Reading our writers
It's been a while since we were able to open our doors to our local community and platform some of the amazing research and writing that comes together at Chapelgarth.
With November coinciding with both ACWRIMO and NANOWRIMO it seemed like the perfect occasion to get going again and present the recently published book by author and Chapelgarth writing retreater, Helen Mort. As usual , it was quite an informal affair - a conversation and dialogue between Helen, myself and the audience - with no online streaming this time. It felt rather old-fashioned opting for an 'in-person' only event - but it paid off. The evening felt intimate and cosy, with the fireplace lit in the background and attendees feeling at ease and relaxed. It meant that there were lots of questions and opportunities to discuss the very compelling topic that Helen has unpacked - the relationship between motherhood and risk taking, in all its forms, but foremost, through the lens of the life of a female mountaineer, Alison Hargreaves.
The timing seemed particularly ideal as Christmas is nearing and friends and families are beginning to wonder about small gifts to but their loved ones. The audience was a mix of young mums, dads, grannies and intrepid outdoorsy people - of which there are many in North Yorkshire! There was also, as customary the supportive presence of fellow retreaters who had been on the writing room and goalsetting with Helen throughout the day ( Helen is now working on her next book).
Celebrating the publication of a book is a good reminder of the 'end goal' for everyone. As usual we had a mix of disciplines amongst our female academic, and the atmosphere - in and outside the writing room was supportive and convivial.
