Online Creative Writing student shares his experience of studying after retirement

“Age quickly became less important than a shared enthusiasm for writing,” says Keith Butler, a BA(Hons) Creative Writing (Online) student who decided to pursue a degree in writing at 80 after retiring from his career in technology.  

After studying science, Keith spent 40 years pursuing a career in technology and embracing the innovation of computers as it arose. It wasn’t until he retired that he discovered his love for writing and allowed himself to pursue it. Whether it be flash fiction, vignettes, humour or poetry, Keith found a passion for the craft and decided to explore it further.  

“I was influenced into taking writing more seriously when I met Henry Normal (writer, poet, radio presenter and tv and film producer), who addressed me as a fellow poet. It was then that I began to believe maybe I had something worth saying. Rather than seeing age as a limitation, I began to see it as an advantage – I had decades of stories, observations and experiences to draw upon. It was that realisation that ultimately encouraged me to apply to study at Falmouth.” 

When asked how he has found the experience of studying at 80, he shared: “It’s been both challenging and rewarding. Turning to academic study after so many years wasn’t too much of a shock; I turned the analytical skills from my career into critical reading. Studying at this stage of life also gives me a strong sense of purpose and curiosity. 

“As the course is online, it has a WhatsApp group with fellow students which is incredibly supportive, both academically and emotionally. The process of offering and receiving critical feedback is so important in refining skills and work. I have found the experience surprisingly welcoming; age quickly became less important than a shared enthusiasm for writing. My younger fellow students bring fresh perspectives and energy, while I contribute the life experience I’ve had. Suddenly being surrounded by so many creative people is invigorating.” 

BA(Hons) Creative Writing (Online) lecturer, Lynn Huggins-Cooper, played a pivotal role in helping Keith to feel a sense of belonging on the course from the outset. “From the beginning, she treated me not as an exception because of my age, but simply as a writer with potential,” Keith shared with us. “Lynn has offered constructive feedback, reassured me when I doubted myself, and helped me to see that uncertainty is part of the creative process for everyone, not just mature students returning to study. 

“My course tutor’s confidence in my ability has helped me to develop confidence in myself. Sometimes all it takes is one person who genuinely believes you can succeed. With her support, when someone asks me what my occupation is, I no longer say ‘retired’. I say ‘writer’. 

“Starting a degree at 80 was not about proving anything to others; it was about remaining curious and engaged with the world. Education can be transformative at any age, and creativity thrives when we allow ourselves to keep growing.” 

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