Happy St David's Day

There is much for the Welsh to be proud of on this St David's Day. Cole Moreton, who has family in the valleys, reports in today’s Independent on Sunday.

Looking at literature from Wales, Moreton cites David Jones, Roald Dahl and the two Thomases. The only two living writers mentioned are Dick Francis and Gwyneth Lewis. Unfortunately, Lewis is described as the National Poet. Of course, the talented Lewis was the first National Poet for Wales and she did a great job during her tenure – in 2005-6. Gillian Clarke is in fact the current incumbent.

And why no mention of any of the following, just for starters: John Williams, Owen Sheers, Trezza Azzopardi, Joe Dunthorne, Robert Lewis, Meirion Jordan, Lloyd Jones, Sarah Waters, Malcolm Pryce, Stevie Davies, Robert Minhinnick. Niall Griffiths, Richard Gwyn, Tristan Hughes or Rachel Trezise?

On the plus side, Trezise provides engaging comment on modern Wales for the IoS for the occasion. You can read it here.

And if you want to discover just how much Welsh literature has to offer then click here.

Dydd Gwyl Dewi Dedwydd!

Baylit 2008 - Poetry, Prose and Pinot Grigio

As part of Baylit 2008: Shock of the New, I'll be hosting an event which celebrates the considerable talents of our best young writers.

Poetry, Prose and Pinot Grigio will feature readings from Zoe Brigley, Meirion Jordan, Louise Walsh, Tom Anderson and Joe Dunthorne - all of whom are making waves on the Welsh literary scene, and beyond.

Join us at 7.30pm on Wednesday 8 October, at Bar One in the Millennium Centre, to discover some of the freshest and most vital voices Wales has to offer. The event is likely to be very popular. Visit the Academi website or email post@academi.org for further details, and to book tickets for this and other events taking place during Baylit 2008.

I look forward to seeing you there.