‘These days nearly all my friends are writers. Much of the joy in my life comes from our conversations about books, our introspective lives, and our work. It also comes from witnessing their efforts and celebrating their successes.’

Amy and Veechi discussed Varuna’s opportunities and events for writers, the upcoming Writing NSW Varuna Fellowships, and what it is that makes Varuna such a beloved literary institution.

“A great synopsis shows that you understand very clearly what you are writing about, that you are able to encapsulate the intent and trajectory of the manuscript, and that you know where your project fits into the marketplace.”

Fill your September with these wonderful writing events. There’s a range of events to brighten your month, including writing festivals, poetry slams, author talks, workshops and more!

Take a look at what we’ve read in August – a compelling ode to Sarajevo, a contemplative literary novel, a new voice in Aussie crime, a haunting short story, a middle grade adventure and more!

“Once you have that first draft you have something to work with, you’re not facing a blank page and pulling ideas out of the air. Once you have a bunch of ideas on the page in front of you, you’re ready to shape, expand and trim them to achieve the effects you want.”

‘Playing with quicksilver is what poets do. Like children gently prodding the mercury and marvelling at the weightlessness of what appears heavy, the fleetness of what should be slow, the formation of one from what was many, poets do not feel the danger their material conceals …’

“Family history certainly helps us to develop empathy and understanding. Knowing what shaped our ancestors helps us understand what has shaped each of us.”