Tricia Ramsey writes:
What does it take to become a successful or
published poet or novelist? It might take a meaty, nuanced and developed voice.
It certainly does not hurt if one can get unfettered access to a willing
publisher, editor and author.
The Headingley LitFest brought just such an
opportunity to life for those brave souls who desired to have their work
scrutinised. The Pitch and Pen event, staged at the New Headingley Club, gave
aspiring poets and novelists the opportunity to sell their hopes and dreams to
a panel of professionals, with the most celebrated pitch earning the coveted
chance of bending the ear of the publisher.
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The event is now a staple
on the Headingley LitFest calendar and ought not to be missed. One ought to be
forgiven if one assumed that attending a Literature Festival event which has a
pitch and a panel, might need a pint. Pitch and Pen is not such an event, it
provided its own intoxication. This event brought together a range of stories,
including that of a serial compulsive funeral goer, haunting poetry which
eulogised the plight of three hundred ants brutally murdered by a dozy housewife. It
shone a spotlight on questions of adoption and identity and also the horrors of
war. The event was better than billed. The poets and novelists made the room
hum with excitement as they spun their tales.
Sally Bavage adds:
Pitch and Pen - Thankyou to Leeds University student Tricia Ramsey, who helped
us set up a really busy event in the lounge area of the New Headingley
Club and turn it into an intimate and welcoming venue for some nervous
'pitchers'.
Audience Comments
Found event extremely interesting with
contrasting pitches, poetry and novels. Also, will be informative should I
decide to pitch sometime in the future.
Well organised. Comfy. A joy. Obviously
enjoyed by all. Thank you.
Impressive variety of pitches - a lot of
talent to be discovered - thanks to H. LitFest.
The event was varied, diverse and a very
useful and interesting way to spend a Saturday afternoon. I hope it continues
next year.
Really interesting to hear other authors
reading and speaking of their work. The informal setting worked wonderfully.
This event was a lot of fun. Some fantastic
talent on show. The range of styles and content was wide ensuring an attentive
audience throughout.
Really insightful. Like the premise. Lot to
learn from other writers. Should keep it up. Would be keen to attempt in
future. Great opportunity to practise for less experienced folk.
I loved the variety of works and the
friendly atmosphere. I'll attend more if more happen.
Interesting to learn how aspiring
writers/poets submit a pitch and their different reasons for their work.
Really helpful and well organised.
Very worth attending - a good relaxed
atmosphere and standard of writing v.v. good. Venue not ideal … interruptions
from bar, etc. Does the event need a bar?
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The event was well organised. Great to
listen to writers.
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