Jeannine Gilbert-Finnigan

For those of us entrenched in the world of nonfiction, the leap into the realm of fiction writing often resembles stepping into uncharted waters. As a broadcast journalist and freelance writer for lifestyle publications, I was well-versed in crafting narratives grounded in truth. Yet, with its intricate character arcs and imaginative plots, the world of fiction posed a unique challenge. This challenge compelled me to enrol in the MA Creative Writing and Publishing course—an adventure I hope will redefine my creative process.

One aspect, of course, is to provide aspiring writers like me with essential skills to enhance our storytelling abilities. Although fiction was foreign territory, I was keen to explore how storytelling techniques could enrich my nonfiction writing. The Writing Fiction unit proved to be the perfect vehicle for experimentation, challenging me to develop compelling characters, construct engaging plots, and navigate diverse narrative styles. Each class pushed me to step outside my comfort zone, which was often accompanied by a mix of excitement and anxiety, especially during peer review sessions.

A pivotal element of the unit was the Self-Reflection workshop. This session encouraged me to critically evaluate my writing and identify areas for improvement. Engaging with my peers provided invaluable insights into their strengths, prompting me to confront my own limitations. I recognised that my written dialogue needed enhancement, and the constructive feedback I received from my classmates and the lecturer became instrumental in my growth.

One of the most gratifying aspects of this transition has been the transformation of real-life inspirations into believable characters. Breathing life into familiar faces by reshaping their names, motivations, and backstories was a joyous process that allowed me to explore the human experience with greater creativity and freedom. This process was liberating; it enabled me to delve deeper into the complexities of human behaviour and relationships, embracing the “what-ifs” that fiction allows.

Collaborating with peers during prompt exercises encouraged me to engage with various thought processes. It was a revelation to observe how others approached their writing. The collaborative environment fostered a sense of community, emphasising the value of feedback in honing our craft. Each writing prompt and critique refined my work and taught me to embrace feedback as an opportunity for growth.

Writing Fiction shed light on the significance of sensitivity readers—an aspect I had not considered deeply before. A conversation with a peer about representation and political correctness highlighted the evolving landscape of publishing and the necessity for care in crafting narratives. I challenged my peer to write about “racism in the classroom” based on my personal experiences and approached it through the lens of a sensitivity reader. This exercise prompted reflections on how such content might resonate within the Black community, reinforcing the importance of awareness surrounding stereotypes and harmful portrayals.

Ultimately, sharing drafts and receiving constructive criticism played a critical role in my evolution from a nonfiction writer to a fiction writer. The insights from my peers and lecturer, as well as their constructive criticism, provided essential guidance in capturing the emotional essence of my nonfiction work while developing a fresh and engaging fictional narrative. This process reshaped my perspective, encouraging me to view feedback not merely as a critique but as a vital component of my creative journey.

Through this transformative experience, I have discovered that the transition from nonfiction to fiction is not merely about changing the format of writing but also about embracing a new mindset. The skills I have acquired, the characters I have created, and the narratives I have shaped have enriched my writing process and deepened my appreciation for the art of storytelling.

 As I continue down this path, I look forward to exploring new stories and the myriad voices yearning to be heard. The possibilities are endless in this brave new world of fiction, and the journey has only just begun. I am not sure my work will ever be a ‘Bestseller’, but I am taking valuable lessons from the course.