Critical Creative Writing: Essential Readings on the Writer's Craft

Critical Creative Writing is a comprehensive introduction to the key debates in creative writing today, featuring 25 essential works of criticism and a companion website with supplemental materials.

Format: Paperback / softback
Length: 296 pages
Publication date: 27 December 2018
Publisher: Bloomsbury Publishing PLC

This comprehensive anthology brings together a remarkable collection of 25 essential works of creative writing criticism, offering a thorough introduction to the key debates and discussions shaping the field today. Spanning a wide range of topics, from the ethics of appropriation to the politics of literary evaluation, this invaluable resource delves into the core aspects of creative writing.

Craft & Politics:

In this section, the book explores the intricate relationship between creative writing and the broader political context. It examines how writers use language and narrative to challenge dominant ideologies, question power structures, and advocate for social change. The essays analyze the ways in which creative writing can be used as a tool for resistance, subversion, and empowerment, highlighting the ways in which it can challenge the status quo and promote inclusivity and diversity.

Language & Community:

Another crucial aspect of creative writing criticism is the exploration of language and its role in shaping communities. The essays in this section examine the ways in which language can be used to create a sense of belonging, foster cultural identity, and promote understanding between different groups. They also explore the challenges of representing diverse voices and experiences in creative writing, particularly when it comes to issues of race, gender, sexuality, and class.

Identity & Authorship:

The book also delves into the complex issues of identity and authorship in creative writing. It examines how writers use their personal experiences, cultural backgrounds, and social identities to shape their work and how these identities can be both celebrated and challenged in creative writing. The essays explore the ways in which creative writing can be used to explore and interrogate notions of self, otherness, and belonging, highlighting the ways in which it can contribute to the construction of cultural and social identities.

Representation & Counternarrative:

Creative writing has the power to challenge dominant narratives and offer alternative perspectives. The essays in this section explore the ways in which creative writing can be used to represent marginalized voices, promote diversity, and challenge stereotypes. They also examine the role of counter narratives in shaping cultural and social identities, highlighting the ways in which they can contribute to the broader social dialogue.

Appropriation & Intertextuality:

The issue of appropriation in creative writing has become increasingly relevant in recent years. The essays in this section examine the ethical implications of borrowing, appropriating, and reimagining cultural traditions, languages, and narratives. They explore the ways in which creative writing can be used to honor and respect cultural heritage while also challenging dominant narratives and promoting inclusivity.

Evaluation & Genre:

Finally, the book addresses the evaluation of creative writing and the various genres within the field. The essays in this section examine the criteria used to assess the quality of creative writing, including the use of language, narrative structure, character development, and thematic exploration. They also explore the ways in which different genres, such as fiction, poetry, and drama, contribute to the broader literary landscape and how they can be used to convey complex ideas and emotions.

The Critical Creative Writing anthology is a testament to the rich and diverse nature of creative writing criticism. It brings together a diverse range of perspectives and voices, offering a comprehensive and nuanced understanding of the field. Each essay is contextualized with an introduction, sample questions, writing prompts, and suggested readings, making it an invaluable resource for both students and scholars of creative writing.

In addition to the anthology, the book also features a companion website (www.criticalcreativewriting.org), which offers a wealth of supplemental materials. These include lesson plans, course materials, and interviews with the authors, providing further insights into the critical debates and discussions explored in the book.

The Critical Creative Writing anthology is a must-read for anyone interested in the field of creative writing. It offers a comprehensive and accessible introduction to the key debates and discussions shaping the field today, and it provides a valuable resource for both students and scholars alike. By bringing together a diverse range of perspectives and voices, this anthology contributes to the ongoing dialogue and evolution of creative writing criticism.

Weight: 452g
Dimension: 157 x 233 x 16 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9781350023321