At the weekend, I had the pleasure of taking part in a discussion under the heading of ‘So you’d like to write a book.’

This took place in Chapter One bookshop, which is situated in Narberth Museum and was part of their ‘celebrations’ for Independent Bookshop Day.

There were four of us on the panel – writers who had produced a variety of books, with a mix of writing styles and paths to publication, ably led by Philippa Davies. Pippa is a wonderful facilitator, whom I was lucky enough to have interviewing me at my launch for ‘things found on the mountain’, as well as in events at Llangwm Festival.

The topic was an interesting one. There was so much that could be said (beginning, perhaps, with ‘why?’!), but the intention on this occasion was to provide members of the audience with pointers on their book-writing journeys from start to completion, in a relaxed and entertaining fashion. I think, I hope, we succeeded in this. 

We each had to choose a ‘top tip’ for prospective writers. I found it hard to think of just one, but in the end, I opted for ‘Find your voice!’ – more specifically, ‘find the voice that is right for you, your main character(s) and your book.’ The right ‘voice’ has always been a significant part of my writing process. I might have written hundreds or thousands of words around a story (depending on whether it’s a short-story or a novel), but until I find the right voice for telling it, I can’t really begin. Sometimes this involves experimentation – I might try different points of view, different tenses etc. But, at other times, I simply have to think about the story, until the best way forward comes to me. 

‘things found on the mountain’ is a particularly good example of this. Using the ‘things’ found on the Black Mountains, such as stone, water, air, as the fixed point for each section, gave me a unique way of telling the story, while seeming perfect for exploring Beth’s relationship with her landscape.

I also like to think that each of my published works (and my short stories) has an individual voice, while possessing common traits within them, which mark them as ‘mine.’

Workshops are presented with the intention of giving those who attend some insight into writing. However, as you, in preparation, need to give thought to your own work, they can also serve the purpose of helping to formulate your own method of creativity – which is always useful.

Thank you, Chapter One bookshop, for arranging and hosting this and to Pippa for her hard work in organizing it. I was very glad to be able to participate in Bookshop Day in some capacity, as I love bookshops so much (well, I imagine all writers do!) and am so grateful to them for stocking my books.

And thank you to the audience.