about me

I used to have a dilemma. Was I a writer who taught or a teacher who wrote? I used to feel that I had to declare myself and 'just write' to be a real writer. I would constantly berate myself for not having the courage to stop working and commit myself. I have come to learn that a writer isn't someone who chooses to write - it's someone who has to write. Working or not, eventually my mind comes back to my writing. And I'm learning to be more gentle with myself.

I took a year out of 'proper' teaching whilst in Greece, the result of which was 'Alpha to Omega'', to be found on this site, and a realisation that the world didn't stop revolving if I wasn't in full time work. I kept up a steady stream of English lessons, did a tremendous amount of Oral Examining for the British Council, and thoroughly enjoyed myself into the bargain.I was lured back into the classroom, however, and found myself teaching ICT at a Greek International College - an ill-fated choice, as it turned out, cut short by a nasty little motorbike accident that led to my leaving Greece.

The wonderlust remained, however. I met my wife in Brussels and we quickly headed once again for warmer climes. I took up the role of Headteacher in an International School in Saigon, Vietnam. I discovered that I need time and relaxation to find inspiration, and there's little of either commodity in educational managment. After two years, I bowed out...

I spent some time doing what I'd never before allowed myself to do. Writing. Full time. Which meant, in reality, lingering coffees in various Saigon cafes, days spent with neither computer nor pen, mulling quietly to myself and, occasionally, a flurry of activity as an idea takes form. I'm still working on a 'Vietnam' novel at the moment, 'The Year of the Monkey'...

Something intervened though. Something small, demanding and too beautiful to describe. Fatherhood and, more importantly, being a homedad, had serious repercussions on my writing. I spend less time at it than I would like, and more time actually living. Which is probably a good thing. But no more recriminations or self-abuse...when it comes, it comes freely and copiously. I am learning not to force it.

That is absolutely enough about me. I hope you enjoy the site. Feel free to contact me with comments or requests - your feedback on what you find here would be greatly appreciated.