The following is information about a course I’ll be running online, in June, courtesy of the City Lit Adult Education Institute. The course will last for two and a half hours, and is an introduction to the writing techniques invented by a group called the Oulipo.

Tutor

Terry Freedman

Blurb

Does your writing need a boost of inspiration? How about taking the rather counter-intuitive approach of imposing constraints on yourself? Learn about the ideas of a French movement known as the Oulipo. Start to experiment with interesting – and challenging – limitations, and see what happens! [44 words]

What is the course about?

This course will look at examples of constraints created by some of the Oulipo’s main proponents,  including the Hundred Thousand Billion Sonnets, the Metro Poem, and others. Course participants will have the opportunity to try out several techniques, and invent one or two of their own. In addition, there will be suggestions for further reading.

What topics will we cover?

·       What is the Oulipo?

·       How does the Oulipo differ from other approaches to creative writing?

·       What are the main techniques employed by Oulipians? We will look at a range of constraints and examples of some of them in use. These will include the lipogram, tautogram, N+7, preverbs and style exercises.

·       You will also have the opportunity to try out some techniques, and attempt to create your own.

By the end of this course you should be able to:

·       Understand what the Oulipo is.

·       Use several Oulipo techniques as part of your creative writing “toolkit”.

·       Know which books to read to further your familiarity with Oulipo writings and techniques.

What level is the course and do I need any particular skills?

This is an introductory course. and no previous knowledge or skills are required. Energy and enthusiasm are more important than writing experience.

How will I be taught, and will there be any work outside the class?

A mix of small group work, group discussion, tutor instruction, analysis tasks and writing tasks. You may be asked to complete a short pre-course questionnaire to help the tutor determine the most suitable level and type of material.

Are there any other costs? Is there anything I need to bring?

You will need a notebook and pen and, if possible, a printed dictionary.

For further information, watch this space, or sign up to my newsletter. For a version of this article that has been given an Oulipo treatment, see Yak The Oulipo: A Taxi