I'm in London - always stressful at the best of times I find - but I have (almost) finally got my Afghan visa. Today I trekked from the farthest reaches of the Northern Line to the grand residences of South Kensington and the Afghan embassy. It may be one of the most prestigious areas of one … Continue reading Culture lag — already!
Blog
Back in the ‘stan!
Me and some friends in Afghanistan in 2004 I am going back to Afghanistan! It’s at least eight years since I was last there, and I can’t wait to catch up with all my friends, and see how things have changed. But this is not just a holiday. I am making the trip in order … Continue reading Back in the ‘stan!
It’s all over…
The teaching has finished, the final assignments are in, and suddenly all that remains of the MA is the dissertation. (Admittedly, that's 15 thousand words, so no small challenge). But, as if by magic, my brave new year is nearly complete! So, when we met for an event to read some of our work and … Continue reading It’s all over…
A wish for the city
I saw Belfast in a new light last night. And it was all thanks to this http://www.primecutproductions.co.uk/ It was clear, and admittedly cold, but up above the night sky was a deep velvet blue. In contrast, at ground level the streets were glittering with light and life. The shops were relatively busy, there were plenty … Continue reading A wish for the city
Enjoy yourself, it’s later than you think…
Today I am feeling the sort of self-righteous glow that comes with managing to go about your daily business while ticking several important boxes. This morning I got up and caught the bus to St George's Market in Belfast. I saved myself money and wear and tear on my car, and boosted the income of … Continue reading Enjoy yourself, it’s later than you think…
Finding your voice
Just a quickie - this story illustrates exactly why it's so difficult to write what you want to. The more you learn about the 'art' of writing, the more you realise how ignorant you are! http://www.nytimes.com/2013/01/13/magazine/once-upon-a-time-there-was-a-person-who-said-once-upon-a-time.html?pagewanted=1&_r=0
Appetite for literature
The creative zone chez Paul - where no one can hear you scream... It's a funny old thing, but when you are convinced you've always wanted to do something, and then you actually get to do it, sometimes the experience may not be quite what you expected. I hate that phrase - 'Be careful what … Continue reading Appetite for literature
Poetry and Pints
Ok, I'm stealing the very clever title for the gatherings held by the English Society at Queen's - but I'm stealing it because it so aptly describes a recent night. This week I went to a poetry reading. I've been to prose readings before, but up until a few months ago you'd have been as likely … Continue reading Poetry and Pints
Read all about it…
I've spent a couple of nights this weekend being well and truly entertained at the theatre, as part of the Belfast Festival at Queens. On Saturday I was gripped by Huzzies at The MAC , in jaw dropping awe at writer Stacey Gregg's dialogue - sharp, stinging, hilarious http://unitedagents.co.uk/stacey-gregg . It's a play about a band, so the music was … Continue reading Read all about it…
Paper tigers?
I was reminded sharply this morning, of the time I spent in New York last year, with breakfast accompanied by the disturbing coverage of superstorm Sandy. The city that never sleeps was deserted, blacked-out and, in many areas, underwater. It was a chilling sight - and weirdly, almost as apocalyptic as 9/11. Thankfully, all our pals are … Continue reading Paper tigers?