For whom? You have a great idea for a prose story or screenplay but can’t find the context or peace of mind to work it out? In this course, in a short series of lessons, tools are given for writing a short or long prose story or screenplay. It is possible to enter blank or to bring your own project.

Structure. Story structure is discussed. Different pivot points. The dynamics of characters and how they have to relate to their purpose again at different points in the story: in a good story, the characters get ‘what they want but not what they expect’. Attention is paid to the development of powerful images and detail.

Authentic. We’re trying to find authentic words. Make it into something that really suits you. Avoid using the same word too often. Give a picture. Let others feel your passion. Develop the courage to give an impromptu talk about your work to a group. It is possible to step in just like that, but it is useful to bring your own project. We work with techniques which can lead to more freedom in writing and larger concentration.

Feedback. Within the safety of a set of benchmarks, the group is invited to provide feedback on the texts so that they become sharper. You learn in this way to positively use criticism.

Ester Eva Damen is a filmmaker with a background in the visual arts. In addition to the Film Academy (screenplay & direction) she studied writing. She advises artists who want to develop a text about their own work in groups as well as in one to one sessions.