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The term creative writing is used to discern certain types of
inventive or artistic writing from other general types of
writing. The field of creative writing is broad and includes
many different formats and genres of writing. The broad and
general description of it is purposeful in its effort not to
limit the imagination of the potential writer, or that of the
reader. Creative writing is totally different from other types
of writing, such as technical writing, scientific writing, or
copy-driven journalism. The discipline of creative writing
includes, but should not be limited to, works of fiction,
poetry, personal memoir or autobiography, song lyrics, plays and
screenplays, and any mixture of the above.
By and large, writing is a skill that is innate to a person.
Just like with other proficiencies, most types of writing often
comes easier to some people than to others. Therefore, it is
often thought that a person cannot be taught how to write,
especially creatively. Despite whatever natural talents for
writing a person might have, those talents often need to be
developed in order for the writer to realize his or her fullest
potential in the craft. Learning how to write creatively must
begin on the inside. A certain amount of individual experience,
opinion, and innate sensitivity must be tapped when taking on
the task of creative writing.
Creative writing is an artistic expression, like painting or
composing music. It is therefore subject to criticism, both
constructive and disrespectful. This should in no way deter a
person from writing creatively, or in any other way. Sometimes,
artistic expression is done just for the sake of doing it. There
does not have to be a reason to create something, and there does
not have to be an explanation behind the creation. The personal
expression is free. This sentiment holds especially true with
creative writing.
Creative writing courses are extremely popular and widely
available in various formats. Short-term workshops ranging from
merely a few hours to a day or several weekly sessions are
available through public libraries, community education centers,
and even community colleges. They are for everyone from the
beginner to the seasoned writer looking to polish his or her
skills.
In a creative writing course, there are many potential topics to
discuss and methods to teach at length. These topics include,
but are not limited to, techniques on brainstorming and
exploring creative ideas, overcoming writer's block, learning
how to structure work, overcoming the fear of people
reading/judging the created work, editing completed work, and
getting works published. Though some will argue that true
creative writing cannot be taught, it is widely acknowledged
that certain skills can be mined and honed, as well as certain
techniques taught, to make almost anyone at least a fair writer,
and not be afraid to unleash his or her creativity.
Many budding writers opt to study creative writing in college.
Often it can be an emphasis within a major in English, and a
4-year bachelor's degree can be earned. This can open doors to
many professional opportunities, as well as equip a writer with
the skills to either take a stab at freelance writing, or
translate his or her creative writing skills into other
professional arenas, such as public relations, advertising, or
editing.
For those whose writing ambition is to do creative writing as
more of a hobby, looking to the Internet for creative writing
websites is a good way to get work seen and gain insight into
the craft. Many creative writing websites offer bulletin boards
where writers can post works to be read and enjoyed, and where
feedback can be given reciprocally. Also, writers can find a
real community of individuals looking for other writers with
whom to trade and share ideas.
Some creative writing websites also offer some of the same
lessons and pointers on brainstorming and formulating ideas,
editing, publishing, and other techniques that many workshops or
writing courses offer, except it often does not cost anything
online, and it is more convenient. There is also the appeal of
the relative anonymity online, for the shy writer who is not
quite ready for the face-to-face public arena. True creative
writing might not be a learned talent, but the ability to tap
inner creativity is possible for just about anyone.
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