Nothing like where I'm going. Probably.
I’m going to prison.
Not for a stretch, I should say, just for a visit. As far as I know, I haven’t done anything that requires the intervention of the law.
Some time ago I was asked if I would talk to a group of prisoners about my books and I agreed . . . with a little hesitation. I have no experience of prisons – in fact I have a very healthy fear of them – so I’d be lying if I said I leapt at the chance, and I’m somewhat apprehensive of what to expect.
The only taste I’ve had of that environment is when I delivered my vetting forms to the prison. This is part of the process in place to check I don’t have some kind of ulterior motive, I suppose, and that in itself was a little worrying. I know I’ve done nothing wrong, but there was still that niggling doubt about whether or not I would ‘pass’. A bit like that feeling of ‘have I done something wrong?’ when you see a policeman. Or am I the only person who thinks like that?
Anyway, I stepped through the heavy gates, reported in, depositied my belongings in a locker, went through more heavy gates, metal detectors etc and waited while someone checked my forms. Then it was home to wait for the results.
Phew, I passed.
So now that’s all sorted, I’ve arranged a date for a visit. I’ve spoken to one or two other people who have done something similar and all of them have concluded that it’s been a positive experience. And really, why should it be any different from any other author event I’ve done? It’s a little more difficult to set up – I have to send my presentation materials in advance, follow some do’s and dont’s – but other than that (and the heavy doors) I’m guessing it’ll be the same. Maybe even better attended!
I’ll let you know how it goes.
That’s all.
Oooh…. and Oooh! I can imagine this feels a bit odd – sure I’d feel the same sense of unease… but, I bet it’s fab! Never done one myself, would be a bit anxious about it, but then I always am with these things anyway. Imagine it will be a really great experience, once the nerves are out the way. Good Luck!!!
Yeah, I’m kinda half looking forward to it, half worried about it, but that probably describes every event I do. It’s just that moment when the door bangs shut behind you . . .
I always knew you were a wrong ‘un – ha ha!
Seriously, this sounds great (if a little nerve wracking!). Good luck, I’m sure you’ll be fine. 🙂
I’m actually looking forward to it. It’ll be a new experience for me and new experiences are A GOOD THING. Mostly. Obviously that would depend. I can think of a lot of experiences I wouldn’t want to have. In fact, I’ve even written about a few . . .
I’ve had friends who have volunteered in prisons… to run classes, and they found it to rewarding, as well as nerve wracking. I’ll be so interested to hear your experiences!
I’ll let you know how it goes. I’ll be there in a couple of weeks so look out for an update!
Wow, sounds great! Don’t worry, I bet the pre-entry checks will be the most intimidating bit. Make it a good one!
Intimidating is right – went I went for vetting, the staff were polite but very serious and official. A wee bit scary to tell the truth.
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