Simon Scarrow: History Man

Norwich Writers' Circle's 2009/2010 programme continued this evening with a visit from historical novelist Simon Scarrow.

The well-attended meeting started with Simon discussing the importance of history and how it shapes who we are, where we came from and where we are collectively going.

The novelist, whose latest book The Gladiator is currently riding high in the bestseller lists, also shared with us the importance of historical accuracy in fiction. Scarrow stressed that the plot was key, and that we must not to get too hung up on meaningless details. He added by saying that whilst storytelling is important, a balance must be made between keeping the plot moving and describing your characters' living era.

Simon's humorous and insightful talk was soon followed by a spirited discussion on the various subjects raised by the visiting writer, and much more besides.

The next NWC meeting at The Assembly House is on the 20th October. This meeting will feature another visiting author, Lucy McCarraher, who will be talking to us about fiction writing and publishing on demand.

We hope to see you next time.

Competition One Clarification

During our recent Open Evening, several visitors and Norwich Writers' Circle members asked for clarification of what is required for our Historical Novel Introduction Competition.

For this competition, which closes on 20th October, you will need to write the first 5 pages of an Historical Novel, using a maximum of 1,500 words.

The competition's adjudicator, Jean Fullerton, believes 'history' to cover time from 3,000BC to 1945. Jean has requested that the manuscripts are in a 12 point font, double spaced with wide margins, as standard. Finally, we have also been advised that we do not need to put the copyright symbol - © - on our entries.

For our In-House Competition Guidelines, please go here.

Open Evening

Norwich Writer's Circle's 2009/10 programme began tonight with an Open Evening, which saw several new members join our popular writing group.

The meeting itself gave an opportunity for the new NWC members to discuss their own writing interests, plus how they hope that joining the Circle will enhance their skills further.

One of the evening's highlights was the reading of several manuscripts, some of which were written by Circle members. These varied readings included poetry, a short story for children and the beginning of a historical novel.

Further historical novel excerpts were also read out to offer an idea of what is needed for NWC's first competition of the year. Amongst the first chapters read and discussed were books by Jean Fullerton and Simon Scarrow - both of whom are writers who will be visiting Norwich Writers' Circle in the coming months.

Simon Scarrow will be the visiting writer at our next meeting on 6th October. The famed historical novelist will be giving us the chance to hear his guide to writing in this bestselling genre.

We look forward to seeing you at our next meeting.