Tanya Farrelly is a distinguished author and creative writing lecturer whose work spans acclaimed short-fiction collections and bestselling psychological thrillers. With a PhD in Creative and Critical Writing and a role teaching at prestigious institutions such as American College Dublin and the Irish Writers Centre, she brings both academic insight and real-world experience to the craft. In this Q&A, she reflects on her writing journey, career, and how she guides emerging voices as a teacher.
What inspired you to pursue creative writing, and how did your journey as a writer begin?
My journey to become a writer began when I joined a writers’ group in my local library more than twenty years ago. My focus for a long time was on short stories. I built up a writing CV by entering competitions and publishing in journals. Then my first book ‘When Black Dogs Sing’ was published in 2016 and went on to win The Kate O’Brien Award for debut writers.
What do you enjoy most about teaching creative writing at ACD?
I’ve been teaching Creative Writing for 15 years now. I never tire of sharing my experiences with new writers because it remains my primary passion. I love the mix of people we meet at ACD and their enthusiasm for learning. I also love American fiction, the tone and the style of the writing. I enjoy spotting talent, there are students I’ve taught who I know 100% are going to go on to publish great work.
How does your experience as a published author influence your approach in the classroom?
When you’ve been through the publishing process, you can guide students and give them practical advise and realistic expectations. Most writers have to do their own PR and marketing , for example so that is something they need to be prepared for. Writing is just part of it.
Are there particular themes or styles you gravitate toward in your own writing?
I don’t think my writing can be categorised and that’s how I want it. I am curious about and interested in many different styles. It’s always literary fiction, but to explain what I mean, so far I’ve written two contemporary short story collections, two literary thrillers, and my latest book is a collection of magic realist stories set around 1900. I’ve also written a biographical fiction novel.
Can you share a piece of advice you often give your students?
Persevere. Do not be discouraged by rejection or negative opinions. Professional writers have their work rejected, it’s par for the course. Keep trying until your work lands in the hands of the right person, someone who believes in your work as much as you do. Don’t be defensive about your work, listen to feedback in workshops. You will soon learn to filter the good advice from the not so good.
What’s one of your proudest moments as a writer or teacher?
Winning the Kate O’Brien Award was a real high point. Every success is hard won – that goes for me and my students, so I love to hear of people having work accepted for publication.
Are there any current projects you’re working on that you’d like to share with us?
My latest short story collection The Marionette and the Maestro was published last month. I’m very proud of this book. It may be my favourite to date.
What do you love most about working in Dublin and being part of the ACD community?
I share the space with excellent colleagues and enthusiastic students. I couldn’t really ask for more than that.
What’s a fun fact about you that students might not know?
My other passion is music. I’ve been playing the ukulele for a number of years now. There’s nothing like it to lift your mood!