UCL Publishers' Prize: Libraries

Rowan, one of the judges of the "dark" submissions and author of Harmless Like You, has spoken to us about writing themes and the creative process. How would you describe your writing style? I hope my style is still a growing changing thing. There’s a misconception floating around that one day you find your writing style and then you’re done—finished. To me, what keeps it interesting is when I surprise myself. Is there a particular theme you try to convey in your writing, be it societal, cultural, moral etc.? I am particularly interested in moral grey areas. The moments in life where there isn’t a right answer. I’m not so much interested in heroes and villains as I am in people trying to liv

Eley Williams, one of the judges on our "light" panel, has happily answered some of our questions about her writing, her creative writing tips and her favourite book. Tell us a bit about yourself. I’m a writer and occasional lecturer based in London with two recent publications: a poetry pamphlet Frit (Sad Press, 2017) and a collection Attrib. and other stories (Influx Press, 2017). The latter is currently shortlisted for the Republic of Consciousness Prize, and longlisted for the Dylan Thomas Prize. I am also writer-in-residence at the University of Greenwich. Your writing is known for its eloquent and unique subversion of language (even though you make the point that words don’t necessari

A reflection on how important bookshops are in times of online shopping.