What made you submit your work for consideration for the Seamus Heaney Award for New Writing?
The Seamus Heaney Award for New Writing is one of the most prestigious platforms for poets in Northern Ireland, so submitting is always both an honour and a milestone. Beyond the prestige, the Community Arts Partnership does incredible work nurturing authentic local voices and building a genuine community around poetry. I wanted to share my work within that supportive ecosystem and contribute to an anthology that highlights the richness of contemporary writing here.
What theme did you look at in the poem you submitted?
In Coughs and Sneezes, I explored the theme of Alzheimer’s. It’s a straightforward snapshot of what my family is currently experiencing. I’ve read the poem in public a few times now and I’m both struck and humbled by how many people it has touched.
How long did the crafting of the poem take?
The initial idea came together extremely quickly, taking only around half an hour from concept to what I thought was the finished poem. However, there was a line about a nurse that was too literal and didn’t feel quite right; a few weeks later, it was changed to a “magician with latex gloves” which is a fairer reflection of the amazing work that the nurses and carers are doing.
How did you feel when you found out you were included on the Long List for the award?
I was thrilled to be on the longlist. Having been longlisted and shortlisted for the award before – as well as being Runner Up in 2018 – I know how high the calibre of writing is across the region. Having my work recognised alongside so many talented poets was a huge vote of confidence. It’s always deeply validating when a piece of writing that means a great deal to you resonates with a panel of judges.
How was your experience regarding the event which launched the anthology, presented the longlisted poets, and announced the winner of the award?
It was a wonderful afternoon gathered in a room filled with fellow writers, supporters, and people who care about literature. I was sitting beside Anita Greg and the winner, Susan Gully, neither of whom I’d met before. I have since met them both at other events, which is possibly the greatest benefit of the event – building connections with other writers and supporting each other.
Where to now regarding your poetic writing?
I’m currently working on developing a second collection and continuing to explore personal and social themes through poetry. I was excited to represent Northern Ireland at the Transpoesie Poetry Festival in Belgium last year and this longlisting has given me a fresh burst of momentum to keep pushing my craft, exploring honest themes, and connecting with audiences.
See more of Colin Hassard’s work at the link below
