English Literature A Level students get expert advice from award winning author, Cynan Jones

“Thrilling”, “inspiring” and “magical” are just some of the words used by the group to describe the experience of hearing first hand from the Welsh author on the realities of life as a modern writer.

Cynan, from Aberaeron in Ceredigion, spent a day with the students at the end of January, talking about his career and answering questions. On the benefits of discussing and demonstrating writing with students face to face, Cynan said: “It gives you a chance to demystify the craft of writing. And when it's demystified it becomes more accessible.”

“I've always wanted to be an author and hearing his professional experience gave me hope that I could be one too,” said student, Zarah.

The class gained a wealth of expert tips and practical knowledge from Cynan about the industry itself and how to grow and improve as a writer. Cynan shared, “precise, workable techniques such as the transformative power of a single word choice, the strength of leaving things unsaid, and the importance of trusting the reader’s imagination,” said English Literature A Level Lecturer, Justin Griffiths-Bell. The students “left not only inspired but more deliberate in their own writing, reflecting on ambiguity, subtext, and the careful craft that turns experience into fiction,” he added.

“I feel like I have a better understanding of a writer’s mind now,” commented Lois, who attended the event.

The students had the rare opportunity to hear Cynan read from his new collection of stories, Pulse.

Our guest speakers are an invaluable part of the A Level curriculum here at the college. Giving students a chance to speak with industry professionals and also explore different career options. Cynan’s visit was instrumental in helping the students boost their short story writing skills. “Just seeing the nuts and bolts being tinkered with in front of them, 'live' in a room, and having a go at tinkering themselves, can help them understand processes in a way that will get them higher marks,” said Cynan.

A big thank you to Cynan for giving up his time to provide our students with such a rewarding experience!

You can see the full range of A Level courses available at Grŵp Llandrillo Menai here: https://www.gllm.ac.uk/courses/a-levels

If you would like to find out more about Cynan and his writing visit: https://www.cynanjones.net/about