I found the opening scene

of one my stories

on a hike in the woods.

I'd been struggling to find a way in to the novel...

I needed something tangible, intimate, and symbolic,

while also being mundane and believable,

and as I wandered in nature,

inhabiting the mindset of my characters,

an idea drifted into my consciousness,

and planted itself firmly.

I may never have received the idea

if not for the adventure,

and this is why exploring the world

can be such an invaluable source of power.

When you experience the world,

especially the parts untouched by human civilisation

be they forests, country expanses,

or places where nature holds authority,

you feel a deep connection to your surroundings,

a sense of clarity, and of certainty,

and when you are at one with it all,

you gain insights and perspectives

that enrich not only your worldview,

but your creative soul, too.

Often, circumstances inspire you to craft your best works,

and if you immerse yourself in new and exciting settings,

you will find that spark

and different ways in to your subject.

As someone used to concrete, suburban environments,

changing my scenery to involve more greenery

gave me a shift in perception

and allowed me to enter the nature-rich world

that I'd been crafting in my fiction.

Beyond this specific point of inspiration,

the very essence of being on an adventure

is something that will undoubtedly inspire

a creative mind,

and you may just find that idea

that you'd been searching for,

whether you knew it,

or not.

Creative Update

As noted,

I found a possible way in to one of my stories,

which is something as creatives

is similar to uncovering gold dust.

I have also had a few things bubbling away

including a poetry event I'll be helping with at a local library,

something which I feel is vital given how my local area

suffers a dire lack of literary and creative engagement.

It is a free and unticketed event with light refreshments,

and I cordially invite you to attend,

and perform a poem or two if you so wish,

if you have the time!

(more details on this below)

I also have an upcoming one-man headline event in October,

whose details will be revealed,

very soon...

Upcoming Opportunties

The Emerging Poet Residency (Crate Poetry)

'As Crate Poetry grows, platforming national and international poets alongside some of the most vital voices in UK poetry, it's important to us that local talent grows with it. This residency is how we do that. Six emerging West Midlands poets with their work sitting on our platform alongside headline names.'

DEADLINE: 25TH AUGUST

Inclusive Voices Short Story Competition 2026

'Organised by Calibre Audio (a registered charity that produces audiobooks for people living with a print disability), the Inclusive Voices Short Story Competition is seeking entries of up to 550 words from people of all ages. There are various age categories and written, video or audio entries are accepted.'

DEADLINE: 13TH SEPTEMBER

Catch Me Next

Ward End Library Urdu / English Poetry Event

When: Wednesday 2nd September / 2:00pm-4:45pm

Where: Ward End Library Community Room, Birmingham, B8 2HF

Entry: Unticketed, Free, optional poet signup on door

I hope to see you there if possible.

All the best,

Bilal Psyche Akram