Writing the Grotesque – with
Heather Parry
The gothic genre is having a moment. From Frankenstein to Wuthering Heights, we are discovering again the space this genre gives us to explore what it means to be human.
But how do we take such a beloved literary genre and make it our own? How can we write a story as enduring as impactful Kafka’s The Metamorphosis, or a novel as timeless as Frankenstein? This workshop will give you all the tools needed to write into the Grotesque, the gothic subgenre that is primarily concerned with exploring the transgression of boundaries — between the human and nonhuman, between comedy and horror, and between the real and the fantastical. With exercises designed to generate our own unique takes on tropes from the Grotesque, this workshop will both inspire and empower you to explore the Gothic on your own terms.
About the tutor
Heather Parry is a writer of fiction and nonfiction. Her debut novel, Orpheus Builds a Girl, was shortlisted for the Saltire Fiction Book of the Year award and longlisted for the Polari First Book Prize. She is also the author of a short story collection, This Is My Body, Given For You, and a short nonfiction book, Electric Dreams: On Sex Robots and the Failed Promises of Capitalism. She writes the Substack general observations on eggs. Her latest novel is Carrion Crow and her next book – a work of fiction – will be released in 2027.
About First Tuesday Writers
First Tuesday Writers is here to keep your writing fresh. Taking place on the first Tuesday of every month, each 90 minute session offers a deep dive into a writer’s creative world – designed to challenge and energise you, and lead you to new creative discoveries.
Every writer and every form of writing has something unique that we can learn and put to use in our own work. These workshops are all opportunities to learn from radically diverse writers – including poets, bloggers, crime writers and much more. Drop in for one or two events or sign up to them all: either way, you’ll leave buzzing, and ready to do your best and most innovative work.
Low cost places available
We believe the price of our courses should never be a barrier to your learning. If you are unable to pay for a place on this event, contact us to apply for a bursary place.