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Embrace the Magic: Creative Writing Ideas for St. Patrick’s Day

As the lush green landscape of Ireland comes alive with festivities on St. Patrick’s Day, let’s channel that spirit into our creative endeavours. Here are some ideas to infuse your writing with the luck of the Irish:

  1. Leprechaun’s Secret Diary: Imagine stumbling upon a dusty old journal hidden beneath a moss-covered rock. Inside, you discover the musings and adventures of a mischievous leprechaun. Write entries detailing his encounters with humans, his tricks and treasures, and his reflections on the world beyond the rainbow.
  2. Irish Folklore Retelling: Dive into the rich tapestry of Irish mythology and folklore. Choose a classic tale like the legend of Cú Chulainn or the Children of Lir, and put your own spin on it. Reimagine the characters, settings, and plot twists to breathe new life into these timeless stories.
  3. Magical Pot of Writing Prompts: Picture a shimmering pot of gold at the end of a rainbow, but instead of coins, it’s filled with writing prompts! Each prompt is more enchanting than the last, leading you on a journey through fantastical realms, mythical creatures, and heartwarming tales of friendship and love.
  4. Irish-Inspired Poetry: Let the rhythm of Celtic music and the beauty of Ireland’s landscapes inspire your poetry. Write odes to rolling green hills, lyrical ballads about ancient castles, or haikus capturing the fleeting beauty of a rainbow stretching across the sky.
  5. Modern-Day Banshee Encounter: Transport your readers to contemporary Ireland, where ancient legends collide with modern-day life. Imagine a protagonist who encounters a banshee on the streets of Dublin, leading to a thrilling adventure that blurs the lines between myth and reality.
  6. Irish Flavors in Fiction: Explore the sensory delights of Irish cuisine in your writing. Describe the aroma of freshly baked soda bread, the warmth of a hearty bowl of Irish stew, or the tangy sweetness of a pint of Guinness. Use food as a way to evoke atmosphere and evoke memories for your characters.
  7. Lucky Charms and Superstitions: Delve into the world of Irish superstitions and lucky charms. Write a story about a character who believes in the power of four-leaf clovers, horseshoes, or lucky coins, and the adventures they have as they seek out these talismans for good fortune.
  8. Emerald Isle Travelogue: Take your readers on a virtual journey through Ireland’s most iconic landmarks and hidden gems. Write a travelogue-style piece detailing your adventures exploring the Cliffs of Moher, wandering the streets of Galway, or uncovering the mysteries of ancient Celtic ruins.
  9. Irish Ghost Stories: Set the scene for spine-tingling tales of the supernatural set amidst the misty moors and crumbling castle ruins of Ireland. Write about haunted houses, restless spirits, and ancient curses that linger in the Irish countryside.
  10. St. Patrick’s Day Flash Fiction: Challenge yourself to write a short story set entirely on St. Patrick’s Day. Capture the energy and excitement of the celebrations, the camaraderie of friends and family, and the magic that seems to hang in the air on this special day.

So grab your shamrock pen and let your imagination run wild! May the luck of the Irish be with you as you embark on these creative writing adventures. Happy St. Patrick’s Day, and may your stories shine as bright as a pot of gold at the end of the rainbow! 🍀

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International Women’s Day

A guest post by Kelly Hatley

I love International Women’s Day – it reminds me to check in with friends who I may not have spoke with since last year’s International Women’s Day – and that’s okay. It’s great if you keep in touch with friends and loved ones as much as possible but if you haven’t for whatever reason, I think it’s okay to use a sappy holiday like valentines day or a hashtag trend or a somewhat cheesy gif to say ‘hi – I’m thinking of you and love that I know you and appreciate you in my life’.

We can’t do that when they are no longer there.

I have been trying to first fathom the unfathomable and comprehend the death of one of my students, Tricia Ramsay and also recognise and celebrate her life and loss publicly, to honour her and her family respectively. Creative Hats is a business, it’s small but growing and Tricia is a huge part of our success. Of course we want to shout to the world the loss and love we feel since the news of her sudden and unexpected death in January.

As a business owner I am very conscious that jumping on international women’s day hashtags can be met both beautifully but also cynically and that is the last thing I would want.

However it suddenly became clear to me that today was the day we had to share Tricia Ramsay – she was undoubtedly one of the strongest women I had the luxury to know. So, it is late in the day but I have made a short video tribute below and also share the words we added to a floral book tribute (made by another of our writer’s talented mum).

Tricia you are gone but never forgotten and never a truer word has been said.

Tricia,
We write this with heavy emptier hearts and struggle to comprehend a world without you. So, let’s instead just think of our world with you.

You entered our writing lives from North Herts College where you instantly made your mark and impressed the groups with your vast array of writing skills and collation of work.

You were definitely one of the most prolific writers in our group. Constantly beavering with ideas and churning out stories. Everyone was impressed. You wanted your books in the world more than most and worked twice as hard, as you tackled various barriers. Your life hadn’t been easy and you were gracious to share a lot of your past with us.

We are grateful and better having known you and the strength and determination you demonstrated. Your education hadn’t been easy as you worked through dyslexia and strived to help others by encouraging us to make work more accessible and support organisations that do the same.

Tricia you will continue to inspire and drive us to be better writers and individuals. It has been an honour to know and be part of your life. We hope to keep in touch with your family and hear more stories about your beautiful daughters.

Our group isn’t the same without you but it won’t be without you. You will definitely remain in our stories, workshops, books, thoughts.

Love and hugs,
Your Writing Elephants xxx

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Creative Writing on Burn’s Night

As the crisp winter air settles in and the aroma of haggis fills the kitchen, Burns Night becomes a celebration of poetry, culture, and the enduring spirit of Robert Burns. This year, why not add a touch of creativity to your festivities by incorporating unique writing activities that pay homage to the Bard himself? Here are some imaginative ideas to spark your creativity on this special night.

Burns-inspired Poetry Slam:
Host a poetry slam featuring works inspired by Robert Burns. Encourage participants to explore themes of love, nature, and Scottish heritage. The rhythmic cadence of Burns’ verses can serve as a muse for crafting contemporary poems that resonate with the essence of his timeless classics.

Character Creation Challenge:
Invite your guests to create fictional characters inspired by Burns’ poems. Whether it’s Tam o’ Shanter or the beloved mouse from “To a Mouse,” challenge participants to breathe new life into these characters through short stories or modern-day adaptations.

Interactive Storytelling:
Begin a collaborative storytelling session where each person adds a sentence or two to a developing narrative. Incorporate Burns Night elements like traditional Scottish settings, kilts, and, of course, the spirited presence of the haggis. This collaborative effort can result in a unique and entertaining tale.

Whisky-Inspired Writing Prompts:
Set the mood by indulging in a selection of fine whiskies and let the spirits of the night guide your creativity. Craft writing prompts based on the flavours, aromas, and experiences associated with different whiskies. Share your stories or poems with fellow enthusiasts as you sip and savour.

Burns Night Toasts and Limericks:
Challenge your guests to compose their own toasts or limericks in the style of Robert Burns. The wit and humour intrinsic to Burns’ work can serve as inspiration for crafting clever and entertaining verses that celebrate the joyous moments of the night.

This Burns Night, elevate your celebration by infusing it with the power of words and creativity. Whether you’re penning heartfelt verses, creating fictional characters, or toasting with lighthearted limericks, these creative writing ideas will undoubtedly add an extra layer of warmth and inspiration to your Burns Night festivities. So, gather your friends, raise a glass, and let the creative spirit of Robert Burns guide your pen as you embark on a literary journey in honour of Scotland’s cherished bard. Slàinte mhath!

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Unleash Your Creativity: Join Our Latest Writing Gym in the Heart of Letchworth Town Centre!

Welcome to a world of words and imagination at our new venue in Letchworth town centre! We are thrilled to announce the launch of our Writer’s Gym, writing classes and monthly pop-up shop, where literary enthusiasts and aspiring writers can come together to celebrate the magic of storytelling. Whether you’re a seasoned wordsmith or just starting your writing journey, our vibrant community is the perfect place to foster creativity and connect with fellow book lovers.

Discover the Venue: Nestled in the heart of Letchworth town centre and all thanks to Cllr David Levett and his Stepping Stones initiative, our new venue provides a professional and inspiring space for writers of all levels. The classroom is equipped with the latest technology to enhance your learning experience, ensuring that you get the most out of each writing class. With a self contained kitchen, and a warm ambiance, you’ll find the perfect environment to let your ideas flow and craft captivating stories.

Unleash Your Writing Potential: Our writer’s gym caters to a variety of genres and skill levels, led by our experienced instructor Kelly Hatley who is passionate about nurturing talent. From planning, creative writing and creative non-fiction, storytelling techniques, genre conventions and publishing advice, our classes are designed to unlock your full writing potential. Whether you’re interested in penning the next great novel, mastering the art of short stories, exploring poetry, scripts, or simply exercising that writer’s muscle regularly, then our classes are tailored just for you.

Monthly Pop-Up Shop: In addition to our writing classes, we are excited to bring you a monthly pop-up shop featuring a curated selection of books from diverse genres and local published authors – many from our courses. Immerse yourself in the world of literature as you browse through our collection, meet local writers learn about new courses and gather publishing advice designed to captivate readers and writers of all tastes. Whether you’re on the lookout for a new bestseller or a hidden gem, our pop-up shop is a literary hub waiting to be explored.

Join Our Vibrant Community: Our venue is more than just a space for classes and book sales; it’s a hub for literary enthusiasts to come together, share ideas, and build connections. Join our vibrant community of writers, readers, and creatives who are passionate about the written word. Networking events, author talks, and book club gatherings are just a few of the exciting activities we have planned to make our spaces a true haven for bibliophiles.

Don’t miss out on the opportunity to be part of something special. Whether you’re a seasoned writer or someone who simply enjoys getting lost in the pages of a good book, our new venue in Letchworth town centre will welcome you with open arms.

Get ready to unleash your creativity, connect with like-minded individuals, and immerse yourself in the world of words. Stay tuned for our class schedules, pop-up shop dates, and upcoming events by following us on social media and visiting our website.

Come be a part of the literary magic at our newest venue in Letchworth town centre – where stories come to life!

Coming in February 2024

Email kelly@creativehats.co.uk to express your interest and receive full details as they go live.

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Self doubt a guest post by best-selling author Nicola Warner

Have you ever told yourself… 

“I can’t write a book.”

“No one will read my rubbish.”

“I’m not good enough.” 

But … how do you know? Doubt is the devil that holds many of us back and it’s difficult to concentrate when it’s got a grip under your skin. You believe it. It’s a hard voice to ignore, but if you don’t try you will never know! If you want to write, do it! Yes, that voice will still be that nagging annoyance whispering it’s devil language, but the more you write, the more your confidence will grow, and that’s what it all boils down to; confidence. With it, that annoying voice will be easier to ignore. 

You have to remember, not everything you write will cater for all, and that’s OK… because for every one person that your writing doesn’t appeal to there will be one person that it does. Someone will read it.

There’s also those you can force it on, like friends, family, the dog. They will undoubtedly be the first you hand over your first page to (not the dog, obviously!) Fantastic Writers are very fortunate to have a strong support network. We strive to support each other, give each other feedback and encourage. Some days, words of encouragement is just the little boost you need. 

So grab your pen, laptop, tablet or whatever your weapon of choice is, and repeat the affirmation;

“I am good enough”

That is all you need to do. Writing is for yourself first and always … if others enjoy reading it, that’s a bonus. 

You can find Nicola’s latest book, The Ego Effect, on amazon.

[If you are interested in being one of our beta readers and providing honest reviews for some our new projects please email sales@creativehats.co.uk with your expression of interest.]

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Autumn Community Courses 2022

Next week brings the start of our new set of scheduled courses and we couldn’t be happier. Click the links to find out more then Email – kelly@creativehats.co.uk for a registration form and secure your place.

If you are new to Creative Hats and / or Writing then we recommend starting with:

Could I be a Writer Course begins Monday October 17th 12:00 to 14:00 for 6 weeks (term time only)

Venue – Baldock Community Centre, SG7 6DH

Cost £86

If you are an established writer and or have attended any of our previous courses try these:

Writer’s Gym begins Wednesday October 5th 18:45 to 20:45 for 10 weeks (term time only)

Venue – Howard Memorial Hall Letchworth, SG6 1NX

Cost – £125

Getting Publish Ready begins Thursday October 6th 18:45 to 20:45 for 12 weeks (term time only)

Venue – Howard Memorial Hall Letchworth, SG6 1NX

Cost – £195

Leaving a Legacy begins Friday October 14th 12:00 to 14:00 for 14 weeks (term time only)

Venue – Baldock Community Centre, SG7 6DH

Cost £244

Passive Income begins Monday October 17th 9:30 to 11.30 for 15 weeks (term time only)

Venue – Baldock Community Centre, SG7 6DH

Cost £275

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Our latest new venue!

We have new courses and a new venue in sunny Baldock! Just a short walk from the train station with easy access and free parking. Baldock Community Centre is the hub of this beautiful town and the perfect space for Creative Hatters to meet. Located directly opposite the Library, it means if you arrive early you can carry out work and use their computer facilities should you wish. There is also an abundance of excellent pubs, cafes and events. An ideal place to get creating!

Presently we will be holding our day time classes in both their large back hall and the intimate Burgess Lounge, both spaces have classroom facilities in addition to comfy sofas for quieter writing and reading reflection. They even sell second hand books for 50p!

We are still running our evening classes at Letchworth Memorial Hall, having established an excellent working relationship with the centre and will hold literary events at weekends over both locations.

We are still seeking a Stevenage venue – please do get in touch if you have an available space with suitable commuter links – kelly@creativehats.co.uk.

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We’ve met Martin Impey!

Guest Post by Tina Cooper

No, I’d not heard of him either but I should have as his books are on sale in the shop at work. I knew I’d seen them somewhere. 

You may have heard of Where The Poppies Now Grow written by Hilary Robinson and illustrated by… Can you guess?… That’s right, Martin. 

Martin kindly popped in for a chat during our course run by Creative Hats. I think he was under the impression that he’d pop in and then leave us to get some writing done but we were all a little excited. When Martin asked if he’d been talking for too long there was a unanimous “no,” from his audience. We didn’t get any work done that evening. 

Not only was* Martin rather lovely; he was also fascinating, in the best possible way. I was thrilled to see how much of himself and his family history is put into his illustrations. Much (all) of my writing contains our family history and Martin made that ok. Not just ok, he convinced me it’s great to document family histories in which ever way is fitting. 

I believe the book began as a chat with Hilary at a train station. The train was running late and, as they waited, an idea began to form when they realised they both had an interest in the first world war. Both had family connections to the war and as they swapped stories the seeds of Where The Poppies Now Grow were sown. 

See what I did there? Seeds. Poppies. Sorry. 

The book is infused with Martin’s family history which makes it all the more wonderful. 

Martin has illustrated other books too, one of which I wanted to get signed for my son in a desperate attempt to get him reading. 

Where We Once Stood is the story of the Apollo astronauts who walked on the moon. The book contains illustrations by the splendid Martin and I thought it might inspire my 15yr old. 

As Martin put pen to page I panicked, I realised that I wanted the book, my son wouldn’t read it. At least that’s what I told myself. 

“No, wait, sign it to me,” I almost shouted. 

Martin shared the ups and downs of the life of an illustrator and told us that we needed to be passionate about our projects. Writing needs to be the thing you can’t stop yourself doing rather than a plan to get rich quick. Martin can’t stop himself, drawing is his happy place. We couldn’t see the wide smile behind the covid mask but we could feel it. 

We asked for advice. 

“Put your heart into whatever you do.” 

I’m sure you’ll agree that is sound advice for any endeavour. 

*I’m sure he is still and always will be lovely.

You can find Martin on Instagram, twitter, facebook, and youtube.

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Open Mic Night

Open mic: My first experience by Paul Clark

When I heard about this local event in the Rugby theatre bar on a Sunday evening I thought, “What a great way to make a few local contacts and perform my poems”. As much as I enjoy reading poetry, live poetry seems to add that extra level of interest, watching reactions; sad, happy, funny etc.

What really surprised me was the lack of audience; it had been advertised for weeks!
So, for a few hours the seven people present, performed their pieces. A few people sung folk songs, while others read poems and prose which they hoped would bring comfort and amusement to their audience.

There were a number of pieces read by the authors present including a self penned piece about William Webb Ellis who “invented” Rugby then went on to become a vicar. Another entertaining piece was the vocal accompaniment to a puppet show, so funny even though sadly the puppets had been unable to attend.

We all took our turn and I read a number of my pieces which prompted a positive reaction.

I’m looking forward to the next one, not sure when it is…

The three takeaways would be:

  1. If you are going to rely on memory make sure you practise. One of the guys didn’t and thankfully the quality of the piece shone through in spite of the long pauses.
  2. Have several pieces earmarked and prepared so that while you listen to others you can gage how to contrast the mood for effect and match or compliment previous readings.
  3. Take a notebook, as there are some great ideas and stories which could inspire new work for yourself.
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Introduction to Writing Audio Dramas

In recent years audio dramas have had a massive resurgence with the boom in podcasting. However, writing for audio as a skill is largely untaught. This course teaches you how to take full advantage of sound effects and atmosphere to tell your story. It breaks down the different methods of writing for audio, and champions a creative manifesto designed to push the medium. Often audio dramas are treated as plays without visuals or are handled as narrated short stories. This course will break down all the unique to audio methods of storytelling and the extra consideration it requires. Drawing on a wealth of practical experience and the current leading scholarship.

Email sales@creativehats.co.uk to express your interest and receive more information.