I’ve been spending my October in a truly delightful place – Gladstone’s Library in Hawarden, North Wales. ‘Gladstone’ as in William Ewart Gladstone, four times Prime Minister, resident of Hawarden and an avid gatherer of books. The library houses his own collection, plus many books collected in his particular areas of interest: theology, history and literature. The library runs a Writer in Residence scheme throughout the year, and anyone can apply if they’ve had a book published in the last three years, of any genre. It comes highly recommended.

I’ve been here since October 1st, with the exception of a couple of days off to go to a wedding, and have been trying to write every day, even if it’s not for long.

I’ve also done a reading and Q&A event and will be running a masterclass on writing place, eco-poetry and the future next weekend on October 27th. I’ve also written a couple of blog pieces for the library about my stay, which you might like to read:

Firstly, on writing about the environment, climate and politics and whether any of it makes a difference:

https://www.gladstoneslibrary.org/news/volume/my-bleeding-art-by-suzannah-evans

And secondly, on self-care for writers (something that becomes important when you’re spending every day at the poetry coalface):

https://www.gladstoneslibrary.org/news/volume/self-care-for-writers-by-suzannah-evans