The University of Notre Dame’s innovative Creative Writing program at Kylemore, featuring distinguished authors Marina Carr and Dionne Irving, has become a beacon for aspiring writers. This unique educational initiative combines the atmospheric beauty of the Irish landscape with world-class literary instruction.
Program Overview
The program employs a workshop-based methodology, where students engage in intensive writing sessions, peer review, and one-on-one mentorship with faculty. This approach allows for personalized attention and constructive feedback, essential elements in developing strong writing skills.
Students benefit from the unique opportunity to write in an environment steeped in Irish literary tradition. The Gothic revival castle and Victorian walled garden provide an inspirational setting that enhances creative expression. The program incorporates local history, mythology, and landscape into the curriculum, offering students a rich cultural context for their work.
Learning Outcomes
Participants develop advanced skills in:
- Critical analysis of literary texts
- Creative composition across multiple genres
- Understanding of narrative structure and technique
- Professional manuscript preparation
- Literary voice development
- An understanding of the publishing landscape
Distinguished Faculty
Marina Carr, renowned Irish dramatist and playwright, brings her extensive experience in theater and dramatic writing to the program. Her expertise in crafting compelling narratives and complex characters offers students invaluable insights into the art of storytelling.
Alongside Carr, Dionne Irving, acclaimed fiction writer and essayist, provides students with a contemporary perspective on prose writing and the craft of fiction.
Our Literary Legacy
The Creative Writing program has been enriched by the contributions of numerous acclaimed authors who have shared their expertise and insights with students. Each of these distinguished writers has contributed to creating a dynamic and diverse learning environment, offering students exposure to various literary styles and approaches to the craft of writing.
Impact and Future Directions
The program has already demonstrated significant success in fostering emerging writers and contributing to the contemporary literary landscape. As it continues to evolve, the Creative Writing program at Kylemore Abbey stands as a model for innovative writing education that combines academic excellence with cultural immersion.
Through this unique collaboration with Marina Carr and Dionne Irving, Kylemore Abbey is not just preserving literary traditions but actively shaping the future of creative writing education in an international context.
Student Testimonials
Before attending this program, Libby had taken fiction classes, but she experienced a newness in encountering the self as a limitless creator:
“Making up characters and making up people, it was very God-like . . . I had never written something not based on real life, and that kind of power was so exciting.” In lectures, she was particularly moved by playwright Marina Carr’s philosophical framing of the writing process: “[Marina Carr] understood writing as inherently an encounter with your existence. You have to know what you believe about the world before you can start writing, so you have clarity.” — Libby Garnett (‘26), a senior with a double major in Philosophy and English with a concentration in Creative Writing. Read more about her experience!
“The summer program at Kylemore was one of my most enriching experiences. Not only did I have the opportunity to connect with the landscape of Ireland, but also with a wonderful group of teachers, artists, staff, and friends that made my summer truly unforgettable.” — Kate Ross ('24), a senior with an American Studies major and a minor in the Gallivan program in Journalism, Ethics, and Democracy.
“The Kylemore Creative Writing Program was the perfect blend of academic growth and international exploration. This program allowed me to develop as a writer through various short-form exercises and immerse myself in the Irish culture and countryside. Coupling these elements with the intimate, supportive atmosphere of the small cohort sets students up for an incredible experience.” — Andy De La Garza ('25), a Junior with a double major in Business Analytics and English
“I wouldn't trade my time with the Kylemore Program for the world! I learned so much about writing (from the other students as well as Professor Dionne Bremyer and Marina Carr!) and experienced Ireland in a way I never could have without going there. The incredible excursions and amazing food were absolutely unforgettable as are the many friendships I made and that I'll cherish for years to come.“ — Amanda Muhr ('25), Junior English and Theology double major