I left School at the age of 16 with a double "C" Grade for English (Language and Literature) and didn't further my education beyond studying for an NVQ. My only experience with any kind of Writing Exercise came when the latter book was being compiled. I had already written an entry for the book but wanted some feedback on it, so I attended the Poetry Workshop hosted by Vicky Ellis dedicated to this book. It was an excellent experience to receive said feedback, but Vicky also asked us to complete the exercise attached to the workshop too.
From memory, it consisted of:
- Selecting a photo associated with Poulton-Le-Fylde from one of the books about the Town and taking in all the elements that could be seen. I chose an old black and white photo of the Thatched Tavern Pub. Write down those elements.
- Place yourself outside the viewpoint of the photo and make an imaginary situation of what you were doing on that day when the photo was taken and write it down.
- Imagine the colours that could be seen. I had to use my imagination here. Write those down alongside what they pertain to.
- Write down what other things those colours could also be associated with such as: Brown Soil could also be a Brown Horse, Brown Suit etc.
- Imagine another Character that cannot be seen on the photo. Write down who they are, what they look like, how they are dressed and what they are doing.
- What happens next after the photo has been taken?
Following these guidelines this is what I ended up with:
Thatched Tavern Photo As I walk to the Churchyard to tend loved one gravesWith the Sky so overcast, gray and dullColour is injected by a green and gold signBrown suits stand by the Tavern, the call of Ale such a pull.A Photographer stands with equipment poised To capture this picturesque sightChins up, chests out, hands rested on pocket watchesMasculine dignity and pride show their might.A girl watches on out of sight and mindObserving her playmate standing so stillHer flaxen hair shines like the Sun's rays on the ThatchKeen to re-join prior pastimes, such a thrill.The Photo now taken, the people adjournTo tend to livestock or natter over a BeerBusiness back to usual behind those whitewash wallsOf The Thatched Tavern bringing merriment and cheer.
It was a very unusual approach for me to take and I must admit I struggled at first, but it opened my eyes what could be done should I ever suffer with writers block. It would come in very handy indeed. It not only offers an opportunity to challenge yourself by doing something you may never have tried before, but also the chance to try writing in different styles. Give it a go. You may just surprise yourself!
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Thanks for reading.
P.S. Apologies to Vicky if I have inadvertently missed out any of the steps of this exercise.
