The Writing Residency

When I found out I had been chosen for a writing residency at the prestigious Tyrone Guthrie Centre, I squealed with delight. Located at Annaghmakerrig, in County Monaghan, Ireland, the Centre offers residential workspace to artists across all art forms.

My week was spent among a community of supportive poets, composers, painters, printers, screen writers, playwrights and other authors. The one commitment we all make is to eat dinner together at 7pm. This is a great opportunity to talk to others about their work, their inspiration and issues they face..

With all meals provided (and the food was absolutely delicious!), I quickly found a routine that worked well: 0730 swim in the lake, shower, breakfast, three hours's work, 1300 lunch, three hours' work, 5km walk, read, dinner at 7pm.

I was told it was a place where 'magic' happens, and to be honest I couldn't see how. But, I can report back that it is a uniquely nurturing and creative environemnt - where the words simply poured out of me day after day for an entire week.

I completed all the tasks I set myself - to complete a decent draft of the first half of my new novel, which happens to be set in Ireland. And then, as the juices were flowing, I did more! Inspired by the work of a truly wonderful artist, Dearbhail Connon, I wrote a poem (my very first) reflecting on one of the oil paintings she completed that week.