introductions

For our first post, we figured we’d introduce The Belvedere Literary Journal in depth.

After all, who are we? Why are we starting an annual publication? Why “The Belvedere”? What’s the plan from here?

First things first: The Belvedere is a collection of new work by the students (and some staff) from the DCU Creative Writing master’s program. We recognised that DCU was yet to feature a serial creative publication, and who better to kick one off?

We realised the intrinsic value of a class of writers – from different generations, backgrounds, identities – all collaborating to improve their craft, expand their creative horizons, and build long-lasting relationships with one another. Additionally, this wonderful phenomenon is occurring within Ireland, showcasing how an eager and diverse crowd of writers can cyclically learn from and contribute to the Irish literary canon.

After a lot of back-and-forth about names, we decided on The Belvedere. All of us meet for class or to socialise most often at the DCU St. Patrick’s campus, which holds the historic Belvedere House at its centre.

A belvedere is an architectural feature that allows for a fine view – a balcony, a well-placed window, a general building design, etc – which is why you’ll probably recognise a lot of fancy old buildings being named after it. We wanted our publication to offer a fine view of the writing being produced on the campus. (That makes sense, right?)

Plus, The Belvedere has a great ring to it.

So, we’ve been hard at work. We pulled the program staff into it (sorry, not sorry) and held an interview with the 2025 Writer-in-Residence Sarah Gilmartin, who will offer the collection her sharp insight into writing and the Irish literary scene (and a touch of star power).

To add to our strong start, the 2024 Visual Artist-in-Residence Day Magee offered to donate their art for the cover. It’s going to look super cool. We’re putting the finishing touches on the design, but the cover art will be announced in the coming weeks!

The plan for now is to put the collection together and have it printed by June, when we will host a launch party at – where else? – the Belvedere House at DCU, sponsored by the St. Patrick’s Cregan Library. We hope to see you there.

For now, settle in and wait for updates. However, if you’re eager to support us, feel free to attend our upcoming fundraisers (pub quiz coming soon!), pre-order Volume 1, or donate. Printing ain’t cheap, and all and any support is deeply appreciated.

Talk soon!

xoxo The Belvedere team