Personal Statement - English Literature with Creative Writing 2

Why do you want to study this course or subject?

'Once upon a time' is a universal introduction to storytelling. The phrase is generic - it has opened thousands of tales, whilst 'happily ever after' has undoubtedly ended just as many. However, my interest was sparked by the diversity in the telling of the tale. It is this that has inspired me to study literature. My fascination stems from an old love of storytelling and a more recently discovered interest in philosophy. Concepts concerning the author and the journey interest me more than the ending or beginning. I think the poignancy of literature rests in the ability of an author to shape minds, and that this is influenced by their particular discernment of the world.

Variety makes literature such a vibrant experience for me, and I endeavour to read from a wide selection of texts, from Bronte to Wilde. I am primarily interested in character-driven works, for example Murdoch's warming and poignant 'The Italian Girl', because I feel that the glimpse that these offer into the intricacies of the mind are affecting and altering for the reader. Ian McEwan's 'Enduring Love' was so moving and philosophically provocative due to the lack of a traditionally defined protagonist and antagonist, that I read his other works avidly. There is an underlying darkness in the way that he presents the vacillation of traditional values which I find fascinating. As a result, I have read many works that discuss morality, especially those which explore it in an idiosyncratic fashion, such as Nabokov's 'Lolita', which I found bleakly absorbing because of the unusual depiction of such a sordid theme in so charming a narrative voice. This sparked an interest in philosophical texts, leading to my reading of Plato's 'Symposium' and 'Thus Spoke Zarathustra' by Nietzsche.

Originally I found sanctuary in reading, but the captivation that I found in the myriad of worlds and existences in novels made me determined to become a novelist. I have dedicated much time to writing fiction, as it allows me to eschew the restrictions of daily life. Following Baudelaire's statement "Always be a poet, even in prose", I adore the elegant word mastery of the likes of Tennyson and Browning, whilst wishing to pursue the zest for storytelling of such compelling authors as Edgar Allan Poe. I have enjoyed the Nanowrimo challenge to craft a 50,000 word novel in 30 days. This required determination and perseverance, and I have discovered how important it is to set aside time every day to write. It also gave me the stimulating opportunity to meet and work with other writers, leading me to join a local writing group. I also organise and run a school writing club, with over 20 members. This confirmed my desire to study Creative Writing.

I would cherish the opportunity to study literature and the art of writing with others in a university environment to broaden my views, further my reading and aid my ambition to become a published novelist.

How have your qualifications and studies helped you to prepare for this course or subject?

Studying Latin and Classical Civilisation has provided the opportunity to study ancient texts in their original forms. I enjoyed Ovid's 'Metamorphoses' for the highly evocative epic metaphors and the audacious challenge that it poses to the conventions of epic poetry. This has given me a greater appreciation of classical texts and awareness of the way that the storytelling tradition has developed. I studied Fine Art to develop my imagination, which was creatively liberating.

What else have you done to prepare outside of education, and why are these experiences useful?

Opinion and viewpoint fascinate me. I am a founding member of a debating club, and enjoy the lively discussions that ensue. I have learnt to voice myself concisely and coherently, and to be highly analytical. In order to experience literature on a different level, I often attend plays, such as 'Hedda Gabler' and 'Travels with My Aunt'. I find that the transition from text to stage and the resulting dramatic interpretations enhance my appreciation. Playing the viola in an orchestra has shown me the importance of supporting others whilst also being a strong individual.

Universities applied to:

• UEA (English Literature Q300)
• UEA (English Literature with Creative Writing Q3W8)
• University of Birmingham (English Literature Q300)
• University of Birmingham (English Literature with Creative Writing Q3W8)
• University of Warwick (English Literature with Creative Writing QW38)

Grades achieved:

• Art (AS) - C
• Latin (A2) - B
• Classical Civilisation (A2) - A*
• English Literature (A2) - A*

How personal statements have changed?

The current personal statement format, with three 'scaffolding' questions, was introduced by Ucas in September 2025. This personal statement was submitted before then, using the old essay-style format. It has been carefully edited into the three-question format, with all of the original wording kept.

Need help with your personal statement? You can ask a question or get feedback from The Student Room community (and our trained personal statement experts) on the personal statement advice forum.