Writing Queer Love: “An Army of Lovers Cannot Lose”

Wed 7 February 2024

Tutor / Rachel Dawson

Course Fee / From £14 per person

Genres / FictionNon-FictionPoetry

Language / English

6.00 – 7.30 pm

In this cross-genre workshop, author Rachel Dawson will look at different techniques and ideas for writing love, thinking about areas such as dialogue and atmosphere of a scene as well as ways of writing about different forms of intimacy. The course will provide a safe and nurturing space for new and experienced writers alike who work across multiple forms.

Tutor

Rachel Dawson

Rachel Dawson is a lesbian, working-class Welsh writer. In 2020, she was awarded a bursary by Literature Wales, which enabled her to write her debut novel, Neon Roses (John Murray Press, 2023). Neon Roses was described by Sarah Waters as, “a big-hearted story about finding your feet and following your heart, set against a beautifully-realised backdrop of 1980s British life. Tender, sexy, uplifting and fun.” Rachel was born in Swansea and has done a variety of jobs, including selling sausage rolls and vibrators (not at the same time), and volunteering for an MP. She now works in the third sector and lives with her wife in Cardiff.

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Alison May

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Do it! As well as the focused period of writing, and excellent tuition, you will make a lot of contacts with other writers and these can be invaluable in exploring mutual opportunities for publication and readings. You will gather a lot of material for drawing on later. You will enjoy the wonderful Dwyfor valley, the coast and surrounding countryside. The accommodation is comfortable ... and the food very enjoyable! (Sorry, that’s longer than a sentence!)

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Tŷ Newydd is a wonderfully warm and welcoming place. It’s a space that allows you to connect with your writing and focus entirely on that. The location, staff and house all come together to create the perfect home away from home for creativity and inspiration.

Alison May

This is a beautiful place and an ideal environment to concentrate and write. I had heard so much about Tŷ Newydd but it surpassed all expectations!

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Tŷ Newydd is my favourite writers’ centre – warm, welcoming, like a home from home, and the setting is stunning – sea views, huge gardens, picturesque river walks. You are doing a great job and huge contribution to the literary life, attracting many talented and promising writers who are a dream to teach – thank you!

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Malachy Doyle

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Janet Gover

The tutor was outstanding - I've been twice before and I learn more and more each time. Kaite is rigoras, supportive and exciting to work with.

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