Dear Reader,

It is a pleasure to introduce you to this, my memoirs, written and edited by me, Erin Quinn.

My friend Clare gave me this notebook for Christmas, and I think I'm going to use it as a diary. I mean, all the great writers kept diaries and it seems a bit shameful that I've never actually managed it before.

But this year is different. These are extraordinary times in Derry - historically, politically and culturally and I suspect that it may soon become clear that I'm ... well, the voice of a generation. After all, writing isn't a choice. It's a calling.

I hope, dear Reader, that you enjoy, cherish and value my insights.

To get a fringe or not to get a fringe?
Pros: will look French
Cons: might go frizzy