But anyway, I digress...

But anyway, I digress… from UK-based writer Philip Holyman —— my blog and newsletter that includes things I’ve read, heard or seen that have started living rent-free in my mind (for better or for worse) — with sources fully credited and with external links so you can read, hear or see these things for yourself.

Writing Process

Apr 7, 2026

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7 min read

On having a King Canute moment

Writing has been how I rediscovered and retained my dignity during this weird, liberating, insecure, rewarding, exposing time in my life.

Philip Holyman

Sharing Some Dots

On marshmallows, binge-watching and delayed........................... gratification

Mar 24, 2026

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8 min read

On marshmallows, binge-watching and delayed........................... gratification

My educational attainment is pretty good. My BMI, less so. I doubt my parents would describe me as "competent" at anything.

Philip Holyman

Writing Process

On the utter waffling bollocks either side of ad breaks on Sky Arts’ Portrait Artist of the Year

Mar 10, 2026

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8 min read

On the utter waffling bollocks either side of ad breaks on Sky Arts’ Portrait Artist of the Year

I honestly think the note of letting self-doubt fuel you is entirely unplayable, entirely unusable, in any creative context.

Philip Holyman

Writing Process

Feb 24, 2026

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6 min read

On big issues and small details

If you let them come for your milk and say nothing, next they will come for your apples, and before you know it, they come for your freedom, your life, and no amount of bleating will stop them.

Philip Holyman

Sharing Some Dots

Feb 17, 2026

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6 min read

On pride and productivity

[FROM THE ARCHIVE] So many employers profess to value wellbeing — until it comes into conflict with the productivity which they value even more.

Philip Holyman

Writing Process

On (un)healthy relationships with the metal pet

Feb 10, 2026

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6 min read

On (un)healthy relationships with the metal pet

"And then I realised, geez, how dependent I have been on my cellphone. But I should confess, you know, after the first day, I felt liberated."

Philip Holyman