Synopsis

Discover the art of writing humor in prose with author and playwright Suffian Hakim.

This engaging three-hour workshop delves into the techniques employed by renowned authors and humorists like David Sedaris and Terry Pratchett. By analyzing their works, participants will grasp the essence of incorporating laughter into literature. Through a blend of insightful discussions and practical exercises, explore various aspects of humor, including joke techniques, situational humor, and the creation of endearing comedic characters.

Join us for an interactive session that promises to add a touch of LOL to your writing journey!

Learning Outcomes:

  • Recognize the role of humor in enriching prose.
  • Deconstruct and utilize various joke techniques and structures.
  • Create and implement situational humor effectively.
  • Develop characters that resonate with comedic elements.
  • Employ acquired skills to enhance their own writing, using examples from Terry Pratchett, Douglas Adams, David Sedaris, and Suffian Hakim.

Course Objectives:

  • Understand the significance of humor in storytelling.
  • Analyze joke techniques and their structural components.
  • Explore the dynamics of situational humor within prose.
  • Examine the characteristics of characters that evoke laughter.
  • Apply learned concepts to writing through guided readings and exercises.

Programme Itinerary:

  • Introduction (10 mins): Welcome participants and provide an overview of the workshop's objectives and structure.
  • Why Humor Matters (20 mins): Explore the significance of humor in storytelling and its impact on engaging readers.
  • Joke Techniques and Structure (30 mins): Deconstruct different joke techniques and discuss their structural components.
  • Break (10 mins)
  • Situational Humor (30 mins): Dive into the world of situational humor and learn how to create funny scenarios within prose.
  • The Characters We Love To Laugh At (30 mins): Examine beloved comedic characters and their unique traits that evoke laughter.
  • Break (10 mins)
  • Guided Readings and Analysis (40 mins): Analyze humorous excerpts from works by Terry Pratchett, Douglas Adams, David Sedaris, and Suffian Hakim.
  • Applying Humor to Your Writing (30 mins): Discuss practical strategies for incorporating humor into participants' own writing projects.
  • Wrap-up and Q&A (20 mins): Review key takeaways, address participant questions, and conclude the workshop on a high note.

Programme Details:

Date: 21 October 2023, Saturday

Time: 10.00 am - 1.00 pm

Venue: SBC Training Room, Goodman Arts Centre,

Blk E, #03-32

 

Cancellation:

The programme can be cancelled or postponed two weeks before the programme date if the minimum number of participants is not met. Participants will be fully refunded for workshops cancelled by us.

Participants who are unable to attend a workshop they have registered for are to inform us of the reason two weeks before the workshop date. They will be fully refunded in the event of extenuating and mitigating circumstances (E.g. illness, bereavement, accidents) . Those who inform us up to 5 working days before the workshop date will receive a 50% refund. Those who did not turn up at the workshop will not receive a refund.

Upon registration, you are deemed to have read and understood the cancellation and withdrawal policy and accept the terms contained therein.