A Girl's Writing Is Never Done (c) Shauna Gilligan 2026
I’m delighted to have a short story “Like a Hook” in the Spring 2023 Issue of Crannóg (Issue 58), it’s one of ten short stories in this issue. It’s a beautiful publication, with stunning art work, and a wonderful selection of fine poetry and prose. Brava to the editors. You can purchase Crannóg here. I was very disappointed not to be able to make the launch which was held in the Crane Bar, Friday 31st March. With thanks to the editors for accepting my work!
I am delighted to be running a series of seven linked creative writing workshops focusing on Brigid in Kildare Town Library from February to October 2023. Writing Our Way To Brigit/Brigid invites participants to explore, through writing and discussion, what Brigit/Brigid means to them. Participants will have the opportunity to read/perform their work as part of the Kildare Readers Festival in October (KRF 2023).
If you would like to join us for these events, please sign up here (Select “Free Event” and add all the dates into your order). Places are limited, and operate strictly on a first come, first served basis.
With thanks to Kildare Town Library, Brigid 1500 Arts Grant/Kildare County Council for supporting this project.
This year as well as giving a series of workshops focused on Brigid as part of Brigid 1500, I am attending numerous Brigid events.
On Saturday 28th, I attended Brigit of Ireland: Icon for Today, in Trinity College Dublin (TCD) which was a wonderful day of events devised by Woman Spirit Ireland (Dr Mary Condren, Director) and opened by Dr Catherine Lawless, Director of the Centre for Gender and Women’s Studies (TCD). It was great to talk to fellow Brigid enthusiasts as well as hear the latest in historical and folkloric studies. Lectures and presentations included linking place and context, Dr Edel Breathnach and placenames as well as customs, Séamas Ó Catháín who also launched his book The Festival of Brigit. I’m very much looking forward to diving in!
Part of the day invited participants to create a brídeog, the process of which I most thoroughly enjoyed – guided by the ever patient poet Ruth Marshall. I’ve brought my brídeog to the garden (see photo above), and around the house, where she now sits, facing the front door (photo below).
I am very much looking forward to attending many more events (most of which are free and open to all) and encourage you to do the same:
In the spirit of Brigid, Lá Fheile Bríd, Peacful Imbolc….And don’t forget that Kildare calls for a Pause for Peace across the world at 12 mid-day your local time on Tuesday, 1st February 2023.
Shauna Gilligan Writer 