11th November 2019 by

Page Breaks: Opening Lines (Wed 13 Nov)

Stephen King is one of the authors whose work we encountered in our Halloween Works Loved session. This week we’ll discuss his advice on writing a compelling opening sentence. As you’re reading King’s suggestions and examples, you may also think of opening lines that have drawn you into a text – if so, please bring them along to share with others!

“There’s one thing I’m sure about. An opening line should invite the reader to begin the story. It should say: Listen. Come in here. You want to know about this.” – Stephen King

Text: “Why Stephen King Spends ‘Months and Even Years’ Writing Opening Sentences” (2013) (LINK)

Time and Place:

  • 13:00-14:00
  • Wed 13 Oct 2019
  • Arts 439 (Shackleton Room, 4th floor of the Arts building)

Please contact d.butchard@bham.ac.uk if you have any difficulty accessing the readings. You may need a Birmingham ID and password to download  PDFs.


About the Postgraduate Seminar:

This is an informal weekly reading group within the Department of English Literature. There will be tea, coffee and biscuits and you are very welcome. 

Find out more:

Page Breaks: Postgraduate Seminar in English Literature