Dr Adrian May

Biography

Adrian May's background is as a songwriter, lyricist and performer on the English folk music circuit. In addition to songs, he has published poems, fiction and many articles on music and Creative Writing, as well as working as a composer/lyricist/musician in professional theatre. His current work includes essays exploring positive views of tradition, and a book on writing mythically. He is a regular contributor to PN Review (PNR) who have published an essay on the lyrics of Arctic Monkeys and recently on Dudley Young and on Tradition. He has an MA in the Practice and Teaching of Creative Writing (Cardiff) and his PhD (Essex) comprised a novel with a critical commentary. He first came to Essex as a mature undergraduate in 1993. For recent activities, click on publications link below. Also see website adrianmay.org.uk He is interested to talk to anyone about writing and creativity, especially with mythic, song lyric, local, folkloric, or traditional influences, and/or connected to DH Lawrence, poet Stevie Smith or Jessie L. Weston. He is the author of books of poems, creative writing books and non-fiction and essays. Community Fellow work includes collaboration with St Leonard's church at the Hythe, where he organises literary and folk music events and collaborating with the Essex Book Festival.

Qualifications

• BA Essex

• MA Cardiff

• PhD Essex

Appointments

University of Essex

• Community Fellow, LiFTS, University of Essex (1/9/2024 - present)