Fri 16 Oct - Sun 18 Oct 2020 (2 nights)
At a glance
During the weekend, we will explore approaches to life writing through a combination of examples, discussions and practical exercises to discover forms most appropriate to unique and individual stories. Autobiography? Memoir? Reportage? Family history? Life writing can provide a singular perspective on dramatic events, as well as insight into history, society and the human relationships that underpin them. The writer’s intimate connection to the material can add a new and resonant dimension to a reader's experience.
Topics will include: finding the universal in the particular; the ‘I’ of autobiographical writing and what it means to be true to someone’s story; creating characters and places; descriptive techniques; using voices and dialogue to create scenes; developing acts, arcs and narrative potential through the dynamics of structure and plot; how to use contextual research to add depth and understanding.
Life writing is often emotionally and psychologically demanding, occasionally cathartic but always challenging. The aim of the course is ultimately to bring out the stories lurking in all of us and to share them in an open, supportive and participatory environment.
About
Skyros attracts mostly solo travellers from all over the world. Although all ages are represented, approximately 70% are between 35 and 65. The Grange is a stunning Georgian country house, surrounded by greenery and close to Shanklin's sandy beach, cosy pubs and restaurants and the local train station.
Accommodation
Share a room with a friend or family member. Or choose single occupancy of a room. The supplement for single occupancy is £100 for four nights.
Inspiring Courses
Your course weekend includes six hours of tuition across two days. This leaves plenty of time to explore the island on coastline walks or enjoy health and beauty treatments (book these in advance). Courses take place outdoors wherever possible and 'households' are socially distanced from each other by 2m. If held indoors social distancing of 2m will be in place or, if 1m plus, risks will be mitigated with the use of face coverings.
Food & Drink
Holidays are inclusive of breakfast, lunch and dinner. Meals are taken outdoors where possible. If indoors, tables are distanced from each other with more than one sitting. Table service will be in place. Packed lunches are provided as per hospitality guidance at this time.
Guide Itinerary
Friday
16.00: Arrivals
18.30: Welcome
19.30: Dinner
Saturday
08.00 to 10.00: Breakfast
10.30 to 12.30: Course
13.00: Lunch
17.00 to 19.00: Course
19.30: Dinner
Sunday
08.00 to 10.00: Breakfast
10.30 to 12.30: Course
13.00: Lunch
Average Temperature
As with much of the UK weather is changeable - although the Isle of Wight does boast a micro-climate and is one of the sunniest places to visit. Fingers crossed for good weather!
Location
Summary
What's included?
- Six hours of course time over the weekend
- Twin shared 4-star guest accommodation (single upgrades available)
- Breakfast, lunch and dinner
- Local walks and opportunities for excursions
Travel
The easiest way to reach The Grange is usually by train. Travel to Portsmouth & Southsea and take the Hoverbus to the Hovercraft. On arrival in Ryde walk over the foot bridge towards the bus station. Walk through the bus station to get to the train which takes you on to Shanklin in 20 minutes. Outside Shanklin station, take a cab for the 3-minute journey to Eastcliff Road.
If you decide to drive then book your crossing online with Wightlink or Red Funnel Ferries. Call to check in case of discount codes.
