A Reflection with Writer-in-Residence Saeed Teebi
This year, the London Public Library and Western University were proud to host Saeed Teebi as our Writer-in-Residence. Over the past several months, aspiring authors from all walks of life had the chance to meet with him, share their stories, and hone their craft. As his residency came to a close in April, we asked Saeed and two participating writers to reflect on what this experience meant to them and what advice they would offer to others considering stepping into this literary community.
For Saeed, the Writer-in-Residence program was not just about offering guidance, but about engaging in meaningful dialogue with emerging writers.
“I think it was a great experience. Hopefully for the students. It certainly was for me," Saeed shared. "It’s a process that’s very special. You get to see people at the early stages of their writing development, and it brings me back to the early stages of my own. It also pushes me to be more conscious about my craft. Giving feedback makes you really think about what makes writing work.”
When asked what advice he’d leave with aspiring writers, Saeed kept it simple: "The best way to learn about writing is to read. Read carefully. Read thoughtfully. Everything in this Library is a resource. Everything is a how-to manual.” He urged writers not to rush toward publication, but instead to focus on the process:
“Refine and refine and eventually, hopefully, you will get there.”
He understands those who hesitated to participate this year. That feeling of fear is familiar to him, and he sees it not as a sign of weakness but as a sign of care for their craft. Still, he encourages writers to take advantage of the program and the supportive environment it offers.
Throughout his residency, Saeed was struck by the bravery it takes to share one’s writing. A highlight for him was the Local Authors Showcase, the culminating event that celebrated participants’ work. “It was a wonderful evening for us to see all the talent in one place.” He hoped that all the writers felt part of the community.
Sohrab, one of this year’s participants, emphasized the importance of Saeed’s nurturing approach.
"He was warm and supportive but did not shy away from providing honest feedback," Sohrab said. "It is more useful if we let (and even encourage) them to highlight our shortcomings and push us towards being a better version of ourselves. I learnt a lot about how to balance my creativity with conventions and my descriptive imagery with conciseness."
For Ruth, another participant, the program offered an invaluable opportunity.
“The Writer-in-Residence program is probably my favourite library program," Ruth said. "For an emerging author like myself, the chance to have an established, published author read my work and offer feedback is pure gold.” Saeed helped her see not just what was working, but also what was missing and recommended other writers she could learn from. The Local Authors Showcase at the end was a wonderful way to share her work and build connections. “I really can't overstate how important this program has been to me. Writing can be a lonely art, and finding guidance is not easy or affordable for everyone. I am very grateful to the Library, Western University, and the different authors I've met.”
As Saeed returns to his busy life as a writer and lawyer, we want to thank him and every writer who shared a piece of themselves to make this year’s program so special. Here’s to many more stories, brave first drafts, and literary friendships formed at the Library.
Any advice for our next Writer-in-Residence?
"You're going to have a lot of fun! Take care with the people who come to see you. Do your best for them. You'll do great!"
Stay tuned! Our next Writer-in-Residence will be announced this August!
The Writer-in-Residence program is sponsored by the James A. and Marjorie Spenceley Fund, the Department of English and Writing Studies, and the Faculty of Arts and Humanities at Western University, and by London Public Library Donors.