The Scrivener Series

On Monday, we had our last Scrivener Session where were treated to a talk and reading by poet and fiction writer Annabel Banks. A great way to end the first terms of the 15/16 year.

Annabel discussed getting published, as well a reading some of her own recently published fiction. Her direct, practical and passionate advice was refreshing and she made clear that the literary world is a wide and wondrous landscape.  Annabel though gave us a compass, a walking stick and a backpack full of cheese.

She advised that if you wish to be a writer and engage others with your work, you have to do two things. First, you need to say clearly who you are. You can do this through twitter, on your own website and to the people you accost on the train and in the street. Second, you need to ask for things: Can I do this? Can I have this opportunity? Will you accept this from me? Will you give me this? It may seem simple, but having the confidence to ask for things can often get you those things.

               

Annabel read two pieces of her short fiction, one which wonderfully tackled the prickly second-person narrative. With her supple prose, she showed breadth in address and style and after each reading, discussed how she placed the piece within the literary landscape.  

After the talk and reading, Annabel took questions from the audience and we then dashed off to the pub for a couple of well-deserved drinks and nibbles. Students gave glowing feedback and got further advice from Annabel in at the watering hole.

My thanks to the very wonderful Annabel! To find out more about her, visit http://www.annabelbanks.com/  

Please keep a look out for our upcoming Scrivener events in the New Year and a happy Christmas to you all.

Dr Craig Jordan-Baker