Join us for an inspiring creative writing workshop, exploring the landscapes and literary heritage of Jane Austen’s last published novel, Persuasion. We will consider themes of love, regret and Anne’s connections to the dramatic landscapes surrounding Dorset and Somerset.

There will be plenty of opportunities for reading and discussion and as a group we will begin to analyse some of the major themes and how they relate to the novel; this will help us to construct our own personal style of writing and storytelling. For a much broader reflection of Jane Austen’s novels, we will begin to unravel the world of letter writing and consider how this literary device can be used to evoke and stir deep emotions, often leading a character to an evaluation of their own feelings. Letters can often act as a turning point within the narrative or can be used to create misunderstandings, tension and confusion. Together we will compare how this epistolary style can be viewed today as a more literal form of memoir or journal writing.

After a walk in the beautiful cottage garden of Jane Austen House, we will return to the cosy Learning Centre for an inspiring writing session, finishing with an optional sharing session.