Dictation, Intention, Volition: a fiction anti-workshop with With Ursula Robinson-Shaw
inSITU: Workshop Series
When we think of a short story, we might be forgiven for thinking of an aesthetic surface — an exercise in style, something glossy, contrived, merely accessory. Yet when we write fiction, we’re often encouraged to think first of intention — to ask what is my point?, then to figure out how to make it. Sontag describes style as ‘the principle of decision in a work of art, the signature of the artist’s will’. Will, for Sontag, is the attitude of a writer toward the world — the unconscious sensibility that motors a story. As opposed to work that merely rehashes or reformulates received forms, a stylish artwork expresses volition, or desire.
What does it mean for a story to desire? How important is literary intention to a writing practice? What would it mean to write shamelessly? This workshop will explore alternative approaches to narrative prose writing, aiming to move away from a focus on writerly craft, authority and self-discipline towards a desiring poetics.
10:30am - 12:30pm Saturday 1st June
Darebin Intercultural Centre, 350 High Street, Preston, Victoria 3072
The City of Darebin acknowledges the Wurundjeri Woiwurrung people who are the Traditional Owners of the land on which Darebin stands. We recognise their continuing connection to land, waters and culture. We pay our respects to Elders past, present and emerging.
This venue is fully wheelchair accessible, has all gender bathrooms, a prayer room and a low sensory space.
If you would like to come along and require Auslan Interpretation please send us an email at writingprojects@darebin.vic.gov.au
If this event is booked out and you would like to join a waitlist please email writingprojects@darebin.vic.gov.au
