Bealtaine Festival: Creative Writing for Beginners with Mary O’Donnell

Course Summary

Some beginning writers are filled with a rush of excitement and possibility when they think about literary art, about telling a good story, and about the act and art of self-expression. Others are a little overwhelmed at the prospect, despite having brilliant ideas and phrases in their heads, in the notebook, or on the laptop.

Course Outline

During this 4-week course, a working dynamic for each writer in the group will be established to instil a few effective working habits that enthuse rather than inhibit; and to provide a framework to ensure you complete two new short stories during our time together. Work is read by Mary O’Donnell at home, and commented on individually. There will also be supportive and analytical group response during our sessions. Within the group, you will discuss craft, technique, have a look at different styles of writing, and try to discover what works for you as a writer.

Course Outcomes

You’ll be inspired and learn the craft!

Mary O’Donnell is an award-winning and best-selling novelist and poet, a journalist, broadcaster and teacher. She has written and published four novels, including The Elysium Testament and Where They Lie, seven collections of poetry, two volumes of short stories and radio broadcasts and won several awards for her writing in both fiction and poetry. The recently published work Giving Shape to the Moment: the Art of Mary O’Donnell, Poet, Novelist & Short-story Writer,  edited by María Elena Jaime de Pablos includes a selection of essays responding to her writing in each genre and offers a powerful overview of her contribution to Irish letters.

Please note this course is open to people aged 50 and above.