First Lines with Liane Wimhurst
Book ticketsDate
Tuesday 20 January 2026
Time
6:30pm - 8:30pm
Costs
Standard
Location
Deptford Lounge, SE8 4RJ
Please email for any further access needs here
The opening paragraph of a literary novel lets the reader know what to expect from the narrative. It might introduce a character or voice, declare a philosophy on life, or conjure a unique setting. In this workshop with writer Liane Wimhurst, participants will experiment with different techniques for beginning a novel.
What will you do in the workshop?
We will discuss the first paragraphs of contemporary literary novels. Participants are welcome to bring their own first lines for feedback and everyone will experiment with writing new beginnings. Writers will leave with a deeper understanding of what works in a novel’s opening and a greater awareness of what those early lines are telling the reader about the rest of the novel.
What can participants expect?
We will look at opening paragraphs from writers Olivia Sudjic, Olga Tokarczuk, Han Kang, Ocean Vuong and Chimamanda Ngozie Adiche. This will lead into a discussion of their different techniques and an opportunity to experiment with writing first lines in these modes.
Who is this opportunity for?
This workshop would benefit writers who have written a first draft or have an idea for a literary novel but are stuck on the opening.
Bursary places
We have 5 free bursary places available for writers on a low income. We define this as either earning on or below the London Living Wage and/or in receipt of benefits (e.g. Universal Credit). If you would like to request a bursary place, please email [email protected] with details of your eligibility for a bursary by 20 December 2025.
Access
If you require BSL interpretation, and/or have other access needs please email [email protected] so we can accommodate you.
