Participants provide their experiences of the courses and consultancy service.
This course [‘Creative Writing: Introduction’] re-ignited my love for writing , and gave me confidence in my abilities. I gained knowledge about different types of writing and skills needed to become a great writer. I looked forward to the class every week, each week I became more and more inspired to go home and work on my projects. This course unlocked writing skills I never knew I had.
Helen McKenna
Galway
Enjoyed the varied choice of novels, great to be able to discuss them with a group of like-minded participants. Many enjoyable and sometimes lively debates on aspects of the novels and writers. reading one book a week was a bit of a challenge but very worthwhile. Would recommend course to anyone interested in expanding their literary knowledge [Irish Literature Course].
Patricia Lyons
Galway
In an age when it is difficult to find readers–and more specifically, good readers–Martin’s treatment of my novel was a godsend. He delivered spot-on insight with clarity and respect, identifying the strong points of the narrative and those that could use more development or transparency. By viewing my work through his eyes I was able to get around my pre-conceived notions of it and see it as the reader would, allowing me to address it more honestly. Frankly, Martin helped me make it a much better novel. I am indebted to his services.
Ryan Dennis
New York
This course [Creative Writing: Introduction] gave me the confidence to take the time to write and be less critical of myself and my writing. Everything you write is not going to be a masterpiece but it is a stepping stone to the finished project. Martin is a wealth of knowledge on writing and encouraged us to experiment and gave us advisements for improvement.
Emma Walsh
Galway
Very enjoyable and engaging. A good balance of theory, writing exercises and practical advice [One Day Course].
Lynne O’ Keefe
Galway
Very absorbing content from beginning to end. As an amateur, learning the concept of writing, I did not feel overwhelmed by others more professional in the group [One Day Course].
Bernadette McManus
Ballyhaunis
We have worked with Martin on a number of projects, often from project inception. Martin has a great sense of a script and we found his insight into story invaluable in identifying what was working and what wasn’t in various projects. His keen sense of story structure helped enormously in projects that were quite disparate in terms of genre and style. I would advise any script writer to get in touch with Martin early in their process.
Liza Bolton
Galway/London
Well structured, interactive, informative, fun [One Day Course].
Ann Keane
Ennis
Enjoyed group discussion, different views, enlightening [Irish Literature Course].
Paddy O’Leary
Galway
Martin has a keen eye for style and substance when it comes to writing. He is an experienced tutor and an accomplished writer. Recently, I sought his feedback for both a fictional piece and a short play I wrote. His critique was constructive, useful and accurate. I would recommend his input into any creative writing project.
Martin and I have worked also together on a number of projects. I directed a play of his, Coathanger, as part of NUIG Theatre Week. I really enjoy his unique style and find his writing to be intriguing and compelling.
Niamh Nic Aodha Bhui
Galway
Martin provides an excellent introduction to the History writing process [Write the Good Old Days Workshop].
Liam Egan
Ross
Excellent support from tutor. Tutor very willing to share his knowledge with novice writers. His guidance is excellent. Wonderful variety of texts for analysis in class [One Day Course].
Writer from Galway
Excellent opportunity to learn about writing with the intention of getting published. Practical course [Creative Writing: Introduction] for those who are serious about getting published for the first time.
Padraig Dennehy
Galway
An engaging speaker who listens and answers questions in a useful way. Takes a genuine interest in his students [Write the Good Old Days Workshop].
Writer at Turlough Park workshop
