I am in the middle of what is proving to be a very positive day. I am feeling extremely buoyed up and excited about everything that’s going on. February and March’s books are coming along nicely and the ones we’ve just pubilshed are heading out into the world looking fantastic.
And on top of that, I’ve had some lovely post recently. This morning, for example, I was delighted to receive a copy of Annie Clarkson’s handsome chapbook, Winter Hands – thanks, Annie! With wonderful endorsements from Paul Farley and Geraldine Green, this looks a really interesting collection that I’m looking forward to getting properly stuck into. Annie is launching her book at the Lancaster Literature Festival in November, reading alongside Ian Duhig and Graham Mort, no less! Break a leg, Annie and many congratulations!
Speaking of Lancaster Lit Fest — if you fancy taking in some culture over the 14 – 18th November, also appearing as part of a star-studded cast are Salt authors Carys Davies, Chrissie Gittins and Mike Barlow. If only I could get out more, I’d be there!
I was really pleased to receive a copy of the first issue of Short Fiction, a new annual journal published by the University of Plymouth. Wonderfully produced and beautifully designed, there is enough in it to keep anyone going for ages, including work by both established and new writers. I’ve also just got a copy of Wet Ink, based in Adelaide, Australia. I smelt it before I’d opened it — guess what it smelt of? Wet ink! Another handsome publication, this issue with a poem by Salt author Jill Jones and a review of Tom Shapcott’s marvellous The City of Empty Rooms.
As well as having a lovely time reading my post, I’ve also been interviewed today by Daneet Steffans, Editor of the prestigious Mslexia. Goodness knows how that went. I know I enjoyed myself, but Daneet was recording it and I feel sorry for her having to re-listen to all my ramblings! It was good though – I realised while talking to her just how lucky I am doing what I’m doing, and all the reasons why I do it and how much I LOVE it!
Have a great day, everyone!
