Description

Workshop 1
3 X Hour workshop – 22/08/21
Mapping Colmcille: Exploring the Influence of Landscape

In this workshop, we will draw inspiration from the traces of Colmcille that remain in the physical landscape today. We will discuss how Colmcille is viewed and celebrated differently in Ireland and in Scotland and we will also look at questions of ecology within the context of Colmcille’s story. This workshop is suitable for anyone with an interest in writing on the subject of landscape.

Workshop 2 – 12/09/21
3 X Hour workshop
The Battle of the Book: Exploring Power & Conflict in the Story of Colmcille

The Battle of the Book is said to have taken place in the 6th Century, when a dispute broke out between Colmcille and a scholar named Finnian. In a landmark ruling, King Diarmait mac Cerbaill gave his judgement on what is known as the first copyright case ever, “To every cow belongs her calf, therefore to every book belongs its copy.” Today, many of the questions concerned with this part of Colmcille’s story remain relevant. Who owns language? Who owns narrative? In this workshop we will look at how we can begin to consider themes of conflict, violence and resolution in our poems. What aspects of The Battle of the Book can we draw inspiration from? This workshop is suitable for anyone with an interest in exploring the art and craft of writing poetry.

Workshop 3:
3 X Hour workshop – 10/10/21
Making a connection with the story of Colmcille.

How can we find ways of connecting in poetry to Colmcille? How can we connect with an identity that is meaningful to us? In this workshop we will draw inspiration from perspectives and mythologies related to Colmcille who was, variously, depicted as a prince, scholar, saint, and who even featured in creature form. This workshop will provide a space to consider mythologies, symbolism and identities formed out of an intersecting pagan Ireland and Christian Ireland. This workshop is suitable for anyone interested in the art and craft of writing poetry.