Writing Workshop: Narrative Nonfiction

About WorkshoppenDo you dream of writing stories that draw on real facts, experiences and stories — but use the grip of literature to make them vivid, nuanced and immersive? Then this workshop is for you!

In this writing workshop, we dive into narrative nonfiction — a genre where real events turn into powerful, present narratives. We're working on how you can combine research, facts and personal voices with narrative techniques that create depth and reader engagement.

How do you create a story that is both true and exciting? How do you work with structure, characters and scenic production when it's real experiences you want to convey? And how do you balance documentation with artistic freedom?

In the workshop you will be given tools to:

Research and source criticism — Find and select facts, interviews, sources and material that can carry your narrative.Narrative techniques — Use scenes, dialogue, senses and perspective to bring your topics to life.Ethics and responsibility — How do you tell the stories of others with respect — and at the same time with strong voice and form? Your own voice — How do you find the personal angle that makes your text unique? We work with both short writing exercises and concrete examples, and there will be time for conversation and sparring along the way.

About the Instructor
Mette Mayli Albæk is a journalist, author and publishing manager for nonfiction at Politikens Forlag. She has a background as an investigative journalist and editor and today spearheads the publication of some of the strongest nonfiction stories in Denmark. She knows both the art of research and how to shape real stories into engaging literature.

Practical InfoWriting Workshop is aimed at adults.Participation is free, but requires registration at Billetto.The writing workshop takes place at Christianshavn Library, in the Othello room.We do not provide computers, so bring your own and/or paper and pen. There is very limited table space, so you probably have to sit with the computer/paper in your lap.We offer a writing pad that you can have as a base for your block/paper.There is a coffee machine in the library room, but in addition we cannot offer provisions. Bring yourself a water can or a bottle for water.Find wayWriting The workshop takes place in the Othello room at Christianshavn Library. From the entrance you can find Othello as follows: follow the wall on your right hand through the library room itself and turn around the first corner. Othello is located as a side room to the library room, but can easily be seen if you continue to follow the right wall.

Writing WorkshopsEvery month, Copenhagen Libraries invites you to writing workshops all over the city. The themes and trainers vary. Our writing workshops are not workshops, but stand-alone workshops of two hours in which lecturers give presentations and give participants writing exercises.

Do you have any questions? Write to literary distributor Poul-Louis by mail: i343@kk.dk