I have this blog

Welsh General / Questions
#1

I’ve always enjoyed writing and have always wanted to do something worth while with my writing. But I’ve quite a way to go to get to the publishing stage.

Though I’ve been experimenting on and off with writing since I was a teenager, I’ve still got much to learn. Therefore I continue to practice, both in Welsh and English, trying out different forms and genres, slowly finding my voice and trying to become better accomplished at the craft.

So my blog is random. It’s bilingual and contains an array of different styles of writing, some better than other and some quite raw I’m afraid.

What I need right now is constructive criticism, especially from those with experience of writing themselves, or even those with experience of editing and publishing. But also from a wider audience.

Positive or negative, any constructive criticism will help. This is the year I take this writing business seriously and try to take it to the next level.

I was lucky enough to attend a course at the North Wales writing centre, Ty Newydd in Llanystumdwy last year. It was an inspiring and encouraging time and an honour to be there.

My sister in law (brother’s wife) worked at Ty Newydd for 11 years, and it was she who arranged for me to attend the course last September. Olwen had a huge passion for Welsh literature and culture and loved writing herself, though didn’t have the confidence to do anything with it so no one, except my brother, saw her writing.

Unfortunately, my sister in law, Olwen, passed away suddenly two days after Christmas, following a short illness. It was a huge shock - she was a good friend, quiet and gentle, a devoted mother and wife.

I’ve spent a lot of time reevaluating my life following her loss, and in honour of her passion, enthusiasm and encouragement, I’ve decided that this is the year I must tackle this craft and see where it takes me.

But in order to do this, I need to put myself out there and face the audience. So I would love if you could help me in some way to improve myself, by reading and telling me how I’m doing.

Diolch yn fawr iawn to you in advance.

Here’s the link to my blog…

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#2

This makes me so happy and excited for you! I’m also in kind of the same boat as you. A friend and amazing woman in my life passed away in a car crash Saturday, so I’ve spent a lot of time this week re-evaluating my devotion to my career (acting) v. my job (at a law firm).

I’ve worked as a writing tutor on and off for about 10 years now, so I’d be happy to lend whatever support I can…in English (for now)! :slight_smile:

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#3

Of course, I was drawn first of all to the Saesneg “Big Spender” and found it really enjoyable. The piece was easy to read and full of fascinating personal stories delivered with your dry wit.

I then had to choose a Welsh piece so, surprise, surprise, I went for “Porn Carafannau”. Although my expectations weren’t fully met :wink: I really enjoyed the piece for much the same reasons as the English piece. The conclusion must be that you write as well in English as you do in Welsh - Respect! :sunny:

Twp joc removed by embarassed author

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#4

My condolences on your loss, Megan

#5

So very sorry for your loss Megan, what a terrible tragedy. Thoughts are with you. X

Thank you for your offer, it is greatly appreciated and I’ll look forward to chatting with you when things have settled a little.

#6

Diolch Huw! :slight_smile:

Some of the earlier pieces are full of grammatical atrocities! Lack of patience and focus on my part. Also a tendency at times to write sentences which are far too long and to favour informal language.

It’s important for me to recognise my weaknesses and work through them. Diolch gyfaill. :slight_smile:

#7

O diar, Catrin - that’ll teach me for trying to make a joc bach on the forum. :blush: I assumed the fact that I was referring to grammatical errors in the Welsh piece would have made it clear that o’n i’n tynnu dy coes.

I am totally unqualified to comment on your Welsh grammar, of course, but even to a learner like me, the beauty of your spoken and written Welsh shines through.

My comments on your blog were meant to be unreservedly appreciative and complimentary as it deserved.

“It’s the way I tell 'em” :blush:

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#8

Ti’n gariad Huw. Your humour is always a pleasure. I’m a woman on a mission I’m afraid, determined to conquer my own personal grammar mountain… I’ll wave at you from the top when I get there. :wink:

#9

Diolch yn fawr, Huw a Catrin. :star2:

#10

Thank you for your PM, it was awesome! :smiley: