Loughborough University Literary Festival

Each year Loughborough University students on the MA courses in Creative Writing and Contemporary Literature undertake a module called Writing in the Community. On this collaborative, project-based module, students collectively plan, curate, promote, and hold a modest literary festival. 

The festival is open to the public and the Loughborough University community each year, with events taking place on campus and in Loughborough town centre. LU Arts provides funding and support to the students organising the festival. 

The 2024 festival, held from 30 May 2 June, was a resounding success, bringing together the Loughborough community and the public for a vibrant celebration of literature. 

The festival kicked off with a creative writing workshop led by the renowned author Jasper Fforde. Fans of his absurdist fiction had the opportunity to learn from the master himself during this insightful session. Later that day, Fforde returned for a captivating talk centered around his latest book, "Red Side Story." 

Friday then saw the stage taken by the talented cohort of this year's MA Creative Writing students. Their readings showcased a diverse range of voices and styles, offering a glimpse into the burgeoning literary talents nurtured at Loughborough University. 

If you want to sample some more creative work, some of the students chose to display their talent in alternative ways. Chloe Cheng created a video adaptation of her crime short story, Follower Accepted. Also, Miri and Katy recorded a podcast below, in which they read and discussed their work. 

“It was so inspiring to hear the work of our wonderful Creative Writing Students. With a variety of performances from readings of YA fiction to poetry, this event was such a fun way to promote creativity and showcase the talent of the department!” - Ella Thorpe, LU LitFest Committee Member 

Charly Cox, a poet, artist, and activist, graced the festival on Saturday. Her powerful reading and conversation explored themes of gender equality and mental health advocacy, sparking thought-provoking discussions amongst the audience. 

“Charly Cox has a special talent for performing poetry that captivates the entire room. Her work resonated with so many audience members, making us laugh and cry! Not only was her reading so inspiring, but she made such an effort to form personal relationships with us! It was definitely an event to remember.” – Anna Shjpman, LU LitFest Committee Member

The festival concluded on Sunday with a thought-provoking online talk by Emily Hauser. Hauser delved into the classic Trojan War myth from a fresh perspective, focusing on the often-overlooked experiences of the women involved. 

“I am in absolute awe of Emily Hauser’s extensive and impressive knowledge of Greek Mythology. Her passion for the subject really shone through and it was great to hear her discuss the narratives behind her four novels. As an avid fan of modern, feminist retellings of Greek Myths, it was such a pleasure to meet Emily and I hope our paths will cross again in the future!” Chloe Cheng, LU LitFest Committee Member 

Overall, this years festival was a resounding triumph. The student organizers deserve immense credit for curating a program that appealed to a wide range of literary interests. The festival provided a platform for established authors, rising stars, and important conversations, leaving a lasting impression on all who attended. 

All photographs: Chloe Cheng