Celebrating literary brilliance
Second Master English Mr Timothy Derricourt and Subject Master English Ms Kristen Lizzio reflect on the inspirational success of the 2024 “Inside Stories” Literary Festival.
Last year, the English department staged its third annual Literary Festival, aptly themed “Inside Stories”. Continuing on from previous years’ successes, the festival foregrounded the imaginative capabilities of our pupils while offering an opportunity for keen readers and writers in our broader community to engage with some of the world’s finest writers.
The festival kicked off with an elegant Literary Salon at the State Library of NSW, marking a perfect beginning to our celebration of stories. The highlight of the evening was undoubtedly the unveiling of our Creative Writing Collective’s anthology. Under the guidance of our Writer-In-Residence, Ms Jane (JC) Burke, our young writers shared their diverse and compelling works. These narratives not only reflected their unique voices but also demonstrated the powerful influence Jane has had on their creative development.
Pictured: Boys at the Literary Salon at the State Library
Throughout the year, Jane was a consistent presence in our library, dedicating time to her latest novel while offering priceless guidance to our pupils. Her writing workshop, designed for parents, was particularly noteworthy. It provided practical tips and encouraged participants to tap into their own creative wellsprings, proving to be an inspiring venture for all who attended.
Pictured: Some of the parents who attended the writing workshop
The festival’s climax was the much anticipated Literary Night, which began with a lively panel discussion. English master Ms Laura Llewellyn moderated a discussion with our very own Dr David Dyer and guest Mr David Hunt, invoking insights into their creative processes and discussing David’s recent publication, This Kingdom of Dust. The dialogue provided a fascinating (and humorous) glimpse into the minds of writers, revealing the intricate layers of their narrative techniques and creative inspirations.
Pictured: Mr David Hunt, Ms Laura Llewellyn and Dr David Dyer who presented at the Writers in our Midst session
The evening proceeded with an inspiring session featuring internationally celebrated crime writers Michael Robotham and Chris Hammer. This conversation, moderated by the ABC’s Cassie McCullagh, delved deep into the art of creating compelling stories and the rigorous dedication required to thrive in the competitive literary landscape. Key to their discussion was the sense of hard work required to become an author: the dispiriting first drafts; the ideas that never come to fruition; but, chiefly, the reward that comes from persistence and self-belief.
Pictured: Mr Chris Hammer and Mr Michael Robotham at the Literary Night
The “Inside Stories” festival was more than a mere collection of events; it was a profound celebration of storytelling’s unique ability to forge connections and inspire diverse audiences. We are immensely grateful to everyone who played a part in organising, participating in and attending the festival.
Pictured: Illustrator Mr Matthew Lin with the mural that was launched at one of the Literary Lunchtimes
As we close this chapter of this literary journey, we reflect on the joy and inspiration that “Inside Stories” brought to our community. It stands as a proud reminder of the transformative power of literature and the endless possibilities that await when we dare to explore the stories within us. With anticipation, we look forward to more literary explorations and achievements in 2025.
Pictured: Mr Will Kostakis engaging young writers at one of the Literary Lunchtimes
Sydney Grammar School
College Street, Darlinghurst
NSW 2010 Australia
Phone: (02) 9332 5800
Edgecliff Preparatory School
Alma Street, Paddington
NSW 2021 Australia
Phone: (02) 9366 0100
St Ives Preparatory School
Ayres Rd, St Ives
NSW 2075 Australia
Phone: (02) 8302 5200
