Creative Writing Student, Peter McGhee, publishes first book of poetry

For many people, writing a book remains a lifelong dream.

For Peter McGhee, that dream became a reality at the age of 75.

Peter McGhee

When Peter first joined my Creative Writing course, he brought with him something incredibly valuable – a lifetime of memories, experiences, observations, and a collection of poems he had quietly written over many decades. Like many aspiring writers, he wasn't sure how to turn those words into a professionally published book.

Over the following months, we worked together to shape his manuscript, organise the collection, prepare it for publication, design the cover, and navigate the world of self-publishing. Seeing his confidence grow throughout the process was every bit as rewarding as seeing the finished book in print.

His debut collection, The Quiet Things We Keep: Poems from a Lifetime, is exactly what the title suggests – a thoughtful and heartfelt reflection on seventy-five years of life.

Inspired by ordinary moments, family, friendships, changing times and the passing years, Peter's poems remind us that some of life's most meaningful stories are found in the everyday. His writing is warm, honest and accessible, touching on themes of love, ageing, humour, nature and memory.

Born in Fraserburgh and raised in Peterhead, Peter has spent much of his life quietly capturing his thoughts through poetry. Now, after decades of writing for himself, he has finally shared those words with the wider world.

Helping Peter publish his first book has genuinely been one of the highlights of my work as a creative writing tutor. Watching someone hold their first published book—especially after carrying that dream for so many years—is something that never loses its magic.

Peter is absolutely chuffed to bits, and rightly so.

His achievement is also a reminder that creativity doesn't have an age limit. Whether you're 17 or 77, your stories matter, your experiences are worth sharing, and it's never too late to become a published author.

Congratulations, Peter. I'm incredibly proud to have been part of your publishing journey, and I know your book will bring enjoyment and reflection to many readers.

The Quiet Things We Keep

Click to buy on Amazon

The Quiet Things We Keep (Poems from a Lifetime) is a heartfelt collection of poetry spanning decades of observation, memory, love and reflection. Drawing inspiration from ordinary moments and the people who have shaped his life, Peter McGhee offers readers a deeply personal collection filled with warmth, wisdom and sincerity.

Perfect for readers who enjoy reflective poetry, the book celebrates the beauty that can be found in everyday life and the quiet moments we often treasure the most.