are usually more objective in their presentation.
Additionally, most forms of non-creative writing will have stricter rules regarding grammar,
structure, and syntax.

What is the golden rule of creative writing?

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The golden rule of creative writing is to show, not tell. It’s the core creative writing skill. When
it comes to creative writing, it’s essential to use descriptive language that immerses readers in the
story and allows them to experience the events through their emotions and imaginations. This
can be done through metaphors, similes, sensory language, and vivid imagery.

How important is creativity in writing?

Creativity is essential in writing as it allows writers to craft a unique story and evoke emotion
from the reader. Creativity can bring stories alive with fresh perspectives and exciting plot lines
while creating an escape for readers and giving them more profound insights into the human
condition. Writers who combine creativity with technical aspects such as grammar, structure,
language usage, and flow will create pieces that capture their audience’s attention and provide an
enjoyable reading experience.

What Is Creative Writing? Is It Worth Studying?

Table of Contents

1What is Creative Writing?

1.1Technical Writing vs Creative Writing
1.2Self-Expression in Creative Writing
2Types of Creative Writing: 2 Major Types
2.1. Creative Nonfiction
2.2. Creative Fiction
3Why Is It Important to Learn Creative Writing?
3.1. Creative Writing is a valuable skill in school and work
3.2. Creative Writing enhances several essential skills.
3.3. Creative Writing Is Therapeutic
3.4. You may want to work in a Creative Writing-related Career
4.How To Be A Creative Writer?

As loose as the definition of Creative Writing is, it’s not always easy to understand. Sure, writing
a story is Creative Writing. What about poems or personal essays?

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 Also, how does Creative Writing even help one succeed in university and career life? We
empower our Creative Writing summer school students to grasp the power of creative writing
and how to use it.

How? By giving them access to personalised tutorials with expert Creative Writing tutors from
prestigious universities such as the University of Oxford and Cambridge.

Creative Writing doesn’t have to be confusing or intimidating. In this article, we’ll take you
through a simple explanation of what Creative Writing is and why it’s helpful and relevant.

What is Creative Writing?

The simplest description of Creative Writing is what it’s not: it doesn’t revolve around facts like
technical writing.

Technical Writing vs Creative Writing

You encounter technical writing in your daily life. You’ll find it in newspapers, journal articles,
and textbooks. Do you notice how the presentation of accurate information is necessary in each
of these mediums?

Because the goal of technical writing is to explain or relay information as it is.

But in creative writing, such is not the case. The primary goal of Creative Writing is not to
present complex information for the sake of educating the audience.

Instead, the goal is to express yourself. Should you want to share information via Creative
Writing, the objective becomes persuading your readers to think about it as you do.

Hence, if you contrast Technical Writing and Creative Writing within this context,

 Technical Writing: share information without biases

 Creative Writing: self-expression of how one feels or thinks about said information.

If reducing personal opinion in Technical Writing is virtuous, in creative writing, it is criminal.

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 Self-Expression in Creative Writing

One must express oneself in Creative Writing to entertain, captivate, or persuade readers. Since
Creative Writing involves one’s imagination and self-expression, it’s common for Creative
Writers to say that they “poured a part of themselves” into their work.

What are the different ways you can express yourself in Creative Writing?

Types of Creative Writing: 2 Major Types

The two major umbrellas of Creative Writing are Creative Nonfiction and Creative Fiction.

1. Creative Nonfiction

“Nonfiction” means writing based on actual events, persons, and experiences. Some forms of
creative nonfiction include:

 Personal Essay – here, the writer shares their personal thoughts, beliefs, or experiences.
 Memoir – captures the writer’s memories and experiences of a life-changing past event.
 Narrative Nonfiction – a factual event written in a story format.

2. Creative Fiction

The bulk of Creative Writing literature is found under the Creative Fiction category, such as:

 Short Story – shorter than a novel, containing only a few scenes and characters.
 Novel – a full-blown plot line with multiple scenes, characters, and subplots.
 Poem – uses specific rhythm and style to express ideas or feelings
 Play – contains dialogue and stage directions for theatre performances.
 Screenplay – script to be used for film production (e.g. movies, video games.)

In short, Creative Fiction involves stories. Do you want more specific examples of Creative
Writing? Then, you may want to read this article called “Creative Writing Examples.”

Why Is It Important to Learn Creative Writing?

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 It’s essential to learn Creative Writing because of the following reasons:

1. Creative Writing is a valuable skill in school and work

As a student, you know well why Creative Writing is important. You submit written work in
various situations, such as writing essays for assignments and exams. Or when you have to write
a Personal Statement to apply for University. 

In these situations, your chances of getting higher grades depend on your ability to write
creatively. (Even your chances of getting accepted into a top ranked creative writing
university of your dreams!)

What about when you graduate? Do you use Creative Writing in your career? Convincing a
recruiter to hire you via cover letters is an example of creative writing.

Once you’re hired, you’ll find that you need to write something up. It depends on your line of
work and how often and complex your writing should be.

But mundane tasks such as writing an email response, coming up with a newsletter, or making a
PowerPoint presentation involve creative writing.

So when you’ve practiced your Creative Writing skills, you’ll find these tasks manageable. Even
enjoyable! If you want to study creative writing at university, we put together what a-levels you
need for creative writing.

2. Creative Writing enhances several essential skills.

Do you know that writing is thinking? At least that’s what the American Historian and two-time
winner of the Pulitzer Prize, David McCullough said.

Many people find Creative Writing challenging because it requires a combination of the
following skills:

 Observation
 Reflection

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 Critical thinking and analysis
 Reasoning skills
 Communication
 Empathy
 Creativity

Many of these skills make you a valuable employee in many industries. In fact, Forbes reports
that:

 Critical Thinking
 Creativity
 and Emotional Intelligence

are three of the Top 10 most in-demand skills for the next decade. That’s why Creative Writing
is a valuable endeavour and if you take it at university there are some great creative writing
degree career prospects.

3. Creative Writing Is Therapeutic 

Do you know that Creative Writing has a significant beneficial effect on your mental and
emotional health? 

A 2021 study in the Counseling & Psychotherapy Research reports that Creative Writing brought
significant health benefits to nine people who worked in creative industries. Writing helped them
in their cognitive processing of emotional difficulty. 

Result? Improved mood and mental well-being. 

A plethora of studies over the decades found the same results. Expressing yourself via creative
writing, especially by writing in your daily journal, is beneficial for your mental and emotional
health. 

4. You may want to work in a Creative Writing-related Career

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Creative employment in the UK grows 2x faster than the rest of the economy. In fact, did you
know that jobs in the creative industry grew by 30.6% from 2011 to 2018? 

Compare that to the average UK growth of 10.1% during the same period, and you can see the
potential. 

How about in the US? The Bureau of Labor Statistics estimates a 4% increase in employment for
authors and writers from 2021 to 2031. Resulting in about 15,200 job openings yearly over the
next 10 years.

The median yearly salary? It was at $69,510 as of May 2021. 

So if you’re considering a Creative Writing career, now would be a great time to do so!

How to Be A Creative Writer? 

You want to be a Creative Writer but don’t know where to start. Don’t worry! The best way to
start is to learn from Creative Writing experts.

That’s why we ensure our Creative Writing summer school students have access to 1:1
personalised tutorials with expert Creative Writing tutors. 

Our Creative Writing tutors come from world-renowned universities such as the University of
Cambridge and Oxford. So you’re in excellent hands!

Here you’ll learn creative writing tips and techniques, such as character creation and plot
mapping. But the best part is, you’ll come out of the course having experienced what a Creative
Writer is like!

Because by then, you’ll have a Written Portfolio to show for your efforts. Which you presented
to your tutor and peers for receiving constructive feedback.

Another surefire way to start becoming a Creative Writer is by practising. Check out this article
called “Creative Writing Exercises.” You’ll begin building a writing routine if you practice these
exercises daily. 

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 And trust us, every great writer has a solid writing routine!

Creative Writing is a form of self-expression that allows you to use your imagination and
creativity. It can be in the form of personal essays, short stories, or poems. It is often used as an
outlet for emotions and experiences. Start with creative writing by reading through creative
writing examples to help get you in the mood. Then, just let the words flow daily, and you’re on
the road to becoming an excellent Creative Writer!

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Creative Writing Prompts For Middle School Students

Creative Writing Prompts for middle school students is a fun list to help unmotivated and
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Table of Contents

1. What Is Creative Writing?

2. Forms of Creative Writing

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3. Top 8 Creative Writing Tips

4. How to Get Better at Creative Writing

Creative writing transcends the realms of technical, business, and academic writing and focuses
on elements such as plot, creative development, and narrative structure.

There’s no set formula for creative writing, but there are ways you can improve your
writing technique.

If you want to learn more about creative writing, keep reading as we discuss what creative
writing is, its various forms, and tips on how to get started.

What Is Creative Writing?

Creative writing is a style of writing that is focused on expressing the writer’s imagination and
creativity.

Creative writing often involves the creation of fictional or nonfictional works that go beyond
the formal, professional, and traditional styles of writing. This type of writing allows writers to
express themselves in a more personal and original way.

What Do You Do in Creative Writing? 

Creative writing gives writers the opportunity to be original and express themselves. It involves
the use of literary techniques and devices to tell a story or to paint a picture in the reader’s mind.

There are many different forms of creative writing, such as novels, poems, screenplays, and even
songs.

The main goal of creative writing is to entertain, inspire, or convey an idea or message to the
reader. It is a form of self-expression that allows the writer to explore their thoughts, feelings,
and ideas.

It can also be a way for writers to explore new ideas, to entertain and inspire readers, and to
share their perspectives and experiences with others. 

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Ultimately, the purpose of creative writing is to connect with the reader on a deep level and to
leave a lasting impression.

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Forms of Creative Writing

Creative writing is an expressive form of writing that takes many forms and styles. Let’s look at
a few examples of creative writing forms.

Fiction Writing

Fiction involves the creation of imaginary characters, settings, and plots. You can write fiction in
many different genres, such as mystery, romance, fantasy, and more.

You can also write fiction in any length you want. For example, flash fiction is shorter than
1,000 words, while the average novel is around 90,000 words.

Poetry

Poetry is a type of creative writing that uses expressive language. Poets use techniques such as
rhyme, meter, and figurative language to create meaning and convey emotions and ideas.

Poems come in many different forms. You can try writing a haiku, a sonnet, a free-verse poem,
or any other poetic structure that appeals to you.

Screenplays

A screenplay tells a story through the medium of film or television. It includes descriptions of
characters, settings, and actions, as well as dialogue and stage directions.

Plays

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A play is meant to be performed on stage. It includes dialogue, stage directions, and descriptions
of characters and settings. Plays can be a powerful way to engage the audience’s emotions and
imagination to convey complex themes.

Songs

Songs are a musical expression of creative writing. Songs can be written in a variety of genres,
such as pop, rock, folk, hip-hop, and more. They can be written to express a wide range of
emotions and ideas, from love and heartbreak to social and political issues.

Graphic novels

A graphic novel is a type of creative writing that combines text and illustrations to tell a story. It
can be a work of fiction or nonfiction and can be written in a variety of genres.

Nonfiction Writing

Creative writing is typically associated with fiction, but there are nonfiction works that fall
under the creative categories, too. These nonfiction works deal with real events, people, and
ideas. Creative nonfiction can take the form of personal essays, memoirs, biographies, or even
news articles.

Top 8 Creative Writing Tips

There’s no scientific formula for creative writing. It all comes down to your own self-
expression and the limitlessness of your imagination. However, there are a few creative
writing techniques you can use in your next writing.

Here are eight ways you can improve your creative writing skills.

1. Find Inspiration

The first step for any creative writing project is to find your inspiration. This can come from a
variety of sources, such as your own life experiences, your interests and passions, or even
something as simple as a newspaper article or a conversation with a friend.

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Take some time to think about what inspires you, and use that as the foundation for your writing.

2. Read Widely

To be a good creative writer, you need to be a good reader. Reading widely exposes you to
different styles, genres, and techniques, and it can help you develop your own voice as a writer.

You’ll get to learn from a variety of authors, and you may discover new ways of structuring a
story, creating compelling characters, or using language in a way that resonates with readers.

So read widely, and don’t be afraid to try out new genres or authors.

3. Try Freewriting

Freewriting is a writing exercise in which the writer allows their thoughts and inspiration to flow
onto the page without any prescribed structure or editorial oversight.

It involves letting the mind wander and following the impulses of your subconscious, allowing
you to tap into your creativity and explore new ideas.

While the first time you try freewriting you may end up with mostly unusable material, with
practice, it can help you refine your writing style and unleash your creativity.

4. Write Often

The more you write, the better you’ll be. By writing every day, you’ll develop a habit that will
make it easier to sit down and write even when you don’t want to.

Even if you only have a few minutes to spare, use that time to jot down some ideas or work on a
scene. 

5. Use Literary Devices

Literary devices are techniques writers use to add depth, interest, and emotion to their writing.
By using these devices, you can create vivid imagery, convey complex ideas, and engage the
reader’s emotions in a way that goes beyond simple storytelling.

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For example, you can use descriptive language to paint a picture of a character’s appearance,
which allows readers to feel like they are truly immersed in the story. Other literary devices
include symbols, allegory, emotional language, metaphors, and similes.

Whether you’re just starting out or you’re a seasoned pro, incorporating these techniques into
your writing can help you craft more compelling and engaging stories.

6. Get Feedback

Getting feedback from other people helps you improve your creative writing skills.

Sometimes it feels intimidating to share your work, especially when you’re new to creative
writing, but it’s a crucial step to help you progress.

Ask a trusted friend or family member to read your work and tell you what they think.
Alternatively, you can attend a workshop for writers, where you can get more targeted feedback.

You can also join writing communities to meet like-minded creative writers. Spaces such
as ProWritingAid’s Community allow writers to come together and support each other in their
writing journey. You’ll get access to feedback and constructive criticism on different aspects of
your writing, such as plot, character development, setting, and language use.

7. Edit Your Work

The editing process is an essential part of creative writing. Once you’ve finished your first draft,
it’s important to continue making changes to your work, whether it’s cutting unnecessary words,
reworking a scene, or adding details.

Many successful creative writers suggest editing after you’ve finished writing so it doesn’t
interrupt your creative flow.

Editing can be time-consuming, but it’s worth it to produce the best work possible. You can use
an editing software like ProWritingAid to show you where you can improve your writing.

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 ProWritingAid goes beyond just correcting grammar, spelling, and punctuation issues by also
showing you style improvement suggestions. Plus, if you’re looking to improve your creative
writing skills, you can use ProWritingAid to compare your work to your favorite authors.

8. Have Fun

Creative writing is all about originality and self-expression, so above all, have fun with your
writing. It’s easy to get bogged down in the details and to take things too seriously, but it’s
important to remember that writing is supposed to be enjoyable. 

So relax, let your creativity flow, and have fun with it.

How to Get Better at Creative Writing

Creative writing is a form of self-expression that allows you to use your imagination and
creativity to share your ideas and thoughts in a unique way.

Venturing into creative writing can be intimidating at first, but remember that you’ll get better
with practice.

Take time to read widely, try writing exercises, and gather feedback on your work. Don’t be
afraid to join creative writing communities so you can access support in your writing journey. 

And above all, remember: there’s no limit to your creativity. 

What Is Creative Writing?

 Author
Austin ValenzuelaView bio
 Instructor
Bryanna LicciardiView bio
 Expert Contributor
Amy FredricksonView bio
Learn the definition of creative writing. View examples of creative writing while learning the
various types, elements and techniques of creative writing. Updated: 09/27/2021
Table of Contents

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 What is Creative Writing?
 Examples of Creative Writing
 Lesson Summary

What is an example of creative writing?

One example of creative writing is fiction writing. Fiction includes traditional novels, short
stories, and graphic novels. By definition, fiction is a story that is not true, although it can be
realistic and include real places and facts.

What are the 8 elements of creative writing?

The eight elements of creative writing that are used in short stories and novels are character
development, setting, plot, conflict, theme, point of view, tone, and style. Some of these elements
are also often used in poems and works of creative nonfiction such as memoir and personal
essay.

What is creative writing and its purpose?

Creating writing is a means of using written language to tell an interesting or enjoyable story that
will engage, inspire, excite, or surprise a reader, evoking emotions and provoking thought. Its
purpose is to artfully educate, entertain, or inform in a meaningful way that the reader will find
enjoyable.

What are the 4 forms of creative writing?

The four forms of creative writing are fiction, creative nonfiction, poetry, and scriptwriting
which is sometimes called screenwriting or play writing. Creative nonfiction can take several
forms such as memoir and personal essay.

What is Creative Writing?

The invention of the written word, sometime around 3200 B.C., launched creative writing with
the recording of stories like The Odyssey and tales of Norse gods. Over time, the stories morphed
and the skill of storytellers improved as well. Today, over three-fourths of the population can
read and write. Oral storytellers have been using elements like voice and personality to entertain
and convey human experience. But what is creative writing? Although the craft has taken many

32
forms from the poem to the novel, the core purpose of conveying human experience remains.
Indeed, many of our oldest stories still inspire modern-day storytellers such as Christopher
Tolkien and his famous Lord of the Rings trilogy.

The dictionary defines creative writing as writing that displays imagination or invention.

Creative, artistic writing uses words to convey emotion or feeling. One must use imaginary
scenarios invented by themselves. Rather than being limited to academic or technical subjects,
which shun first-person voice and emotion, creative writing uses elements such as character
development, plot, and the lyricism of words to share the author's emotion with the reader.
Academic writing is different in its essential purpose because it does not allow the author to
share emotion. Good creative writing does this best, as we will see in later examples.

Types of Creative Writing

There is an infinite number of ways to convey human experience using words. This is the fun of
the craft. Here are some of the most common types of creative writing and their general form:

Examples of Creative Writing

The best creative writing examples use the elements and techniques mentioned above to entertain
and at the same time convey a meaningful, timeless message to the reader. Some writers choose
to lean on the side of creative writing that is more eloquent and harder to read. In contrast, others
prefer to have the meaning of their prose easy to understand. This is typically the difference
between poetry and longer-form fiction. Below are some creative writing examples that show the
different elements and techniques we've covered at use.

 Fire and Ice:

"Some say the world will end in fire,

Some say in ice.

From what I've tasted of desire

I hold with those who favor fire.

But if it had to perish twice,

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I think I know enough of hate

To say that for destruction ice

Is also great

And would suffice."  

14 Types of Creative Writing

by Melissa Donovan | Apr 6, 2021 | Creative Writing 
Which types of creative writing have you tried?

When we talk about creative writing, fiction and poetry often take the spotlight, but there are
many other types of creative writing that we can explore.
Most writers develop a preference for one form (and genre) above all others. This can be a good
thing, because you can specialize in your form and genre and become quite proficient. However,
occasionally working with other types of writing is beneficial. It prevents your work from
becoming stale and overladen with form- or genre-specific clichés, and it’s a good way to
acquire a variety of techniques that are uncommon in your preferred form and genre but that can
be used to enhance it.
Let’s look at some different types of creative writing. As you read through the list, note the types
of writing you’ve experimented with and the types you’d like to try.
Types of Creative Writing
Free writing: Open a notebook or an electronic document and just start writing. Allow strange
words and images to find their way to the page. Anything goes! Also called stream-of-
consciousness writing, free writing is the pinnacle of creative writing.
Journals: A journal is any written log. You could keep a gratitude journal, a memory journal, a
dream journal, or a goals journal. Many writers keep idea journals or all-purpose omni-journals
that can be used for everything from daily free writes to brainstorming and project planning.
Diaries: A diary is a type of journal in which you write about your daily life. Some diaries are
written in letter format (“Dear Diary…”). If you ever want to write a memoir, then it’s a good
idea to start keeping a diary.
Letters: Because the ability to communicate effectively is increasingly valuable, letter writing is
a useful skill. There is a long tradition of publishing letters, so take extra care with those emails

34
you’re shooting off to friends, family, and business associates. Hot tip: one way to get published
if you don’t have a lot of clips and credits is to write letters to the editor of a news publication.
Memoir: A genre of creative nonfiction, memoirs are books that contain personal accounts (or
stories) that focus on specific experiences. For example, one might write a travel memoir.
Essays. Essays are often associated with academic writing, but there are many types of essays,
including personal essays, descriptive essays, and persuasive essays, all of which can be quite
creative (and not especially academic).
Journalism: Some forms of journalism are more creative than others. Traditionally, journalism
was objective reporting on facts, people, and events. Today, journalists often infuse their writing
with opinion and storytelling to make their pieces more compelling or convincing.
Poetry: Poetry is a popular but under-appreciated type of writing, and it’s easily the most artistic
form of writing. You can write form poetry, free-form poetry, and prose poetry.
Song Lyrics: Song lyrics combine the craft of writing with the artistry of music. Composing
lyrics is similar to writing poetry, and this is an ideal type of writing for anyone who can play a
musical instrument.
Scripts: Hit the screen or the stage by writing scripts for film, television, theater, or video
games. Beware: film is a director’s medium, not a writer’s medium, but movies have the
potential to reach a non-reading audience.
Storytelling: Storytelling is the most popular form of creative writing and is found in the realms
of both fiction and nonfiction writing. Popular forms of fiction include flash fiction, short stories,
novellas, and full-length novels; and there are tons of genres to choose from. True stories, which
are usually firsthand or secondhand accounts of real people and events, can be found in essays,
diaries, memoirs, speeches, and more. Storytelling is a tremendously valuable skill, as it can be
found in all other forms of writing, from poetry to speech writing.
Speeches: Whether persuasive, inspirational, or informative, speech writing can lead to
interesting career opportunities in almost any field or industry. Also, speech-writing skills will
come in handy if you’re ever asked to write and deliver a speech at an important event, such as a
graduation, wedding, or award ceremony.
Vignettes: A vignette is defined as “a brief evocative description, account, or episode.”
Vignettes can be poems, stories, descriptions, personal accounts…anything goes really. The key
is that a vignette is extremely short — just a quick snippet.

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Honorable Mention: Blogs. A blog is not a type of writing; it’s a publishing platform — a piece
of technology that displays web-based content on an electronic device. A blog can be used to
publish any type of writing. Most blogs feature articles and essays, but you can also find blogs
that contain diaries or journals, poetry, fiction, journalism, and more.
Which of these types of creative writing have you tried? Are there any forms of writing on this
list that you’d like to experiment with? Can you think of any other types of creative writing to
add to this list? Share your thoughts by leaving a comment, and keep writing.

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