Publicity Profile

What it means to take part in an Almasi League creative writing workshop

1. How did you get interested in reading books?

I have been an avid reader from a young age. Reading is a way for me to relax, it is nourishing to escape into a good read and a form of escapism from everyday life. Reading various authors also inspires my creativity and gives me ideas for my own writing.

2. How long have you lived in Stratford? What local book events, libraries etc. do you use?

I have lived in Stratford over ten years. I use and am a member of Stratford Library and also use Forest Gate Library. I have recently attended the creative writing workshop run by Almasi League. I also attend book events for children held in local libraries and places such as the Discover centre in Stratford and in the past I have attended writing workshops held at theatre royal and Stratford circus.

3. When did you start taking writing seriously and why?

I have written poetry from a young age and as time has passed done a lot of journal writing. I feel that writing is cathartic and healing and storytelling is something that most people can relate to.

4. What did you want to get out of our Creative Writing Workshops?

Practical tips on how to write short stories, novels, develop character and story lines. Ways to sustain a writing practice/discipline and meet with like minded people who can offer constructive feedback on my work. The workshop that I attended run by Courttia Newland was very well organised and a lot of useful material was packed into a short space of time. I think if the workshops were run over six or twelve weeks and the aim was for attendees to produce a piece of work towards the end of the workshop it would enable me to make that commitment to continue to write and absorb the information provided by the tutor. Interacting with other attendees who encourage and support each other’s writing is also of great benefit. I would be great to have one off Q & A sessions with authors and writers of various genres.

Patricia Donkor