#BrokenAsides with Helen Jeffery

When did you first feel like a writer?

When I was accepted onto the Playwriting Programme at the Liverpool Everyman Theatre in 2015-16. It was during this time that I wrote 2 plays (that subsequently went onto be produced elsewhere!)

What’s the most interesting thing that has inspired your writing and what was the result?

I have always taken inspiration from my personal experiences – hence writing ‘ The Brink’ which was a largely autobiographical play, based on my experience of suffering post- natal illness. 

More recently I self-published my debut poetry pamphlet, ‘Journey,’ which draws on many themes pertinent to myself and others such as loss, divorce and mental health. However, I do write positive poems too – honestly! 

Paint us a picture: what does your writing process look like? Do you write in coffee shops at night or only on an old type-writer?

I write whenever and wherever I can…usually fuelled by mugs of coffee. I have countless notebooks on the go, notes on my phone and on my laptop. I find ideas tend to swim around in my head for a bit first before I commit them to paper. I’m definitely more productive earlier on in the day!

Describe your ideal reader: who would your work speak to?

I’m particularly interested in reaching out to readers who might not think poetry or plays are ‘ for them ‘ and some of my most rewarding feedback is from people who say just that. I’m all about breaking down stereotypes about what poetry (in particular) is, what it looks like and who it can speak to. 

Who’s an author you’ve changed your mind about and why?

Ooh interesting question…I’d probably have to go for someone like Shakespeare to be fair. I found him really boring at school but think that was due to how he was taught! I now appreciate his work for its relevance, use of language and over the past few years have adapted 2 of his plays, specifically aimed at engaging younger audiences. 

If you could interview any other writer/artist, who would it be and why?

So many…Holly McNeish, Toria Garbutt, David Harrower, Martin McDonagh, Caryl Churchill. All of these writers have impressed or inspired me at different points in my life. 

What motivates you to keep writing?

A need to be creative, process my thoughts/emotions and a desire to perform. I write poetry that is meant to be spoken as I love sharing experiences and connecting with an audience. 

How do you deal with writer’s block or being overwhelmed by the writing process? 

I’m still working this one out but I guess I don’t put pressure on myself to write. Instead, I’ll read – or try an exercise I’ve done in the past. There are some excellent resources on the Bruntwood Playwriting Page that I return to time and time again. Failing that a trip to a coffee shop, or going into Liverpool by train has provided me with ideas for my writing. I love to watch people and record snippets of their conversations – you’d be amazed what people talk about in public! 

Where would you like to see yourself in a decade? A creative writing teacher? As a best-seller? 

I’d love to be making enough money through my writing to not have to worry about paying my bills! 

What has your work taught you about yourself?

My writing has taught me that I have a voice – and there are various platforms that I am lucky enough to have access to, in order to share this. For that I am eternally grateful. I’ve also learned through my writing that life very much begins at 40+ and age is no barrier if you have something you want to say.