Title

English Videos: Writing Blocks

Method

What is it that distinguishes writers from would-be writers? Leading Australian writers reveal their idiosyncratic ways, from juggling time to the pens they use. Fiction writers discuss discipline and solitude, film writers the limitations of budget and factual writers the importance of research. The advice offered by these writers with years of experience may well break the young writer's 'block'.

(20 min) - Year of Production 1993

Inspiration

Tim Winton talks of his fascination with the coast, Martin Flanagan on the 'essential strangeness of experience' and Alex Miller on the visual arts as a source of inspiration. How important is a passionate subject? To what extent do writers rely on visual imagery? Does one have to be interesting to write interesting stories? Who are the main influences of these leading Australian writers? Do they write out of concern or beauty?

(18 min) - Year of Production 1993

Fiction

How does an author craft a novel? We talk to prize winning authors Tim Winton and Alex Miller about the complex processes of writing fiction, their views on plot, character and fiction as political statement. Top selling detective fiction writer Kerry Greenwood discusses conventions, point-of-view, scene and the mind of Phryne Fisher. Former teacher, now a successful teenage fiction writer, John Marsden, elaborates on the excellent advice he offered in 'Everything I Know About Writing'.

(33 min) - Year of Production 1993

Factual Writing

Teachers and critics advise students on the importance of catering for an audience. How do you 'tune in' to an audience? What sort of audiences are there? How specific can audience be? In factual writing, journalism, history and travel writing are looked at. What are their specific requirements? Martin Flanagan from The Age, James Lyon from Lonely Planet Travel Guides and historical writer Mary Clark e, give their views.

(19 min) - Year of Production 1993

Genre

Various fiction genres are discussed including literary, detective and magic realism. Leo Berkeley, Writer/Director of 'Holidays on the River Yarra', comments on feature film writing. Dr. Phillip Mead, co-editor of 'The Penguin Book of Modern Australian Poetry', discusses poetry. Other genres explored include radio copy, playwriting, copywriting and magazine writing.

(35 min) - Year of Production 1993

Responding to Texts

Editor of Meanjin, Jenny Lee discusses the role of the critic and literary magazines. Dennis Pryor, television critic for The Age, comments on the various approaches to criticism and the conventions of reviewing. A discussion of literary theories such as Psycho-analysis, Structuralism and Post-Modernism looks at their impact on criticism. Authors have their say in response to the critics and contemporary authors Peter Carey and Anne Tyler are analysed.

(21 min) - Year of Production 1993

Editing

Senior Commissioning Editor at Penguin, Bryone Cosgrove and other experienced editors outline the role of an editor and their relationship with authors. How often are they required to meet? How different can editors be? To what extent do editors re-write? Who looks after illustrations? What are the writer's rights? What makes a good editor? Editors and writers reveal what they think of one another. The importance of proofreading and marking up of manuscripts for publication.

(24 min) - Year of Production 1993

Publishing

Authors tell of rejection and fighting back. Ignorance of correct procedure and the common mistakes made are detailed as pitfalls for the young writer to avoid. Hidden opportunities and ways to maximize your chance of success are discussed. Prominent publishers describe the common faults of writers. Do you need an agent? What financial arrangements are commonly involved in signing a contract? Royalties? Are you able to self-publish? How does one become a publisher?

(25 min) - Year of Production 1993

Set of 8 Writing Blocks videos