'Write what you know,' we are advised. You will interest readers by giving them an insight into your culture. You have a unique understandin

Writing fiction is the form of art in which you put yourself on the line most. Musicians hide behind an instrument; songwriters can always say it was just bants*, Eminem being an example of such verbal contortion. An artist’s work is open to interpretation. Journalists report facts, or a version of them. Poets give us a slice of life, but it's only a slice. Even stand-ups can hide behind the need to be funny. But when you write a story, and particularly if you are arrogant**

Some years ago I went on my first writing retreat. It was bucolic, inspirational, and led to some interesting connections. And what I learnt was that there is one thing writers do best: they carouse. The retreat was held at the beautiful Duncton Mill, on the South Downs, in a series of cottages, each with an open fire. Wine was available at cost price from the kitchen. Some people brought a bottle or several with them. You could add wine to your evening meal, if you wanted. Y