Originally posted on Natalie Ann Holborow:
We talk a lot about our favourite opening lines in literature, but for me there’s something quite laudable about the delivery of a killer final line when it comes to poetry. As poets, we must seek to ensure that every word is necessary. Every word and punctuation mark must have earned its place. Unlike fiction, where the necessity is defined by the scene or dialogue’s role in advancing the plot, poetry has a more laser-like focus. We remember standout images and lines in poetry until they become recital. For example, think of your own… Continue reading Going Out With A Bang: My Top 10 Final Lines in Poetry

This year, as part of International Dylan Thomas Day, 14 May, I was able to realise a recent dream of mine – to create the world’s longest love poem. Not by my own hand, but by the combined pens of people around the world, as part of Love The Words, the literary competition element of Dylan Day. Thanks to writers from all around the world, we managed to beat the current record and create that poem, which you can view now on Discover Dylan Thomas.com, the website of Dylan’s grand-daughter, Hannah Ellis. Entitled The Love Club (after a phrase from … Continue reading The World’s Longest Love Poem

I teach the following 10 week courses at Cardiff University. They are currently open for enrolment, beginning Thursday 18th January. Each course is worth 10 credits at Level 4 (undergraduate level). Life Writing Draw on your own history and experience to tell the story of your life. Whether you want to engage readers, share your history with family and friends, or simply write for yourself, this module will give you the methods and means of composing compelling life writing, autobiography and memoir. https://www.cardiff.ac.uk/part-time-courses-for-adults/courses/view/life-writing   Reading and Writing Poetry This course adheres to the sound advice that if you want to … Continue reading Cardiff Uni courses – let 2018 be the year of the writer!