The Roy Jenkins Memorial Lecture

Monday evening was wonderful. The Royal Society of Literature organised a super lecture at the Courtauld Institute (Somerset House). Stars of the evening were PD James (Baroness James of Holland Park) and Sir Andrew Motion who presented an unusual theme 'Going Public'. Chaired by Colin Thubron, the new President of the RSL, the question: "Is it possible to combine life as a writer with public service?" produced a lively discussion before a packed, delighted, audience. Later, it was a pleasure to meet many members and Fellows. Here is SWWJ member Anita Marie Sackett, the writer and poet who also paid her first visit to the RSL. We met many great writers that evening including our new friend from Lithuania.

The RSL offers an exciting programme of monthly events, including lectures, debates and poetry readings. Recent speakers have included Philip Pullman, George Steiner, Michael Holroyd, Claire Tomalin, Mark Haddon, Beryl Bainbridge and Hilary Mantel, and highlights of the spring 2010 season include Seamus Heaney: A Life in Poetry, to be held at Kings Place on 22nd February.