Hi,
I'm Helen, otherwise known as tinyclanger or tc.
Originally from Yorkshire, I'm now based in Newcastle. Qualification wise, I have a BA (Hons) Degree in Humanities, specialising in Literature, and a Postgraduate Diploma in Library and Information Studies. I now work for my local public library service, though have many years of experience as a specialist children's librarian, (11-18 year-olds).
I always thought one day I would write, but have been doing so seriously for about three years.
Publication-wise I've had work accepted by Aesthetica, (issue Seven and issue Ten), Iota issue 72, Poetry Monthly, www.writingforourlives.com, Forward Press and the Newcastle Evening Chronicle.
Three of my pieces, A 'Change of Medication', 'The 53rd Reason' and 'The Conversation' have just been published in the NIACE booklet 'One in Four' which highlights writing and artwork created by sufferers of mental illness.
In November 2006 two of my poems, 'Carrutherstown' and 'Firebird' were published in the Anthology 'Both Sides of Hadrian's Wall' by Selkirk Lapwing Press.
My poem 'The Coir Matting' was a short-listed runner up in the Summer 2005 Competition held by JB Writer's Bureau.
In July 2006 I was selected to take part in a mentoring scheme run by Survivor's Poetry which will culminate in the publishing of a booklet featuring approximately 30 pieces.
My main poetic interests are ee cummings, Wilfred Owen, Maya Angelou, Roger McGough, Billy Collins, Selima Hill and John Hegley, though I am discovering new writers all the time.
My main other interests are music, (Tom Waits, Peter Gabriel, all reggae, Nusrat Fateh Ali Khan, U2, Black Eyed Peas, choral stuff from John Rutter), reading children's literature, and being anywhere, anyplace that's green with fresh air.