Where shall we start? Speaking, writing or thinking together?
On Thinking, Writing and Living...
Most of my writing starts with something I don’t yet understand. I’m interested in the space between personal experience and the wider systems we live within, and how individual stories sit inside larger structures.
I write literary fiction, narrative non-fiction and essays. Much of my work grows out of lived experience alongside research, and random ideas that just will not go away. It often returns to questions of emotion, responsibility and community. Where do we sit in the world and is it where we thought we were?
Whether writing, speaking or publishing on Substack, I try to stay with observation and query rather than rush to neat conclusions. I’m particularly interested in the small moments in ordinary life that can have an unexpected impact and even change our perspective. Paying attention and asking better questions matters more to me than certainty.
Alongside my own work, I’m open to conversations and collaborations with writers, organisations and others who are exploring similar questions.
A Pen, A Vision, & Endless Possibilities
The questions that shape our lives rarely belong to a single discipline They move across culture, politics, community, economics, memory and imagination. They sit in the space between private experience and public life.
This is the space that intrigues me and encourages me to write and explore through writing and conversation.
I am not looking for hard answers, because answers are fluid and depend on the person and situation Instead I am looking to deepen understanding. To connect ideas and see where that takes us. This work matters because how we think shapes how we act.
Other's Reflections...
“Gillian’s contribution to our membership as a thought leader, consultant and general muse is one that is hugely appreciated. The warmth and vivacity that shines through, creating space for reflection as well as momentum for change. She has a rare ability to hold complexity without losing clarity, and to challenge us in ways that feel constructive rather than confrontational. Her presence enriches our conversations and leaves a lasting impact on the way we think and work together.”
“Gillian Smellie knows how to create atmosphere and suspense. A gripping read. I hope she is planning more in the series.”
“I have just finished reading Timesmudger by Gillian Smellie, and thoroughly enjoyed it. It is fast paced with good characterisation and quite a bit of mystery.. I really found myself unable to put it down, I will be looking for more titles by this author!”
Conversations are where this work begins.
If you are planning an event, commissioning writing or exploring strategic input, tell me a little about what you are working on and what you are hoping to explore.