a unique writing community
I just returned from a couple of days at Swanwick, aka The Writers’ Summer School in Derbyshire, UK. This was my fifth (non-consecutive) year there, but this time was special as I could only go if I took my one-year-old with me (long story). I did not know whether this was a good idea or not but, encouraged by friends and having gotten special permission, I took the plunge and brought him along for two days (instead of the full week which I normally attend).
This time, instead of running between the different events – as in the past I’ve taken some classes and have taught some workshops – I found myself chasing a toddler around. And believe you me, he runs fast.
So I was touched and immensely grateful to discover that this wonderful community of writers was not only patient and kind with the unexpected intruder but also generous and helpful like only writers can be.
He was chased around, entertained, taught Scottish nursery rhymes and ‘high-fives’, amused by a funky children’s writer and sung to by folk guitarists. He was pushed around in his stroller by the wonderful Fiona McFadzean while I took some classes and he came along to the retro disco dressed as Danny Zuko from ‘Grease’ (incidently, two friends and I were dressed as The Pink Ladies). In short, he had the time of his life. As for me, I was impressed once more by what nice people writers are.
Sure, I did get one or two dirty looks for having brought a child along, but of course, not everyone likes children. You can say the same about engineers and about lawyers, about hairdressers and about nurses, about doctors and about car mechanics. But – I maintain – there is something unique about this community of writers (some beginners, others multi-published) who get together once a year in a small village in deepest, darkest Derbyshire with the objective of honing their craft and meeting other like-minded people.
So if you ever thought of trying out a writing holiday, don’t hesitate to try theSwanwick Writers’ Summer School next year. But do leave your children at home, so you can fully enjoy your experience…