Literature Wales (formerly Academi) is taking to the roads, byways and footpaths to bring Wales’ literatures closer to the landscapes in which they are embedded. 2011’s programme is more diverse than ever, comprising four bus tours and four walking tours located across the country from Snowdonia to the Brecon Beacons.
Welsh medium tours focus on the poet Hedd Wyn in Trawsfynydd; the poet, novelist and broadcaster T. Glynne Davies in the Llanrwst area; and the novelist Daniel Owen in Mold.
Topics covered through the medium of English include a writing, walking discussion with Chris Meredith at Table Mountain; the poet Idris Davies in the Rhymney Valley; the novel (and in production film) Resistance (Faber and Faber, 2007) with Owen Sheers in the Olchon Valley; J.R.R. Tolkien in the Black Mountains; and the poet T.H. Jones in Builth Wells.
Tour leaders are specialists in their fields and include former National Poet Gwyn Thomas, historian and author Keith O'Brien, Swansea University lecturers Daniel G. Williams, Nigel Jenkins and Robert Rhys, Literature Wales Co-Chair John Pikoulis, writer P. Bernard Jones, UWIC lecturer Dimitra Fimi and both Chris Meredith and Owen Sheers in person. We will also benefit from talks by local people and relatives of the writers discussed.
The 2011 programme kicks off with a walking tour within the inspirational Usk Valley. Table Mountain through the Eyes of Chris Meredith will take place on Thursday 12 May 2011. Chris Meredith (b. 1954), is a widely published novelist, poet, translator and lecturer at the University of Glamorgan who has won numerous awards for his work. Meredith’s poetry was described by his publisher as showing "a palpable passion for landscape and humanity's place in it" and it is this theme which will be explored on the five-mile walk to Table Mountain and back.
Our literary tours always prove to be extremely enjoyable days out. They offer the unique opportunity to learn about writing and writers, visit significant or inspirational places, enjoy lectures and readings, and engage in debates and discussions.
All are welcome; the tours cater for those with little or no knowledge of literature, whilst also appealing to those with a little more experience.
This year’s programme stretches from May-October 2011. Departure and arrival points are located across Wales. Ticket prices start at £2 and are available on a first come, first serve basis. Please note that places are limited. Refunds, subject to a charge, are only available up to 5 weeks before each tour.