English Language - Frances Browne Literary Festival

The Annual Frances Browne Lecture: presented by Dr. Shirley Anne Godfrey

Panel Discussion: Surviving as a Writer in the Worlds of Publishing & Self-Publishing 1

What does it really take to survive as a writer today? From the challenges of finding a publisher, to the growing world of self-publishing, three experienced authors share their insights into the rewards, risks, and realities of the writing life. Join Helen Nicholl, Angeline King, and Alan Millar in conversation about their journeys as novelists, poets, and storytellers — each with a unique path through the publishing world. The discussion will be chaired by Dubhán Ó Longáin, poet, writer, and chairperson of the Irish Language Writers’ Association. This is a free event and a great opportunity for anyone curious about the inner workings of publishing, or for writers seeking encouragement and practical advice.

Creative Writing Masterclass with Dubhán Ó Longáin & Alan Millar

Whatever your experience, medium, or language, this masterclass is for you. Poet Dubhán Ó Longáin and journalist & writer Alan Millar join forces to spark creativity, build confidence, and explore new ways of writing. This special four-hour workshop welcomes writers of all levels. Through a mix of prompts, exercises, and discussion, you’ll discover new approaches to poetry, prose, and storytelling, while drawing inspiration from Ireland’s rich linguistic traditions — English, Irish, and Ulster-Scots. Lunch is included, and participants will leave with fresh ideas, new work, and renewed creative energy.

In Conversation: Michael Harding and Dubhán Ó Longáin

Wile away the evening with Michael Harding as he and local writer Dubhán Ó Longáin discuss Michael’s distinguished career, as well as his personal reflections on life, creative works, and the importance of the Irish language in both their lives. Caith an oíche le Michael Harding agus é ag comhrá leis an scríbhneoir áitiúil Dubhán Ó Longáin. Beidh saothar gradamach, aitheanta Michael faoi chaibidil, chomh maith lena dhearcadh ar an tsaol, a dhearcadh ar a shaothar, agus ar thábhacht na Gaeilge sa tsaol s’acu.

Lives from Letters

How do scholars locate unpublished letters? How can we date an undated letter, or identify unfamiliar correspondents? And what business do we have even looking at the private letters of long-forgotten individuals? This practical workshop will introduce participants to the fascinating world of working with nineteenth-century letters. We will discuss the challenges of discovering, transcribing, editing, and annotating letters, as well as the overt and subtle messages suggested by a letter’s wording, margins, and method of delivery. The session will also consider the literary historian’s responsibility to the written past. Perfect for anyone with an interest in history, historical biography, historical fiction, or literary exploration.