Raw Writing
Exeter-based writer and writing teacher Carla Jenkins tells us her story, about her writing courses, and upcoming opportunities for aspiring authors and creators.
What do you do?
I run courses and workshops for anyone who wants to write, whether it's a short story, a memoir or a novel. There are also ‘Pick and Mix’ courses for people who want to experiment with different types of writing, and one-off workshops where you can come and write for the pure fun of it. Beginners are very welcome.
How did you get started?
In 2019, I did a Masters in Creative Writing at Exeter University. I loved learning about the craft, being with others who loved reading and writing as much as I did, and the sense of community. When it was over, I missed it all so much that I decided to set up Raw Writing to recreate all those wonderful aspects of the MA and give to others what was one of the best experiences I’d ever had. Raw Writing enables people to learn about writing, improve their writing, and be part of a writing community.
Jem Sugden (also a brilliant editor) assists with the day-to-day running of the business and Jude Coram looks after the website.
Who do you work with and why?
People who come to my courses are from all backgrounds and range from their twenties to their eighties. They’re writing for different reasons and have different motivations – it might be just for the pure love of it, or they might be aiming to be published. Some people want to write a novel or memoir for that sense of achievement – and it is a huge achievement! Some want to enter short story competitions. The benefits of coming to a Raw Writing course or workshop are numerous. People enjoy being with others who share the same interest and being part of a community.
Name one thing that would make your life easier as an artist or arts organiser.
I’m looking for a social media assistant. My time is spent designing course content, teaching and writing so I need someone to help with marketing so I can spread the word about Raw Writing and more people can come and enjoy the courses and workshops.
And what keeps you going when things get tough?
The love of what I do and the belief that everyone’s life can be improved by writing. I’ve seen the transformative effect on people who come to my courses; they come in tired and leave invigorated. Once, a woman came back to the class a few minutes after it had finished to retrieve her walking stick!
We all need a creative outlet but we may not be musical or artistic. Anyone can write. In my groups, there is the perfect combination of being mentally challenged, enjoying the sense of purpose, and being creative with a group of people who share your passion.
The love of writing [has] given me so much. I want to give others this gift. For years, I used writing for therapeutic purposes until I had the confidence to admit I wanted to develop my skills and take it more seriously. I started taking courses and got a two-book deal with Hachette. Everything is possible and I want people who come on Raw Writing courses to dare to dream and honour the urge to write.
Tell us what a typical class looks like?
In a typical class, there will be a specific focus on an aspect of writing and then tasks that relate to it. People have time to write, and then the opportunity to share what they’ve written or how they found the process. Lively discussions abound, and because I limit the classes to eight people, everyone has a chance to be heard.
What does the next year look like for you?
There will be a Raw Writing Festival next year. I’m also setting up a Raw Writing Membership which will enable more people to start writing. I’ll be running online boot camps in the summer, too, in memoir and the novel.
What’s been the best moment for you or your group in the last year?
It’s impossible to define one moment! I love seeing the impact the courses have on people -when they start to believe in their writing and become stronger writers. It’s always a joy to see the friendships that develop, too.
In what ways are you helping to put Exeter on the cultural map, nationally or internationally?
Raw Writing offers high-quality writing courses and workshops and the chance to be part of a vibrant writing community.
What if ….?
I’d love Exeter Culture to help spread the word about Raw Writing to encourage people who have never written to give it a go. I have six-month courses in the novel starting in Exeter Phoenix in September. Places are limited to eight per group. www.rawwriting.co.uk
How do we find out more?
Website: www.rawwriting.co.uk
Email: carla@rawwriting.co.uk
Contact number: 07474 116771
Coming soon: ‘Pick and Mix’ courses starting in mid-April that give people the chance to experiment with different types of writing. You can join Carla for a sample session for free at the next RAMM Lates.
There is an Exeter Raw Writing Social on 19 April. These are held every month in central Exeter. These are free and all are welcome. Details here.
There are six-month courses in the novel starting at Exeter Phoenix in September. Places are limited to eight per group.
Carla’s debut novel, Fifty Minutes, is published by Hachette on 16 May.