Meridian: Journey of a Debut Novel with Priscilla Morris

Course Summary

A fun, stimulating one-day workshop which will explore the different stages of the journey of a novel. The focus will be on the well-being of the author and how to deal with the highs and lows of the ride, especially post-publication. Priscilla will share her experience of her 13-year journey to complete her Women’s Prize shortlisted debut novel Black Butterflies and then discuss the year following its launch from initial low visibility and so-so sales to the surprise of multiple award nominations. She’ll offer support and advice and participants will engage in discussion designed to foster a sense of writerly community.

Course Outline

We’ll discuss some, or all, of the following:                                                         

Pre-Publication   

• Finishing the Novel: Overcoming Blocks and Resistance   

Post-Publication  

• Initial Low Visibility and So-So Sales  
• Pitching Articles, Social Media, Getting Your Novel Noticed 
• Award Nominations 
• Media, Events, Festivals  
• Staying Grounded & Enjoying it All 

We’ll also discuss brief extracts from Beautiful World, Where Are You by Sally Rooney and Yellowface by R.F. Kuang.  There’s no need to read these novels beforehand, but you might find it illuminating to do so!                                                                    

This course does not focus on the craft of fiction but on the completion and promotion of a book and the mental, emotional and physical well-being of the writer. 

Course Outcomes

• A better understanding of the journey of a novel, especially post-publication.  
• Strategies for looking after writerly well-being: overcoming blocks, dealing with pressure and isolation, staying positive and enjoying it all. 
• Potential new networks and support groups with likeminded professional writers.  

Priscilla Morris is an author from London who lives in County Monaghan. Her debut novel Black Butterflies takes us into the siege of Sarajevo through the eyes of artist and teacher, Zora Kočović. It was shortlisted in 2023 for the Women’s Prize for Fiction, the RSL Ondaatje Prize, the Authors’ Club Best First Novel Award and the Wilbur Smith Adventure Writing Prize. Priscilla teaches creative writing at University College Dublin. Find out more at priscillamorris.org. 

This course is part of the Irish Writers Centre’s Meridian series of creative and professional development activities for professional writers, and also for those emerging writers who are ready to take the steps towards making a career in writing. Read more about this initiative here.