Creative Writing Conference

About the conference

The University of Edinburgh Creative Writing Conference 2022 highlighted a range of publishing opportunities and support available to emerging writers.

The conference consisted of two panel discussions, one-to-one meetings, networking time and author readings.

Programme

12:30pm to 1pm: Welcome refreshments

Have a tea or coffee, meet some people you know, get introduced to people you don't know.

1pm to 2pm: Path To Publication Panel

Agents and publishers will discuss what they're looking for when they meet new writers and how best to approach and query. We'll also discuss concerns regarding issues such as rights and contracts.

Panelists: Jenny Brown (Jenny Brown Associates), Caro Clarke (Portobello Literary),  Emily MacDonald (42 Management) and Rob Mackenzie (Blue Diode Press).

2pm: Break and refreshments

Have a chat, sip a cup of tea, buy a book or go and get some fresh air.

2:15pm to 3:15pm: One-to-One Feedback

Selected writers will have short feedback sessions with panel members.

3:30pm to 4:30pm: Grants and Support for Emerging Writers

Scotland is home to many supportive literary organisations and is full of opportunities for emerging writers. We'll be talking about some of these with literary experts who will help you learn what's out there and the skills you might need to embark on a career in literature.

We'll be discussing grants, project funding, commissions and freelance jobs with plenty of time for your own questions.

Panelists: Alice Tarbuck (Creative Scotland), Heather Parry (Society of Authors) and Andrew Blair (Scottish Book Trust).

5pm to 6pm: Break and refreshments

Take a break, hang out, browse the book table, chat to panelists and each other, go grab a bit to eat, meditate or spin around till you're dizzy. Whatever you do, make sure to be back by in time for our author readings.

6pm to 9pm: Author Readings

To close our event we'll have readings from Nick Holdstock, the winners of the University of Edinburgh Writing Prizes and authors from 'From Arthur's Seat'.

How to join

Events were free, and everyone was welcome.

Are you interested in a PhD in English Literature?

We offer two PhDs: one in English Literature; and one in Creative Writing. Working with colleagues in LLC and across the wider University, we are able to support research which crosses boundaries between disciplines and/or languages.

Find out more about PhDs in English Literature at Edinburgh