Some fool once said, 'everyone has a novel in them.' They were correct only in as much as that is where the novel invariably remains, in them! It is however true to say that everyone has some thoughts, feelings, observations, experiences, dreams and fantasies in them; and that is where we come in. In the writers' group you get the chance, among friendly and encouraging company, to give expression to your ideas. You might write that novel after all but if you only write a short story, a simple poem or a lovely sentence, you will certainly find the experience very rewarding. Portglenone Writers' Group was established in September 2013, but it is by no means a 'fledgling', for it was formed by the remaining members of the Ballymena Writers' Group which closed its doors after twenty inspiring years.
Meetings are held every two weeks, on Monday evenings, and involve the reading and discussion of members' work. This work covers a wide range of topics, styles and forms. Members are free to write anything they wish, but they are encouraged to reach outside their comfort zone and experiment with both prose and verse. Meetings also involve short writing exercises which are stimulated in a variety of ways including the use of the work of established writers.
Facilitators are regularly engaged to encourage both novice writers and the more experienced. These inspiring individuals include creative writing tutors, teachers, established and published authors, and invariably they bring the best out of the members.
Membership is open to anyone over the age of eighteen, an interest in writing is the only other qualification required.
The existing membership ranges through: complete novices; individuals who simply want to write for their own satisfaction; a variety of authors who have published poetry, novels, short stories, as well as historical and factual books.
Somewhere amongst this range of experiences there is a place for you, so if you have the desire to write come to Portglenone Writers' Group, you will be most welcome.
Phone or email Damien, or speak to any existing member.
Membership is open to anyone over the age of eighteen, an interest in writing is the only other qualification required.
he current cost is £20 per 'term'. (Two terms)
You need something to write on and something to write with!
We meet every two weeks, on Monday evenings, from 7.30pm to 9.30pm. Term 1: September to mid-December. Term 2: Mid-January to May.
At present we meet in the home of a member: 48 Townhill Road, Portglenone.
Membership is open to anyone over the age of eighteen, an interest in writing is the only other qualification required.
You will learn, through experience, how to write in a variety of styles and forms and how to develop your own writing.
You are very welcome to come along and watch, you will be expected to write on your first visit but you do not have to read to the group until you feel comfortable (which is invariably on the first visit).
Gender balance is fair with more females than males. There are always some younger adults but membership is dominated by those of middle-age and above.