Writing with Constraints

DISCOVER HOW PURPOSEFUL LIMITATIONS CAN SKYROCKET YOUR WRITING.

About the course:
Writing with Constraints is a four-week creative adventure designed to help you discover the freedom hidden within limits. Each session explores different forms of self-imposed limitation, from texts that avoid particular letters, and poems shaped to follow a strict word count, to inventive responses to paintings, or unconventional formats. Each week, you will write, share (if comfortable), reflect, and discuss, transforming constraints into creative tools that allow you to write better, more consciously, and with way more fun! You will discover how constraints can challenge habits and elevate your language, and learn to set (and bend) rules to suit your voice. Guided by prompts, group discussions, and peer feedback, you’ll develop a portfolio of a minimum of eight pieces. Whether you are a poet, storyteller, or simply looking for creative fun, Writing with Constraints will help you see writing as a space of endless invention. If you are curious about how structure can unleash creativity, then this course is for you!

What to expect:
The course will mix a multimedia-based lecture with a workshop. You will write and get feedback at each lesson; at the end of the course, you will have created a mini-portfolio of innovative poems. You will expand your knowledge of contemporary poets too, including Christian Bök, Sarah Riggs, Matt Martin, Gregory, Betts, Helen Frank, Kyle Flemmer, and many more! This course will have a maximum of 10 students.

Please note you have to be over 18 to join our courses.

COURSE LENGTH: short course: 4 weeks
TYPE: online, syncronous (live)
LEVEL: all writing levels are welcome
SCREEN TIME: 2 hours/week
WRITING TIME: 2 hours/week
START DATE: 16 July 2026
END DATE: 6 August 2026
TIME: 7PM UK time (7–9:15)

COURSE SCHEDULE: Thursdays: 16 July – 6 August
16 July: class 1
23 July: class 2
30 July: class 3
6 August: class 4