New Posts
My 2026 writing course on Lesbos
I’m leading a writing course on the beautiful Greek island of Lesbos from 5-12 September 2026.
Who’s afraid of autocracy?
“Mr Nobody against Putin” and “The Wave” highlight the seductive danger of autocracy, and why we should never assume “it couldn’t happen here”.
How to stay sane: never take yourself too seriously
How to stay sane: some unexpected advice from ultra-loud rock band Deep Purple, delivered privately to the author one evening in Vienna
How to be a genius
How to be a genius: helpful advice and quotations from Deep Purple, P G Wodehouse and Lawrence Durrell. It’s easier than you’d think.
Cafe Malipop: a great Vienna cafe turns 40!
Cafe Malipop is one of the finest, weirdest and most unique cafes in a city of fine, weird and unique cafes. Worth a visit.
A black female Bond? Ian Fleming would hate it – but why not?
A black female Bond would not conflict with the core values of Ian Fleming’s brilliant but dated creation. We should try it.
East West Street: genocide? Or crimes against humanity?
“East West Street” is a brilliant memoir that brings to life how World War II and the Holocaust changed international law.
Cosmic kickers: the perfect article or blog: worked examples (3 of 3)
Cosmic kickers, nut-grafs and other exotic sounding but valuable elements of professional-looking articles and blogs are best understood through worked examples. So you want to
Much Obliged Jeeves – 24 quotations
Much Obliged Jeeves is an outstanding example of a PG Wodehouse Jeeves and Wooster comedy. In fact, it is near perfect.
The health benefits of Martinis?
What are the health benefits of Martinis – if any? Is vodka good for you? Two top cardiac surgeons and an ex-ambassador give their views.
I am Pilgrim
I am Pilgrim Review: a compelling plot, rich characters, horrifying jeopardy and seat-edge cliff-hangers make this a must-read.
Reading critically
Reading critically is a great way to improve your writing. I attempt to do so, often noting down excerpts from books as I read. Some results.
Right Ho Jeeves
Right Ho Jeeves is based around Bertie Wooster becoming estranged from Jeeves and having to fend for himself. This does not go well.
“50 Shades” review
Is “50 Shades of Grey” brilliant, erotic literature, or sexist nonsense? 5 reasons the trilogy is brilliant. Five reasons it’s awful. And 39 juicy quotes!
W. Somerset Maugham on sex, turnips and the meaning of life
W Somerset Maugham compares turnips and sex. Is he wise, or daft? Can we use his wisdom – if any – to make ourselves happier?
Arvon writing courses review: fun and inspiration at The Hurst, Shropshire
Arvon writing courses review: why the Arvon foundation offers some of the world’s top writing courses and how they can help you.
Skyros writing courses
Skyros writing courses: heaven under the Greek sun. For stimulating company, great teaching and wonderful weather, Skyros is unbeatable.
Paper or computer? Which is better for fiction?
Paper or computer? Should you use a computer or pen and paper to write fiction? How about if you are writing the first draft of your novel?
Writing prompts: 5 sources of inspiration for your stories
Four top sources of writing prompts for your fiction. Where to find story ideas and inspiration for novels and short stories.
Writing about writing
Writing about writing: studying great writers and focusing on technique can both help you write better fiction. We can learn from others.
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