English-language creative writing in mainland China

Abstract

This paper presents the background, purpose and components of a creative writing course conducted in the Department of English at Sun Yat-sen University as part of the reform in the teaching of English in China. It explains and demonstrates the different components of the course and argues, drawing on evidence from students' work and reflections, that creative writing motivates students to write, is a good vehicle for improving students' proficiency in English, and enables them to think critically, and to share their common experiences. Creative writing is presented not just as an effective way to teach English as a second language but also to enhance students' personal development in general. It is hoped that such a course will eventually make it possible for more Chinese writers to share their unique cultural perspective with a wider audience through the medium of English. © 2010 Blackwell Publishing Ltd.