In this weeks interview, I'm joined by the one and only Sinead McGuigan. Sinead is the author of 'A Gift and a Curse' and 'Unbound.' Be sure to check out her work!

Welcome, Sinead. How long have you been a poet?

I started writing poetry in 2019.

Where did you get the inspiration for your books? 

My poetry is directly linked to my own personal healing journey from cancer and my past. I write from a deep emotional place and am influenced a lot my women's rights and freedom.


What is the biggest challenge you’ve experienced in your writing career, so far?

I find it hard to make time to write as much as I would like to, life can get busy so really my greatest challenge is being disciplined more in my creative endeavours.





If you could go back and give your younger self a single piece of writing advice, what would it be?

I used to write as a teenager and certainly I would have wished I hadn't ignored that side of me for so long.

What do you think the biggest challenges are for aspiring writers and poets, right now?

The social media aspect in a sense really is challenging and it can be confusing perhaps to see people with large following and little talent. In Ireland I think there is a certain snobbery almost in what is deemed good poetry

Do you believe that having a strong social media presence leads to more book sales?

It can help absolutely as often it's the only option for self-published authors . I definitely feel it helps me so much and I'm very grateful.







How do you deal with writer’s block?

I genuinely don't get writers block but there are periods in which I don't write.

What is your favourite part of the creative process?

When I see a piece of art or feel instantly inspired by a subject and it flows naturally.

If you could collaborate with any other poet or poets on a project, who would it be and why?
I generally collaborate with artists and my main projects are related to women's issues.

What are you working on now?

I am trying to decide what my next book will focus on.





Where do you see your writing career in 5 years?

I really would like to write short stories and perhaps in time a novel.


Have you ever considered writing in another genre?

Yes, certainly fiction and perhaps a healing journal for others.


What marketing tips would you give to someone starting out in their career?

Always be true to yourself and your art. There are different flavours to be explored but write from your authentic self.


Be sure to follow Sinead's writing journey over on @sineadmgpoetry on Instagram.