Sorry for the long absence from writing in any form.
A quick re-cap: I am writing a novel using short posts via social media. This is inspired by the projects I have been closely involved with over the years, and others who have used this method.
The PhD I’m working on has taken a great deal of head and life-space since autumn last year. I needed to complete an annual review, which took time to document properly.
Not long after this, I needed to go through what is known as an ‘upgrade’. This is probably the most critical stage in the process before the end submission and defence (thesis and viva). Boiled down, you start on a lower level MPhil, and once you have justified this is truly a PhD project, they ‘upgrade’ you about 1/3 through the process.
I could have skipped this step, and the last 18 months. But I opted to do it in a traditional way and I am pleased I did. I have gained so much knowledge and experience during this time. In periods, I’ve also managed to experiment and enjoy the adventure.
It appears that I have passed the upgrade (although official confirmation may take some time). The assessors were very positive and encouraged me to get back to writing, researching, and learning.
Thank you to all the #vss365 community, and other daily writing prompts that came after. I am continually inspired by the stories I hear.
Thank you for your brilliant support, and for every view, like, poll choice decision on my project #vssphd. It means more than I can say.
I will be posting more polls soon, which will help shape my future stories. Shortly after, I will return to more writing on Twitter/X, Blue Sky, and probably other platforms too.
Keep reading, writing, and inspiring others with your unique and wonderful creativity.
Mark
Metropolitan Dreams 