...so you want to get into writing? I can help!

There’s a common misconception with creative writing that causes many people to view it as some impossible feat that only the select few can accomplish or succeed at. In reality, it’s just like any other skill: it takes time, practice, and study. In other words, anyone can write.

This is what my workshops are all about. In my classes, you are encouraged to take the time and space you need to learn and to grow. I want to create a welcoming and inclusive environment where you feel free to explore, to experiment, and to make mistakes along the way. My favourite things about writing are how it allows you to find joy and fulfillment through creativity, to explore and analyse human truths, and to develop and share your own voices. If that all sounds good to you, I'd love for you to join me!

Sign up here to receive regular updates and news about workshops. I will also soon be launching a newsletter, including writing prompts, book suggestions, and news about literary events happening in London, so stay tuned for news about that.

Who am I?

My name is Darby Brown. I'm a writer myself with a love for poetry, fiction, and creative non-fiction. My two specialisations are poetry-prose hybrid forms and fiction with a fantasy or speculative element, but I am also an avid reader of literary fiction. To learn more about my writing interests, check out my publications and my about page.

In terms of qualifications and experience, I hold an MA in Creative Writing and a BA in English with a focus in Creative Writing. I have been trained in workshop facilitation with Skaped, a creative arts charity based in London, and have ample experience running creative writing workshops, from working at a creative writing camp for secondary school students to being a teaching assistant for university-level classes.

In terms of teaching style, I aim to be kind, encouraging, and patient with my students. This will be our space, and I want to be flexible to meet participant needs. I also want these workshops to be fun - a place to relax, unwind, and enjoy creativity and community together.

Upcoming Workshops
Ekphrasis - writing inspired by art and music
  • About:
    • Ekphrasis is a fancy word that just means writing inspired by visual art. In this session, we're expanding the definition to include writing inspired by music (because it's just as fun!). In this two-hour session, we're going to look at examples of ekphrasis, discuss how this practice can be a source of creative inspiration, and have plenty of time to get creative with our own writing inspired by art and music.
  • More information
    • Date and time: Saturday 11 November 10:30 AM - 12:30 PM
    • Location: The Bedford Pub (Balham)
    • Price: £25
  • Sign up here.

Upcoming Courses
Get Into Writing: Fiction (8 weeks) - virtual
  • About:
    • This 7-work course is designed for adults who want to get into writing fiction. You'll learn about various writing techniques (including characterisation, plotting, and dialogue), start and/or develop your own stories, and receive feedback on your own work through communal workshops.
  • More information:
    • Dates and Times: Mondays 6 November - 18 December 6:00 -7:30 PM
    • Location: Zoom (link will be provided)
    • Price: £150 (option to pay monthly at £75)
      • If you sign up before 15 October you'll receive a discount to £130 (£65/month).
    • Note: The capacity will be capped at 15 to ensure that the participants receive individual attention and that everyone has the chance to share their work.
  • Sign up here. ​

I plan to reinstate my poetry and creative non-fiction courses in the New Year. Please register your interest here. I will announce dates and times soon.

The things that should be implied, but we're going to say anyway...

I will not tolerate any discrimination, hateful language or actions, or intolerance - both within the workshop context and within the writing itself. Writing often contains sensitive content; however, if you are approaching a subject in a way that honours or upholds hate, harmful stereotypes, or discrimination of any kind, then you will be asked to leave.

My workshops will be a welcoming space to all identities and lived experiences. I want to welcome all genders, sexes, skin colours, nationalities, religions, and any other identities that you hold close. I want these workshops to be accessible and inclusive. If you have any concerns or require accommodations, please let me know, and I will do my best to assist.