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Catriona Malan ‘Meet the Author’ at Fruin Farm

‘Meet the Author’ at Fruin Farm (Back by Popular Demand)

Not a shuffle, not a cough, ne’er a sniffle. Total absorption in the event. And what was the event? The award winning poet from Helensburgh, Catriona Malan, who was being interviewed on her life and work. From her birth to the present day Catriona took us on an emotional journey.

Her performance of her ‘Fleckit Flea’ had people chuckling, then laughing out loud. It also received a spontaneous round of applause. Her short poem, ‘The Calling’, took us to the far end of the emotional spectrum, evoking a tear to trickle down many a cheek. From poems which ‘came out fully formed’ to ones over which she struggled, all reflected her keen observation of people and places. She drew vivid pictures mirroring stages of her life and feelings. The readings ended with ‘Ghia’ which won her the James Muir Trophy in the SAW Solstice competition. In awarding her the prize judge Sandra Ireland said, ‘The poem captures the essence of the country in a few deft brushstrokes. Each line was a delight. Not afraid of repetition and experimental rhythms, the poet has used alliteration and a soporific tone to mimic the water lapping on the island shores. An intensely pleasing poem, capturing a mood, a mythical quality of the landscape, without ever straying too far or trying too hard. A worthy winner.’

Catriona took a lot of ‘persuasion’ before agreeing to be interviewed but everyone there was in no doubt that this was an event well worth the attending.

Fruin Farm, Glen Fruin, Nr Helensburgh G84 9EE

www.fruinfarm.co.uk

This section: Books, Talks, Poetry and Creative Writing Events, Mary Irvine: Writer and Philhellene