A reflection essay after finishing New Writing North's A Writing Chance programme for working-class writers. Learning how to belong in a world that doesn't belong to you.
I discovered John via Paper Cuts (RIP 🙁) and yourself through John. I’ve never met either of you, but feel that both you, and your already excellent voice, can only grow stronger with John as your ex-mentor and now friend. Go Forth And Prosper. (Tragically unoriginal, but the sentiment is well-meant).
Matt, I loved reading this. ‘Belonging begins this way. Unexpectedly, in tiny kindnesses, in the moments someone makes space for you,’ resonated so hard, in terms of the programme, and in terms of life in general. Thanks for these reflections, and I look forward to following along now our AWC year is over. Sophie
I found your work through Jonn in his very first mention of you. I am glad I did. Have faith - your writing and your voice are worthwhile and I look forward to finding out what comes next.
I found your work through Jonn in his very first mention of you. I am glad I did. Have faith - your writing and your voice are worthwhile and I look forward to finding out what comes next.
This is the first piece of yours I have read - coming through Jonn, obviously. It's a really lovely reflective piece. And I am pleased that there are programmes that are starting to really address those very real barriers you've had to face.
My favourite of your posts is the one where you met your younger self for coffee. (Posted 25th Feb) I loved it. Tender, compassionate truth-seeking. And humour, done with tenderness. You make me smile and a writer who can do that is worth his weight in gold. Keep writing.
I'm with Groucho Marx on belonging. It may be cold outside, but the view ...
I discovered John via Paper Cuts (RIP 🙁) and yourself through John. I’ve never met either of you, but feel that both you, and your already excellent voice, can only grow stronger with John as your ex-mentor and now friend. Go Forth And Prosper. (Tragically unoriginal, but the sentiment is well-meant).
Matt, I loved reading this. ‘Belonging begins this way. Unexpectedly, in tiny kindnesses, in the moments someone makes space for you,’ resonated so hard, in terms of the programme, and in terms of life in general. Thanks for these reflections, and I look forward to following along now our AWC year is over. Sophie
I found your work through Jonn in his very first mention of you. I am glad I did. Have faith - your writing and your voice are worthwhile and I look forward to finding out what comes next.
I found your work through Jonn in his very first mention of you. I am glad I did. Have faith - your writing and your voice are worthwhile and I look forward to finding out what comes next.
This is the first piece of yours I have read - coming through Jonn, obviously. It's a really lovely reflective piece. And I am pleased that there are programmes that are starting to really address those very real barriers you've had to face.
I'm so excited to read more of your work. There's so much kinship to be found as you find your voice, share your words, your point of view.
I came across your post about photos via John’s newsletter and every few days it still comes to mind.
Your voice does carry and it is important. I look forward to reading more of your writing in the future.
My favourite of your posts is the one where you met your younger self for coffee. (Posted 25th Feb) I loved it. Tender, compassionate truth-seeking. And humour, done with tenderness. You make me smile and a writer who can do that is worth his weight in gold. Keep writing.
You are so modest about your writing, Matt, but I really like your voice. You’re honest and you’re good. 👍
I'm so impressed with your writing and use of words Matt.. Never doubt yourself, as hard as it may be
Your voice does ‘carry’ Matt. Keep on keeping on with it! I also enjoyed the ‘floppy haired substacker’ line :)
I found your work through Jonn’s and I’m so glad I did
Excellent Writing. I need to find an agent. Definitely gonna miss you all x