Review: New Alexandra Theatre, Birdsong

As the chaplain delivers his final sermon, men of all ranks and stations take their positions: line-abreast; to ladders, to death...

I first saw the stage adaptation of Sebastian Faulks' novel Birdsong in 2013. Five years ago: before I had studied much about the First World War, or war literature; before the 100 years centenary had begun, with all its acts of remembrance. Seeing Birdsong again in 2018 offered not only a chance to see how the production had evolved, but how my perception of it had altered with all that I had learned and experienced over the past years - these poignant years of memorial. Here's my thoughts.

Pen to Paper

A poetry course providing inspiration, writing activities, tips and tricks to get you putting pen to paper! 

Another non-regular post from me, but I just wanted to share the story and success of my recent poetry writing course, 'Pen to Paper'!

'Pen to Paper' was originally commissioned by the Anchor Gallery in Birmingham, as a part of their Spring 2018 season of poetry events. Held in the gallery space, a small but hard-working group met for three 2-hour sessions across March, April and May. Each session included two mini-activities, a main poetry activity, and a guest activity run by a special guest poet. One-to-one sessions with myself and the guest poet were offered at the end, where discussions ranged from editorial advice, to guidance on performing and publishing work.

      

Working The Blanks: First Poem In Progress

2018 is well underway, as is the research and writing I am doing as poet-in-residence at the Pen Museum.

The research I carried out during the first few months of my residency has provided me with a rich bank of ideas, which I am now delving into as I begin to craft the poems. The areas I want to explore are broad, ranging from the factory and its products, to the museum and its visitors; I want to reflect both intangible things, such as experiences and memories, and real objects, like the pen nibs themselves. I want to tell as much of the Museum's story as possible, by engaging with everything from the people and the period, to the place and, of course, the pens.

Working The Blanks: Week One

As the first week of my poetry residency comes to an end, I'd just like to write a brief summary of the goals I've set myself, the things I've learnt, and the hopes I have for future weeks. I was made to feel  welcome straight away, and I'm really happy with the start that I've made.

Working The Blanks: Introduction

'Working The Blanks'

Becoming Poet-in-Residence at the Pen Museum