On Creative Writing
On Creative Writing
Podcast Description
On Creative Writing is a monthly podcast show exploring all things creative writing, including fiction, creative nonfiction, poetry, scripts, and essays. Hosts Emma Woodhouse and Sheelagh Caygill will interview knowledgeable and experienced guests about the craft of writing, the impact of AI on creative writing and publishing, book marketing, publicists, all types of publishing, agents, websites and online platforms, and much more. Creative writers Emma and Sheelagh met during their MA in Contemporary Creative Writing at Northeastern University London. Discover more at Oncreativewriting.com.
Podcast Insights
Content Themes
The podcast explores a wide array of topics related to the craft of writing. Themes include the impact of AI on creative processes, book marketing strategies, the nuances of character development, and the importance of diversity in literature. Recent episodes cover storytelling intricacies from authors like Allister Thompson discussing novel outlining to Anthony Bidulka emphasizing understanding one's 'Why' as a writer.
On Creative Writing is a monthly podcast show exploring all things creative writing, including fiction, creative nonfiction, poetry, scripts, and essays. Host Sheelagh Caygill will interview knowledgeable and experienced guests about the craft of writing, all genres of writing,the impact of AI on creative writing and publishing, book marketing, publicists, all types of publishing, agents, websites and online platforms, and much more. Sheelagh is completing an MA in Contemporary Creative Writing at Northeastern University London. Discover more at Oncreativewriting.com.
To celebrate Women in Translation Month, On Creative Writing speaks with Montreal-based author Marie-Josée Poisson to discuss the translation of her historical mystery novel, Blood Bound: Unleashing Secret Ties, by translator Flora-Lee Bendit, and published Guernica Editions.
Originally published in French in 2014, the novel centers on a determined woman who embarks on a journey to trace her genealogical roots, drawing inspiration from the enigmatic Madame de Pompadour. Marie-Josée shares the fascinating story behind her book’s creation, including her extensive research trips to France, immersing herself in the settings and historical context that bring the narrative to life.
We look at the challenges and rewards of translating literature, as Marie-Josée describes her close collaboration with translator Flora-Lee. Together, they navigated the nuances of language and culture to ensure the English version, released in March 2026, is true to the voice of the original French text. Marie-Josée offers valuable insights into the process of finding the right translator, emphasizing the importance of trust, open communication, and a shared vision for the work.
Marie-Josée also offers practical advice for aspiring writers. She encourages authors to focus on completing their first drafts before diving into revisions, stressing that finishing a manuscript is a crucial milestone.
This episode is a must-listen for lovers of historical fiction, books in translation, or anyone curious about the creative process involved in bringing a novel from one language and culture to another. Discover the inspiration, dedication, and collaboration that created Blood Bound: Unleashing Secret Ties, and celebrate the power of women’s voices in literature across borders.
Find Marie-Josée Poisson at www.mariejoseepoisson.ca/LieesParLeSang, on Instagram, and on Facebook.
She is anticipating being at Winnipeg's Thin Air Festival in early October, 2026. And earlier this year Marie-Josée read in Calgary with poet Nathalie Simpson at Pages on Kensington as part of Flywheel Reading Series. In May, Marie-Josée read with Trident Booksellers & Café in Halifax with Robert de la Chevotière, whose latest novel The Twelth House is released in August, 2026.
Thank you to Hollay Ghadery of River Street Writing for co-ordinating this interview!
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