Write now with Brian Leyden

The aim of good writing is to be understood: to be clear, economical, and compelling. This workshop will take participants through the essentials of writing with purpose, vigour and clarity. We will consider the techniques used to establish a sense of place, time, and setting up a story. We will question what hooks, enchants and carries the reader forward in what you write, the way you write and the importance of knowing what approach works best for you. This day-long workshop is suitable for anyone interested in developing their own work and who wishes to learn more about writing craft. It can accommodate beginners, is ideal for those in the middle of a writing project, and it works as a refresher for more experienced writers.

Brian Leyden’s workshop will take participants through the essentials of writing with purpose, vigour and clarity. We will consider the techniques used to establish a sense of place, time, and setting up a story. We will question what hooks, enchants and carries the reader forward in what you write and the way you write. We will look at inner and outer story, the difference between consequence and significance and the importance of knowing which type of writer you are and what approach works best for you. Brian Leyden will offer structured guidance using prepared content and also invite questions and discussion. Participants should bring samples of their work that they may be invited to share with the group. The workshop will include a prompt to allow participants try out the techniques discussed and to explore the outcomes collectively. Participants should come prepared with their laptops, electronic pads or pen and paper according to their preferred way of writing.

BRIAN LEYDEN is a novelist, short story writer, memoirist, screenwriter, playwright, literary editor and publisher with the imprint Lepus Print. His books include Sweet Old World: New & Selected Stories, Summer of ’63 and The Home Place. He was longlisted for the international ‘Nature Chronicles Essay Competition 2024’. In June 2025 he presented ‘Going North’ at the Seamus Heaney Centre, Queen’s University, Belfast as part of the ‘North at 50’ celebrations. His most recent novel is Love These Days.