The Hewitt was awesome! I came into it with a very open mind. I had no idea how many people were going to be there, how the speeches were going to go, and especially what was going to be required of me at the historical fiction workshop.
When I told one of my good friends that I was taking a class on historical fiction he gave me a blank stare and asked if I just made stuff up…and at that point I was like yeah…I guess. I was only half right. Sure you get to add details to a piece of history to give it a twist but there’s so many facts that have to be accurate really it seems like the fiction only comes in to fill in the gaps that the average writer couldn’t possibly know. Things like how a woman would light a lamp in the 1700’s and whether a peasant would eat potatoes or turnips. (the answer is turnips, fun fact)
I suppose what I found most interesting today, (which is surprising) was listening to Heather Richardson explain the process of historical fiction. However, I was terrified she was going to make us write something the whole time we were there. Ironic, I know, who would expect you to write in a writing class?!?
The Baroness Williams of Crosby gave a presentation about violence in the 20th century today, which was very interesting. It always amazes me the amount of information speakers are able to share. I don’t think I could give a hour presentation on anything, let alone something completely history based.
All the “students” are very nice and welcoming. Almost everyone who has spoke to us is either familiar with the American students or is very excited to see our presentation on Wednesday. Hopefully we won’t disappoint!
