A Mermaid Writing Workshop
Course Description
Dive into the mystical depths of storytelling with our Mermaid Writing Workshop. This course is designed for writers of all levels who are captivated by the enchanting world of mermaids and wish to create a portfolio of mermaid-themed narratives. Whether you’re a seasoned writer or just beginning your literary journey, this workshop will guide you in crafting compelling tales that bring these aquatic legends to life.
Who Should Attend
This workshop is ideal for aspiring writers, experienced authors looking to refine their skills, and anyone passionate about mermaids and how they appear in literature.
Course Objectives:
- Explore the Myth and Magic: Delve into the rich history and mythology of mermaids, exploring their origins, cultural significance, and evolution in literature and media.
- Character Development: Learn techniques to create vivid and memorable mermaid characters, from majestic sea queens to rebellious young sirens.
- World-Building: Construct immersive underwater realms and coastal settings that captivate readers and enrich your storytelling.
- Plot Crafting: Develop engaging plots that weave together adventure, romance, and mystery, tailored to the enchanting world of mermaids.
- Writing Techniques: Hone your writing skills with exercises focused on descriptive language, dialogue, and narrative flow specific to fantasy and folklore genres.
Course Structure:
- Weekly Lectures: Gain insights from experienced instructors on various aspects of mermaid mythology and writing techniques.
- Writing Exercises: Participate in guided writing exercises designed to spark creativity and refine your storytelling skills.
- Peer Review: Share your work with fellow participants for constructive feedback and collaborative learning.
- Portfolio Development: Throughout the course, you will compile a diverse portfolio of mermaid-themed writings, including short stories, character sketches, and world-building descriptions.
- Final Project: Complete a polished mermaid tale, incorporating the skills and feedback received during the course, to showcase in your portfolio.
By the end of this workshop, you will have a unique and captivating portfolio of mermaid-themed writings, ready to enchant readers and publishers alike. Join us and embark on a literary voyage to uncover the secrets of the deep!
Course Syllabus
Week 1: Introduction to Mermaid Mythology
Week 2: Character Development
Week 3: World-Building – Underwater Realms
Week 4: Plot Crafting
Week 5: Descriptive Language and Imagery
Week 6: Dialogue and Voice
Week 7: Integrating Themes and Motifs
Week 8: Final Project Presentation and Portfolio Compilation
End Product
By the end of the course, each writer will have complied a portfolio of mermaid-themed writings. The final class will be dedicated to presenting each students’ portfolio.
Ashley Fields
Founder & Instructor
Hi Writers,
For as long as I can remember, I have been captivated by mermaids and the mysteries of underwater realms. This course is the culmination of two years of dedicated research into the representation of mermaids in literature. I believe that mermaids hold a unique and powerful role in storytelling, one that goes beyond the typical fantasy tropes.
The focus of my Comparative Literature MA thesis was on the mermaid’s role in maintaining memory and identity in young adult literature. Through my research, I have come to see mermaids as more than just mythical creatures; they are symbols of transformation, resilience, and self-discovery.
It’s my mission to bring mermaids to the forefront of speculative and fantasy literature, giving them the prominent role they deserve.
Would you like to get Carried Away with me?
Instructor and The Carried Away founder, Ashley Fields, has worked in various aspects of publishing, including editorial and marketing. She received her BA from Vrije Universiteit Amsterdam and her MA in Comparative Literature from Utrecht University.
