Morning folks, this is a very short posting but I promise to return later and up-date you on my day.... as I have a feeling it will be a wonderful one.
I have my graduation ceremony in a short while and so the whole house is busily preparing - all suited and booted.
I have to confess that haven't completed any writing this week - I've not even sat down for 30 minutes - which is first time this has happened in about fifteen years. The reason being is that due to a huge bust up with their mother - I now have two step-kiddies living in the house. So, as a result my writing week has been spent organising two teenagers and creating workable routines so I can return my focus back to my novel. But I promise, never again will I have such an unproductive week regards my writing.
Yesterday, I had an interview for a University course - I'll blush as I say, it went very, very well - I was graded 'outstanding' at interview and 'outstanding' for my essay!!!!! Never before has anyone thought me 'outstanding' so I shall enjoy it while it lasts.
And finally, my graduation is at The Symphony Hall in Birmingham - so as you can imagine I am soooooo excited to be celebrating an academic success.
So, I'll love you and leave you for now but I will be back later tonight (possibly with a glass or two of champers) to up-date you. Enjoy!
Update: Well hello - I'm back with an up-date.
I have had the most fabulous weekend ever. After saying bye to you guys on Saturday, we headed out to Birmingham. I've never been to the Symphony Hall before so was very impressed with the surroundings and the musical accompaniment. I fell in love with academic wearing robes - it all felt very Harry Potterish in a wonderful way so I am going to propose at school that all staff should dress in robes!
After a busy day of photographs, speeches and ceremony hype - the family went for a meal where darling husband surprised me by announcing that yes, I could have the poodle puppy that I've been wanting. So, you've guessed it, yesterday, we went to collect my beautiful little pup Teddy, a cream miniature poodle.
I've finally calmed down from all the excitment and I promise you, dear reader that I shall be at my desk, every night this week editing my novel.
Saturday, 25 June 2011
Saturday, 18 June 2011
University courses, new ideas and a day dedicated to writing
Morning folks - I'm an early bird today, as I was up with the lark. Hopefully you are all happy and healthy and have had a good week. I've had a strange one. I received some good news from a local University that have offered me an interview for Friday 24th June - which had me dancing with glee. I'm chasing a place on a university course and so far it has proved a difficult road - somewhat frustrating and draining as it has been going on since December 2010. Fingers crossed, Friday will bring a successful outcome.
Wednesday, brought me a light bulb moment in the middle of a year 7 German lesson - suddenly an idea for a new novel came out of the blue. I amazed myself when I started to make notes as the plot lines just appeared, connected beautifully and a whole wealth of humour became apparent. By the end of the day I was quite excited by the prospect of this new idea. So, my current plan has slightly changed - I am now going to continue to edit 'Her' whilst researching this new project in preparation for September. It'll mean a little bit of juggling but hey, I'm used to that.
My daily writing has gone well this week but I seem to be stuck in a rut regards chapter fourteen - I keep finding little sections that don't feel right and so I re-write it. Hopefully, today can bring an end to that vicious cycle. Roll on chapter fifteen!
Which brings me to today and why I am up sooooo early. I plan to have a whole day dedicated to my novel 'Her' just like I did two weeks ago (when hubby was climbing mountains). I have written myself a to-do list and prioritised my tasks - the aim is to complete before bedtime. I've silenced the telephone, set the t.v. to record any interesting programmes and lined up the coffee mugs. It seems strange but I do have a little routine, that has developed over the years, which helps me to settle prior to writing. Must haves include: hot drink, post-it notes, a freshly sharpened pencil, ear plugs (invaluable) and usually a sleeping cat snoring in its basket. Close to hand is the scrap book dedicated to this novel and above my writing desk is the magic white board sheet (amazing stuff) listing character names, ages and relationships. Once I'm settled, that's it I disappear into a world of my very own - until someone breaks that spell asking for clean socks or cooked food.
The whole writing routine issue was brought up earlier in the week, having watched the Sky Arts 'Book Show' which included the daily routine of Cecilia Ahern - the film clip showed her busily working in a rented office away from her family home. The office was incredibly tidy, befitting any corporate company, dressed with several bookcases and low slung sofas - by keeping office hours she has managed to produce an array of novels. This got me thinking, would that be the best option? Having an office away from the house in which to work, then closing the door at the end of each working day, for a quick stroll home. It's an experiment that I'm willing to conduct should anyone care to sponsor me, so that I can give up the day job and find an office close to home. Any takers? Thought not.
O.K. time is ticking on, and I've got a hot date with a lap-top - so I'll love you and leave you for another week. Remember you can follow me on twitter - odwyer_author.
Enjoy!
Wednesday, brought me a light bulb moment in the middle of a year 7 German lesson - suddenly an idea for a new novel came out of the blue. I amazed myself when I started to make notes as the plot lines just appeared, connected beautifully and a whole wealth of humour became apparent. By the end of the day I was quite excited by the prospect of this new idea. So, my current plan has slightly changed - I am now going to continue to edit 'Her' whilst researching this new project in preparation for September. It'll mean a little bit of juggling but hey, I'm used to that.
My daily writing has gone well this week but I seem to be stuck in a rut regards chapter fourteen - I keep finding little sections that don't feel right and so I re-write it. Hopefully, today can bring an end to that vicious cycle. Roll on chapter fifteen!
Which brings me to today and why I am up sooooo early. I plan to have a whole day dedicated to my novel 'Her' just like I did two weeks ago (when hubby was climbing mountains). I have written myself a to-do list and prioritised my tasks - the aim is to complete before bedtime. I've silenced the telephone, set the t.v. to record any interesting programmes and lined up the coffee mugs. It seems strange but I do have a little routine, that has developed over the years, which helps me to settle prior to writing. Must haves include: hot drink, post-it notes, a freshly sharpened pencil, ear plugs (invaluable) and usually a sleeping cat snoring in its basket. Close to hand is the scrap book dedicated to this novel and above my writing desk is the magic white board sheet (amazing stuff) listing character names, ages and relationships. Once I'm settled, that's it I disappear into a world of my very own - until someone breaks that spell asking for clean socks or cooked food.
The whole writing routine issue was brought up earlier in the week, having watched the Sky Arts 'Book Show' which included the daily routine of Cecilia Ahern - the film clip showed her busily working in a rented office away from her family home. The office was incredibly tidy, befitting any corporate company, dressed with several bookcases and low slung sofas - by keeping office hours she has managed to produce an array of novels. This got me thinking, would that be the best option? Having an office away from the house in which to work, then closing the door at the end of each working day, for a quick stroll home. It's an experiment that I'm willing to conduct should anyone care to sponsor me, so that I can give up the day job and find an office close to home. Any takers? Thought not.
O.K. time is ticking on, and I've got a hot date with a lap-top - so I'll love you and leave you for another week. Remember you can follow me on twitter - odwyer_author.
Enjoy!
Saturday, 11 June 2011
3 mountains, a Moleskine and 2 x writers' meetings
Good afternoon - late because of step kids weekend and a whole load of baby rabbit deliveries - so, my deepest apologies. The two nests of rabbits that I had bred are now ready for their new homes and so to help speed up the collection process I chose to deliver - which was great but has taken longer than I'd planned.
Anyway, I've had a strange week. Last weekend, Husband was away doing a mental 3 peaks challenge with his fire service friends (Ben Nevis, Scafell and Snowdon) all climbed in a weekend - I'm proud to say he made it, though it has taken a week for his aching to subside. I asked if he'd do it again, and without thinking he replied 'no chance' so it must have taken all he had as Hubby is no quitter. Whilst he was away climbing things, I stayed at home and had a writing weekend - enabling me to compile two chapters of 'Her'. I have to say, I did enjoy the silence of the house which allowed me to eat, drink and sleep my writing. Without sounding awful, I could do with a few more weekends to myself to finish this book, but hey, I wouldn't be without my boy.
I had two writers' meetings this week - Wednesday night at the Mad Hatters looked at one stage as if it would be cancelled due to lack of numbers but thankfully, three of us rallied around and made it a date. I read the end of a chapter that I'd been working on, Alex read a short story called 'Brief Encounter' and Janis read a delightful poem inspired by the Polesworth Poetry workshops. I was pleased that the other two found my little exert funny and yet understandably sad given the difficult relationships occurring.
My second writers' group at Coalville was with the Grace Dieu writers circle, a few new faces that I hadn't seen before - but all in all, a central core of people who have attended each time I have. I read chapter two of my novel - again I receive positive feedback with a few pointers regards a couple of sections which could do with clipping. The group is very mixed regards genres and styles - one piece in particular was hilarious, tears streamed down our faces as one guy read his short story aloud. I have to say, it is quite unnerving when someone is able to keep such a straight face while reading a funny piece - the audience didn't know whether it was supposed to be that funny until he had finished. Thankfully, it was - I can't imagine how we'd have got out of the situation if he hadn't meant it to be. Anyhow, a good night was had by all.
I can honestly say that I've gained so much from being part of writing circles - you are able to be with like minded people, who share your interests if not your genre - who experience the creation process and know how it feels - good or bad. I have belonged to three in total, the first one I went to wasn't my cup of tea - I didn't feel comfortable sharing my work or discussing others. I also noticed that certain members weren't fair with their time or critique. I went for about six months but never settled in. Luckily, I was brave enough to continue my search and found two other groups that suit me down to the ground and am grateful that I wasn't put off the whole writers' group idea. Though, my first experience has bode me well in that I remember how they made me feel and have since written a short story based on my experience - see nothing as ever wasted when you're a writer.
Moleskine - this week I have joined the club and purchased my very first Moleskine notebook. I have looked at these tiny pocket books so many times, and been put off for one reason or another - but this week I bought one! And, I do say, I love it. I have a thing about the feel of paper, and it is beautiful to write upon - one of my geek things. I feel as if I've just admitted a secret indulgence but yes, I secretwriter have a thing about paper, pens.... anything stationery in fact. I'm more than happy wandering about in stationery shops browsing - my obsession is probably the equivalent of the normal woman's shoe shopping addiction. They collect high heels, I collect coloured ink! So, there you have it - I have succumb to the Moleskine brigade - and I honestily, don't know why it took me sooooo long. I have a funny feeling that there is no turning back from this point. I'll add the website link. Disclaimer: I will not be held responsible for your cash balance or your sanity having viewed the site and decided that you too deserve such a luxury. www.moleskine.co.uk
Have a great week and enjoy.
Anyway, I've had a strange week. Last weekend, Husband was away doing a mental 3 peaks challenge with his fire service friends (Ben Nevis, Scafell and Snowdon) all climbed in a weekend - I'm proud to say he made it, though it has taken a week for his aching to subside. I asked if he'd do it again, and without thinking he replied 'no chance' so it must have taken all he had as Hubby is no quitter. Whilst he was away climbing things, I stayed at home and had a writing weekend - enabling me to compile two chapters of 'Her'. I have to say, I did enjoy the silence of the house which allowed me to eat, drink and sleep my writing. Without sounding awful, I could do with a few more weekends to myself to finish this book, but hey, I wouldn't be without my boy.
I had two writers' meetings this week - Wednesday night at the Mad Hatters looked at one stage as if it would be cancelled due to lack of numbers but thankfully, three of us rallied around and made it a date. I read the end of a chapter that I'd been working on, Alex read a short story called 'Brief Encounter' and Janis read a delightful poem inspired by the Polesworth Poetry workshops. I was pleased that the other two found my little exert funny and yet understandably sad given the difficult relationships occurring.
My second writers' group at Coalville was with the Grace Dieu writers circle, a few new faces that I hadn't seen before - but all in all, a central core of people who have attended each time I have. I read chapter two of my novel - again I receive positive feedback with a few pointers regards a couple of sections which could do with clipping. The group is very mixed regards genres and styles - one piece in particular was hilarious, tears streamed down our faces as one guy read his short story aloud. I have to say, it is quite unnerving when someone is able to keep such a straight face while reading a funny piece - the audience didn't know whether it was supposed to be that funny until he had finished. Thankfully, it was - I can't imagine how we'd have got out of the situation if he hadn't meant it to be. Anyhow, a good night was had by all.
I can honestly say that I've gained so much from being part of writing circles - you are able to be with like minded people, who share your interests if not your genre - who experience the creation process and know how it feels - good or bad. I have belonged to three in total, the first one I went to wasn't my cup of tea - I didn't feel comfortable sharing my work or discussing others. I also noticed that certain members weren't fair with their time or critique. I went for about six months but never settled in. Luckily, I was brave enough to continue my search and found two other groups that suit me down to the ground and am grateful that I wasn't put off the whole writers' group idea. Though, my first experience has bode me well in that I remember how they made me feel and have since written a short story based on my experience - see nothing as ever wasted when you're a writer.
Moleskine - this week I have joined the club and purchased my very first Moleskine notebook. I have looked at these tiny pocket books so many times, and been put off for one reason or another - but this week I bought one! And, I do say, I love it. I have a thing about the feel of paper, and it is beautiful to write upon - one of my geek things. I feel as if I've just admitted a secret indulgence but yes, I secretwriter have a thing about paper, pens.... anything stationery in fact. I'm more than happy wandering about in stationery shops browsing - my obsession is probably the equivalent of the normal woman's shoe shopping addiction. They collect high heels, I collect coloured ink! So, there you have it - I have succumb to the Moleskine brigade - and I honestily, don't know why it took me sooooo long. I have a funny feeling that there is no turning back from this point. I'll add the website link. Disclaimer: I will not be held responsible for your cash balance or your sanity having viewed the site and decided that you too deserve such a luxury. www.moleskine.co.uk
Have a great week and enjoy.
Saturday, 4 June 2011
A mad rush, writing dead line and Olympics tickets
Good morning, I'm wide awake and raring to go on this sunny morning. I have the house to myself for the next 48 hours and I intend to spend it writing, writing and possibly, reading. Hubby is away doing a climbing/treking challenge of three peaks in twenty four hours so I have set a self imposed challenge to have a weekend dedicated to my novel.
Last week was a strange one, I was on school holiday but the beginning of the week was dedicated to step kiddies, then I had to complete a university application which took me an age to finish and post. Funny story: I finished the application, dashed off to the post office just before the mail deadline, to return home filled with glee that that task was complete only to realise in horror that I hadn't signed it. The most important part, which I'd left till last and then had forgotten to do. I must have looked like a mad woman dashing into the post office armed with a black pen and cellotape - anyway the kind man obliged by giving me back the envelope (they're not supposed to - Queen's service and all that) so that I could open, sign and reseal.
Wednesday, dawned the first of the month. I love the beginning of the month as it gives me chance to set little goals and targets for the coming four weeks - sad I know but please indulge me here. Anyhow, 1st June delivered the great news that me and Hubby had been allocated tickets for the Olympics 2012 - we'd requested the football final at Wembley and the final day of atheletics - we're not entirely sure which we've been granted as the amounted debited from our account doesn't match our ticket applications - we are assuming they have downgraded our seats - but who cares, I going to the London Olympics!!!
I've set myself a deadline of 31st August for this draft of my novel to be completed and ready for an agent to read. I'm starting to collect ideas for other books and know I can't possibly begin until this one is doing the rounds. So, given that I'll have six weeks holidays starting mid July, I see no reason why my novel shouldn't be complete by the time I head back to school.
On the subject of other novel ideas, I'll share how I start laying down the foundations of a book. I start by buying a lined scrap book - then I dedicate each page to a different element, for example, my main character will have their own page. I'll find a suitable name, description, even a picture from the local newspaper or internet that best fits my mind's image. Within this one book will be every detail relating to my novel - every idea, plot twist, photographs of settings, beautiful words, dates and times of events, map drawings. I find this method is invaluable when I start writing as everything is to hand, nothing is forgotten or lost. In the next few weeks I plan to purchase the next scrap book in preparation for 1st September.
I still haven't received any rejection letters regards the two short stories that were sent out to publishers a month or so ago - so fingers crossed they are somebodies desk getting a thorough reading. I intend to write a new one aimed at People's Friend - though I have to say their house style is very different to how I write, so I'll need to tailor my writing to fit their desired requirements.
I have started to read 'Middlemarch' by Eliot - a book that has been recommended by numerous people over the years, and which I plaeced on my April Fool list. I began reading it yesterday and so far so good, it isn't an easy read but the era and characters are strongly defined which has enabled me to battle through the elaborate language. I'm currently on chapter six, where the main story is beginning to ignite - so maybe the reading will become a little easier - though somehow I doubt it. Over the years I've leant a lot about George Eliot's life (real name Mary Ann Evans) and the difficulties that she had pursuing a role outside of the female norm. The BBC showed an interesting documentary about her struggles to be freed from her religious upbringing in order to follow her own path to self development and education which eventually led her towards writing. Whilst reading 'Middlemarch' the same values are being addressed through the main characters - defining the quote 'write what you know' it's very obvious that Eliot did exactly that.
So, I shall love you and leave you and head towards a day of writing in an empty house which is a 'luxury' I don't often receive - enjoy!
Last week was a strange one, I was on school holiday but the beginning of the week was dedicated to step kiddies, then I had to complete a university application which took me an age to finish and post. Funny story: I finished the application, dashed off to the post office just before the mail deadline, to return home filled with glee that that task was complete only to realise in horror that I hadn't signed it. The most important part, which I'd left till last and then had forgotten to do. I must have looked like a mad woman dashing into the post office armed with a black pen and cellotape - anyway the kind man obliged by giving me back the envelope (they're not supposed to - Queen's service and all that) so that I could open, sign and reseal.
Wednesday, dawned the first of the month. I love the beginning of the month as it gives me chance to set little goals and targets for the coming four weeks - sad I know but please indulge me here. Anyhow, 1st June delivered the great news that me and Hubby had been allocated tickets for the Olympics 2012 - we'd requested the football final at Wembley and the final day of atheletics - we're not entirely sure which we've been granted as the amounted debited from our account doesn't match our ticket applications - we are assuming they have downgraded our seats - but who cares, I going to the London Olympics!!!
I've set myself a deadline of 31st August for this draft of my novel to be completed and ready for an agent to read. I'm starting to collect ideas for other books and know I can't possibly begin until this one is doing the rounds. So, given that I'll have six weeks holidays starting mid July, I see no reason why my novel shouldn't be complete by the time I head back to school.
On the subject of other novel ideas, I'll share how I start laying down the foundations of a book. I start by buying a lined scrap book - then I dedicate each page to a different element, for example, my main character will have their own page. I'll find a suitable name, description, even a picture from the local newspaper or internet that best fits my mind's image. Within this one book will be every detail relating to my novel - every idea, plot twist, photographs of settings, beautiful words, dates and times of events, map drawings. I find this method is invaluable when I start writing as everything is to hand, nothing is forgotten or lost. In the next few weeks I plan to purchase the next scrap book in preparation for 1st September.
I still haven't received any rejection letters regards the two short stories that were sent out to publishers a month or so ago - so fingers crossed they are somebodies desk getting a thorough reading. I intend to write a new one aimed at People's Friend - though I have to say their house style is very different to how I write, so I'll need to tailor my writing to fit their desired requirements.
I have started to read 'Middlemarch' by Eliot - a book that has been recommended by numerous people over the years, and which I plaeced on my April Fool list. I began reading it yesterday and so far so good, it isn't an easy read but the era and characters are strongly defined which has enabled me to battle through the elaborate language. I'm currently on chapter six, where the main story is beginning to ignite - so maybe the reading will become a little easier - though somehow I doubt it. Over the years I've leant a lot about George Eliot's life (real name Mary Ann Evans) and the difficulties that she had pursuing a role outside of the female norm. The BBC showed an interesting documentary about her struggles to be freed from her religious upbringing in order to follow her own path to self development and education which eventually led her towards writing. Whilst reading 'Middlemarch' the same values are being addressed through the main characters - defining the quote 'write what you know' it's very obvious that Eliot did exactly that.
So, I shall love you and leave you and head towards a day of writing in an empty house which is a 'luxury' I don't often receive - enjoy!
Saturday, 28 May 2011
Writers' groups, a typo and yay, a holiday!
Good evening folks - sorry that I'm about ten hours late but it is a step-kiddy weekend and so all hell lets loose in this house and my weekly routine hits the skids.
Anyway, I did as I promised last week and knuckled down to writing every day - I even managed to take my IPad 2 into work and do a little bit during my lunch time, when I wasn't reading. I must say that owning an Ipad has made it far easier for me to snatch moments in time - mainly for research as I now have the internet with me where ever I go, but also little snippets of ideas and random thought - of which I have many!
Sadly, on Wednesday I had to cancel my attendance at my usual Mad Hatter meeting due to a crisis at school - which I won't go into. But, thankfully I managed, or rather was determined having missed one group meeting to attend the Grace Dieu Writers' Cirlce on Thursday. I read chapter one from my novel 'Her' to the group. They loved it! I received positive feedback for the characters, their setting and the chatty style. My first chapter is only a thousand words, which is pretty short but I do manage to depict the growing tension between characters - hinting at the difficulties that lie ahead. There was one detail that ignited conversation and that was 'are asparagas tips' a Christmas vegetable? Now, I've read this extract to many, many people and this was the first time that a writer/gardener had picked up on a possible inacurracy. I thanked them for noticing such a small detail, which I have since deleted. It goes to show that a writer must share their work in order to perfect it.
Continuing with typos in writitng, I experienced the disappointment of finding one in my current reading book. The author had made the mistake of calling a character by the wrong name, Lewis instead of Louis. I'd read three quarters of the book with little Louis running about on chubby little legs only to turn the page to find Lewis. I had one of those double take moments before realising that the whole page contained Lewis but then it switches back to Louis. I personally would be so upset if a published novel of mine had that kind of error. Which goes some way to explaining why I was so grateful to Tony on Thursday for pointing out the asparagas error.
Last week, I spoke about my writing place - this week I'll say a little about my reading habit. I am an avid reader, always have been since a little girl. I read everyday at numerous times of the day. I fill any spare moments before work with a page or two, lunch time is mainly reading and then I read before bedtime. I can sometimes snatcha few pages whiel the dinner cooks, but no always. I always have several books on the go at the same time, mainly due to my location and the format; traditional book or ebook on Ipad. Beside my bed, I have Winifred Gern's biography of Emily Bronte - which I'm currently half way through. The Brontes are another of my fascination, one of many I hear you say. I have learnt that Emily seems to be the geeky/nerdy sister, being very introverted and shy in company and only being herself when amongst nature. The book is beautifully written, portarying in detail her daily life within the confines of Haworth, Yorkshire. I love how aspects of Emily's life appears within 'Wuthering Heights', from the Irish travellers in Liverpool through to incestuous neighbours living close by on the Moors.
My second current read, on ebook on Ipad is 'Meet me at the cupcake cafe ' by Jenny Colgan - this is the book mentioned earlier, but it hasn't taken away my enjoyment. This is the first ebook that I've downloaded and so far I've enjoyed the 'novelty' of electronic pages, but it isn't the same as feeling the weight of paper, print, or that book smell within your palms. Anyway, back to the novel. A light hearted chick lit, which is very funny, a little twee in places but hey, a girly book to escape too during my lunch time - which is what I want from chick-lit.
My third book, also an ebook is 'Forget you had a daughter' written by Michael Tierney/Sandra Gregory - this book traces the real life horror of a naive British teenager caught smuggling drugs though Bangkok airport - and her struggle during her imprisonment in the notorious 'Bangkok Hilton'. I'm only on chapter two but already I'm hooked on her story. As silly as her actions were, her honesty is refreshing - she shoulders the blame from the very start delivering a strak message of just how easy it is to mix with the wrong crowd and end up in trouble.
My fourth - honestly, I am reading four books - is War and Peace by Tolstoy - with an endless cast of characters, whose names I can't even begin to pronounce. I'm not sure if I'm loving this book or loathing it. It's a book that I vowed I would one day read and so I began it at the New Year 2011 - maybe on completion I'll be able to say more, but at present the jury is still out discussing the verdict. So, that's my four (shakes head) my four books, that I am currently reading. The other books that I have read this year are noted on a side bar of my blog.
And finally, school holidays have arrived so, I am offically a writer for one whole week! Now, as I said earlier, the step-kiddies are staying but I am determined to write for at least four hours each day. Honest - I have promised myself, and now you! I shall have bum on seat, fingers on keyboard working the 'magic' early each morning so that I can spend the rest of the day decorating - hopefully!
Thanks for reading, sorry it was a late entry but the kids kept me busy with a high demand for blackcurrent squash!
Anyway, I did as I promised last week and knuckled down to writing every day - I even managed to take my IPad 2 into work and do a little bit during my lunch time, when I wasn't reading. I must say that owning an Ipad has made it far easier for me to snatch moments in time - mainly for research as I now have the internet with me where ever I go, but also little snippets of ideas and random thought - of which I have many!
Sadly, on Wednesday I had to cancel my attendance at my usual Mad Hatter meeting due to a crisis at school - which I won't go into. But, thankfully I managed, or rather was determined having missed one group meeting to attend the Grace Dieu Writers' Cirlce on Thursday. I read chapter one from my novel 'Her' to the group. They loved it! I received positive feedback for the characters, their setting and the chatty style. My first chapter is only a thousand words, which is pretty short but I do manage to depict the growing tension between characters - hinting at the difficulties that lie ahead. There was one detail that ignited conversation and that was 'are asparagas tips' a Christmas vegetable? Now, I've read this extract to many, many people and this was the first time that a writer/gardener had picked up on a possible inacurracy. I thanked them for noticing such a small detail, which I have since deleted. It goes to show that a writer must share their work in order to perfect it.
Continuing with typos in writitng, I experienced the disappointment of finding one in my current reading book. The author had made the mistake of calling a character by the wrong name, Lewis instead of Louis. I'd read three quarters of the book with little Louis running about on chubby little legs only to turn the page to find Lewis. I had one of those double take moments before realising that the whole page contained Lewis but then it switches back to Louis. I personally would be so upset if a published novel of mine had that kind of error. Which goes some way to explaining why I was so grateful to Tony on Thursday for pointing out the asparagas error.
Last week, I spoke about my writing place - this week I'll say a little about my reading habit. I am an avid reader, always have been since a little girl. I read everyday at numerous times of the day. I fill any spare moments before work with a page or two, lunch time is mainly reading and then I read before bedtime. I can sometimes snatcha few pages whiel the dinner cooks, but no always. I always have several books on the go at the same time, mainly due to my location and the format; traditional book or ebook on Ipad. Beside my bed, I have Winifred Gern's biography of Emily Bronte - which I'm currently half way through. The Brontes are another of my fascination, one of many I hear you say. I have learnt that Emily seems to be the geeky/nerdy sister, being very introverted and shy in company and only being herself when amongst nature. The book is beautifully written, portarying in detail her daily life within the confines of Haworth, Yorkshire. I love how aspects of Emily's life appears within 'Wuthering Heights', from the Irish travellers in Liverpool through to incestuous neighbours living close by on the Moors.
My second current read, on ebook on Ipad is 'Meet me at the cupcake cafe ' by Jenny Colgan - this is the book mentioned earlier, but it hasn't taken away my enjoyment. This is the first ebook that I've downloaded and so far I've enjoyed the 'novelty' of electronic pages, but it isn't the same as feeling the weight of paper, print, or that book smell within your palms. Anyway, back to the novel. A light hearted chick lit, which is very funny, a little twee in places but hey, a girly book to escape too during my lunch time - which is what I want from chick-lit.
My third book, also an ebook is 'Forget you had a daughter' written by Michael Tierney/Sandra Gregory - this book traces the real life horror of a naive British teenager caught smuggling drugs though Bangkok airport - and her struggle during her imprisonment in the notorious 'Bangkok Hilton'. I'm only on chapter two but already I'm hooked on her story. As silly as her actions were, her honesty is refreshing - she shoulders the blame from the very start delivering a strak message of just how easy it is to mix with the wrong crowd and end up in trouble.
My fourth - honestly, I am reading four books - is War and Peace by Tolstoy - with an endless cast of characters, whose names I can't even begin to pronounce. I'm not sure if I'm loving this book or loathing it. It's a book that I vowed I would one day read and so I began it at the New Year 2011 - maybe on completion I'll be able to say more, but at present the jury is still out discussing the verdict. So, that's my four (shakes head) my four books, that I am currently reading. The other books that I have read this year are noted on a side bar of my blog.
And finally, school holidays have arrived so, I am offically a writer for one whole week! Now, as I said earlier, the step-kiddies are staying but I am determined to write for at least four hours each day. Honest - I have promised myself, and now you! I shall have bum on seat, fingers on keyboard working the 'magic' early each morning so that I can spend the rest of the day decorating - hopefully!
Thanks for reading, sorry it was a late entry but the kids kept me busy with a high demand for blackcurrent squash!
Saturday, 21 May 2011
Fizz 7, Derren Brown and my writing desk
Good morning, Folks. I have a confession to make, so listen up as I'll say this only once - I've have done very little writting this week due to a busy, busy schedule... but I have experienced lots of new things which all aids my writing.
Firstly, Tuesday was the poetry Fizz 7 evening, which I've reviewed in the post before this one. It was a wonderful evening, I read for the very first time, which wasn't as nerve racking as I thought it would be. I was amazed but please to see such a high turn out - which added to the occasion.
Wednesday, I spent the majority of the evening writing the review, and saying goodbye to a fellow writer Paul who is heading to Prague for a year. Funny story alert: Paul went to the wrong location on Tuesday night for the Fizz 7. We were in the Abbey refectory, he went to the Tithe barn and interupted the local council meeting - bless him. Thankfully, he found us in time to share in the evening.
Thursday, I spent the evening in Birmingham at The Alexandra Theatre watching Derren Brown, the illusionist. Now for folks that don't know me; I love this man. He plays with your mind and scrambles your head by creating illusions, reading peoples' body language - all in the name of entertainment. But the best thing, is not knowing how he does it. Three days on, and I'm still walking about trying to figure out how he does, what he does. It was the fourth time that I've seen him and he still takes my breath away.
Friday, I shocked a class of year 10 pupils by acting out the character of Joan, a 62 years old, who collects teapots. I was asked to demonstrate how they should perform a 'character in role' piece for their speaking and listening assessment. So I did. Now you've got to remember that this particular class don't know me as well as my own classes do. My own classes know that I can suddenly start performing, drop in little funnies, as well as be the wicked witch giving out detentions. Within a space of five minutes, they were on their feet applauding, as I'd morphed into a bitter old lady, ranting about her beloved teapots being broken. Once they'd calmed down and settled back into their seats, and I morphed back into me, I explained that with creative writing you have to put yourself in another person's shoes. You have to imagine yourself as that charcater in order to write a realistic account of their behvaiour, dialogue, mannerisms - then hopefully you can capture their essences upon paper. Fingers crossed, that next week's assessment goes O.K. for them, and I'm pretty sure that the name Joan will be shouted down a corridor or two next week as I pass by.
I also surprised some of the year 11s, by creating little poetry ditties for their memory books. I don't write one for every child, just the ones that have been taken under wing, shall we say. It has been a pleasure to watch them share and enjoy the humour of words captured in a few short lines.
The school newsletter carried the story of the Polesworth Poetry Trail this week, too. I'd mentioned my poem to several people and low and behold was asked for a copy of 'Jutt' so it could appear next to the article. Again, just a small piece but it conveys to the pupils that anyone can be creative using words. I didn't realise just how much I've completed at school this week.
And finally, I thought I'd share with you the basics of my writing - where I write. In the corner of the dining room, is where my old wooden writing bureau, the kind with the flip down front, proudly resides. I searched for ages for the right desk, one which looked decorative when closed, but fully functional and most importantly, had the right feel to it. My desk, when open, has lots of tiny wooden drawers, cubby holes and nick knack slots - so that everything I could possible need is at hand. I have a row of paper weights, collected but never used which sit before me as I write. One top of the writing bureau, sits my grandfather's clock - which never strikes the right time, it is always two stricks out, so at ten o'clock it will sound twelve strikes. My hubby keeps offering to get it mended, but I don't want it touched, it reminds me of my grandfather - always slightly out of kilt with everyone else. Next to the crazy clock, I have a happy buddah, who sits next to a small glass containing coloured wax in black and white, mimicking a glass of Guinness. The Gunniess candle came from the Guinness Storehouse in Dublin, where the Queeen has just visited (note: I drank the pint of Guinness whereas old Libby refused). On the other side of the crazy clock, sit three crystal eggs; a blue moonstone, a lapis lazuli and a rose quarzt - I use these to meditate with or simply play with whilst I'm thinking. My chair, which hubby/stepchildren are banned from sitting in, is a brown whicker chair, with a couple of old cushions. I bought it especially for writing, hence the reason no one is allowed to be seated - just me, oh and my beautiful cat, Czar. I also have a crystal hanging from the window, as I love to see the rainbows appear on the painted wall in the late afternoon.
Over the years I've found that it doesn't matter how much I plan to write, create time for writing I can somethings miss the slots and avoid doing the job. So, on days when I'm tired, don't feel like thinking, I go through the motions of sitting at my desk, fingers on the laptop's keyboard because the 'magic' always happens once I'm seated ready for business.
Wow, I sat down thinking I hadn't much to write about this week, but hey the words have just flowed. Enjoy your week - I have two writers' meeting this week so need to hone a few pieces to read aloud.
Firstly, Tuesday was the poetry Fizz 7 evening, which I've reviewed in the post before this one. It was a wonderful evening, I read for the very first time, which wasn't as nerve racking as I thought it would be. I was amazed but please to see such a high turn out - which added to the occasion.
Wednesday, I spent the majority of the evening writing the review, and saying goodbye to a fellow writer Paul who is heading to Prague for a year. Funny story alert: Paul went to the wrong location on Tuesday night for the Fizz 7. We were in the Abbey refectory, he went to the Tithe barn and interupted the local council meeting - bless him. Thankfully, he found us in time to share in the evening.
Thursday, I spent the evening in Birmingham at The Alexandra Theatre watching Derren Brown, the illusionist. Now for folks that don't know me; I love this man. He plays with your mind and scrambles your head by creating illusions, reading peoples' body language - all in the name of entertainment. But the best thing, is not knowing how he does it. Three days on, and I'm still walking about trying to figure out how he does, what he does. It was the fourth time that I've seen him and he still takes my breath away.
Friday, I shocked a class of year 10 pupils by acting out the character of Joan, a 62 years old, who collects teapots. I was asked to demonstrate how they should perform a 'character in role' piece for their speaking and listening assessment. So I did. Now you've got to remember that this particular class don't know me as well as my own classes do. My own classes know that I can suddenly start performing, drop in little funnies, as well as be the wicked witch giving out detentions. Within a space of five minutes, they were on their feet applauding, as I'd morphed into a bitter old lady, ranting about her beloved teapots being broken. Once they'd calmed down and settled back into their seats, and I morphed back into me, I explained that with creative writing you have to put yourself in another person's shoes. You have to imagine yourself as that charcater in order to write a realistic account of their behvaiour, dialogue, mannerisms - then hopefully you can capture their essences upon paper. Fingers crossed, that next week's assessment goes O.K. for them, and I'm pretty sure that the name Joan will be shouted down a corridor or two next week as I pass by.
I also surprised some of the year 11s, by creating little poetry ditties for their memory books. I don't write one for every child, just the ones that have been taken under wing, shall we say. It has been a pleasure to watch them share and enjoy the humour of words captured in a few short lines.
The school newsletter carried the story of the Polesworth Poetry Trail this week, too. I'd mentioned my poem to several people and low and behold was asked for a copy of 'Jutt' so it could appear next to the article. Again, just a small piece but it conveys to the pupils that anyone can be creative using words. I didn't realise just how much I've completed at school this week.
And finally, I thought I'd share with you the basics of my writing - where I write. In the corner of the dining room, is where my old wooden writing bureau, the kind with the flip down front, proudly resides. I searched for ages for the right desk, one which looked decorative when closed, but fully functional and most importantly, had the right feel to it. My desk, when open, has lots of tiny wooden drawers, cubby holes and nick knack slots - so that everything I could possible need is at hand. I have a row of paper weights, collected but never used which sit before me as I write. One top of the writing bureau, sits my grandfather's clock - which never strikes the right time, it is always two stricks out, so at ten o'clock it will sound twelve strikes. My hubby keeps offering to get it mended, but I don't want it touched, it reminds me of my grandfather - always slightly out of kilt with everyone else. Next to the crazy clock, I have a happy buddah, who sits next to a small glass containing coloured wax in black and white, mimicking a glass of Guinness. The Gunniess candle came from the Guinness Storehouse in Dublin, where the Queeen has just visited (note: I drank the pint of Guinness whereas old Libby refused). On the other side of the crazy clock, sit three crystal eggs; a blue moonstone, a lapis lazuli and a rose quarzt - I use these to meditate with or simply play with whilst I'm thinking. My chair, which hubby/stepchildren are banned from sitting in, is a brown whicker chair, with a couple of old cushions. I bought it especially for writing, hence the reason no one is allowed to be seated - just me, oh and my beautiful cat, Czar. I also have a crystal hanging from the window, as I love to see the rainbows appear on the painted wall in the late afternoon.
Over the years I've found that it doesn't matter how much I plan to write, create time for writing I can somethings miss the slots and avoid doing the job. So, on days when I'm tired, don't feel like thinking, I go through the motions of sitting at my desk, fingers on the laptop's keyboard because the 'magic' always happens once I'm seated ready for business.
Wow, I sat down thinking I hadn't much to write about this week, but hey the words have just flowed. Enjoy your week - I have two writers' meeting this week so need to hone a few pieces to read aloud.
Wednesday, 18 May 2011
Mid week extra - review - New Polesworth Poets
On Tuesday night, The Fizz 7 at Polesworth Abbey refectory delivered, as promised, a night filled with original work from very talented, local poets. The evening was dedicated to the debut reading of poems selected for phase two of The Polesworth Poetry Trail of Polesworth, Warwickshire.
The evening began with Richard Meredith reading a poem written by Theo Osborn, his nine year old grandson titled ‘The magic and beauty of Malvern’ which was beautifully scripted and befitting of nature.
The New Polesworth Poets, who consist of 16 poets, performed their work in the order which they may appear on the trail, creating a vocal trail for the gathered audience. Within the audience were local historians, park rangers from Pooley Country Park
Brick Making Remembered by Peter Grey. Peter’s poem remembers the Polesworth Brickworks that was on the site of Ensor Drive and Kiln Way.
Pooley Hall by Gary Londgen. Gary’s poem reflects on the history of Pooley Hall and its association with the Cockayne Family with hints at a more recent resident Edwin Starr.
Unrippled by Sarah James. Sarah’s poem takes the theme of the canal and the swans and builds a link between the Abbey, the original poets and Pooley Pit.
Advice to a Geordie Lad at Pooley by Barry Patterson. Barry’s poem takes the theme of the migration of Miners from the North East of England in the 1950’s and 60’s to the Warwickshire coalfields.
Living Echoes by Gina Coates. Gina’s poem reflects on the roles of women, some once miners and then later as wives and mothers, describing their hardship and fears.
Pooley Miner’s Tale by Barry Hunt. Barry is a songwriter and musician whose father once worked in Pooley pit, his poem takes the form of a folk song incorporating the lives of the miners and their families along with the regeneration of the natural environment. As Barry was unable to attend the evening, Peter Grey delivered the song in a befitting manner.
Women’s memories of Mining Menfolk by Dea Costelloe. Dea spent some time talking to the wives and daughters of the ex-miners for inspiration, from which she created her chatty monologue poem that is rich with memories of ordinary lives.
Pooley Pit Ponies by Margaret Torr. Margaret compares the lives of the Pooley pit ponies with that of the wild ponies of the Carmargue, who are seen as a “Gift of God”. It shows a really different outlook from the ponies’ point of view.
In their footsteps by Marjorie Neilson. Marjorie’s poem explores the generations of miners that followed each other into the pit, also reflecting on the feelings of their mothers.
Jutt by little old me. The poem is also about the pit ponies, one in particular who was down in Pooley pit and would only pull six loaded wagons.
A Cry by Janet Smith. Janet’s poem is a conversation between the poet and a female owl and reflects the majestic freedom of the owl.
Them up there don’t know us down here exist by Gary Carr. Gary
Aloft by Janis Kind. Janis’ poem takes the view point of a buzzard circling Pooley mound and reflects on its view of the motorway.
Black Swan Possibility. Jacqui’s sonnet harks back to Drayton’s poem that is on the first part of the trail, and that in Drayton’s day it was thought that Swan’s could only be white and that a black swan was a myth, and begs the question that swans could be a myriad of colours. As Jacqui was unable to attend the evening, the poem was delivered by Margaret Torr.
Ladies of the woods by Terri Jolland. Terri’s poem takes the silver birch trees as its theme and how they have recolonised the Pooley site. The trees take on a mystical presence as they perform this miracle of regeneration, often held in myths as protectors against witchcraft and at the same time used to make witches brooms.
Dreams of Alvecote by Colin Henchley. Colin’s poem talks of the delight and legend of Alvecote priory as place where dreams are born and enacted in this tranquil enchanting ruin.
Kite – a collaborative poem by Malcolm Dewhirst and the year 3 children at Birchwood Primary School 2011. Malcolm was commissioned to work with the children, exploring what it would be like to be a kite, then helping the children to make their own poetry kites. The children gave Malcolm most the words to use in this poem, which explores the idea of the wise wind being the teacher and the kite being the pupil learning to fly.
Mal Dewhirst thanked everyone involved with the Polesworth Poetry Trail project, bringing the first session to a close. After a brief interval, the open mic session provided a suitable contrast enabling a host of poets to perform their work.
Andy Biddulph performed two pieces; the first a humorous account of lightening - the second called ‘On the lump’.
Terri Jolland performed her poem ‘Canal Child’ which captured the colourful imagery of life associated with the waterways.
Gary Carr read three short pieces, ‘The Other Night’, ‘Caught in Motion’ and ‘Window lickers’, which depicted the world of the poet behind glass or an invisible boundary eager to capture the passing detail.
Sarah James, from Droitwich, who performed two stunning pieces; ‘The trapped bird’ and ‘Instrumental’ each detailed the precise movement of emotion, motion and a child, her son.
Gina Coates’ poem ‘War of the roses’ retold the history of Cockayne and Burdett’s fatal duel in fields near Bramcote.
Tony Owen’s poem ‘To the East’ evoked strong emotions in relation to women of war. His second poem, ‘My father’s blue eyes’ recalled touching childhood memories of a coal mining father.
Alec Simpson’s read a short extract from his autobiography ‘A Boy at War’ recalling a tale of being lost in the fog - a warm account of his upbringing in Arbroath , Scotland
Gary Longden’s ‘Royal Wedding’ provided a humorous slant on royal reporting. His poem ‘To whom it may concern’ was a fitting tribute to a typewriter factory which recently closed after 134 years of production.
Margaret Torr was assisted by Dea Costelloe, to deliver her poem ‘Lamant’ which depicted the tale of a mother raising a boy to becomes a miner, followed by the darker voice of the mine who takes the miner into her eternal womb.
Janet Smith recited her poem’s ‘Withen’s Walk Music’, ‘In the Priest House’ and ‘Washing off a Seam’ each beautifully tailored for performance, depicting her talents for capturing the smallest of details.
Dea Costelloe recalled a bygone age along ‘Miner’s Walk’, describing their walk to work amidst Pooley Park
Peter Grey delivered the harsh realities of ‘A Brick maker’s Lot’ relaying the working conditions, the unknown dangers and back breaking work in each shift.
Ian Ward delighted the audience with his short poem dedicated to home ‘My York’, then ignited the atmosphere with ‘Delta Devil Blues’ a favorite piece for several of the poets.
Hench gave a dramatic finale to the evening with his poem ‘The reflection strata – the little veins of Pooley park’ consisting of four poems, four styles and four stanzas, representing four strata layers beneath Pooley Park
All in all, a fabulous evening crammed with the very best poetry, all home grown and honed within the Midlands area. The next Poetry Fizz 8 is on Tuesday, 19th July, at Polesworth Abbey refectory and will feature Matt Merritt – doors open at 7ish with a prompt start at 7.30pm – everyone is welcome! For further details: Mal Dewhirst’s blog, http://pollysworda.wordpress.com/
Friday, 20th May - Spoken Worlds at The Old Cottage Tavern, Byrkley Street, Burton-on-Trent
This was just an extra post that I thought I'd post mid week as a cheeky treat. See you Saturday. Enjoy!
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