About Me
Hi, I’m Marc Brüseke—an academic, educator, and writer originally from South Africa, now based in England. My work explores storytelling as a lens for understanding identity, memory, visual culture, and global perspectives. I believe stories are transformative tools, shaping how we connect with ourselves, others, and the world.
I hold a PhD in English Literature and Creative Writing, where I investigated experimental memoirs that weave fragmented narratives with critical reflection. My academic foundation includes an MA in Sociology and Global Change and a BA (Hons) in Media and Communication, equipping me with a multidisciplinary approach to exploring narrative, history, and culture.
Academic and Creative Work
As a university lecturer, I teach English Literature, Creative Writing, and Media and Communication, fostering curiosity, creativity, and critical thinking in my students. My teaching philosophy is grounded in encouraging students to find their voices, ask bold questions, and embrace the creative vulnerability inherent in good storytelling.
“Fragmented storytelling mirrors the way memory itself works—capturing the fleeting, the unresolved, and the deeply personal.”
My research intersects creative nonfiction, postcolonial identity, and visual culture, with a particular focus on how memory and place shape personal and collective histories. Beyond academia, my creative projects emphasise experimental nonfiction. One of my signature practices is “photo-sketching,” a technique that combines text and photography to craft fragmented narratives reflecting memory’s ephemeral nature.
My writing has been published in quarterlies and anthologies, and I’m currently developing two memoir volumes based on my PhD research. These works explore themes of identity, belonging, and the narratives we create and inherit, blending personal history with global perspectives.
A Journey Across Continents
Born and raised in South Africa during the final years of apartheid and the early days of democracy, my upbringing was shaped by stories of change, resilience, and reconciliation. These experiences deeply inform my understanding of identity and the complex intersections of history and culture.
“Migration taught me the power of adaptation, the challenge of belonging, and the beauty of carrying multiple identities at once.”
In the early 2000s, I moved to England, which added new dimensions to my sense of self. Migration offered a unique perspective on the interplay between adaptation and identity. Each journey not only broadened my worldview but also wove its threads into the fabric of the stories I tell—grounded in place, memory, and the interconnectedness of lives. These experiences underpin my memoir work and creative nonfiction, which draw on a rich tapestry of global perspectives.
Life Beyond Work
When I’m not teaching or writing, I find inspiration in life’s quieter moments. I’m a cat person, enjoying the companionship of feline friends, and an avid walker, finding reflection and grounding in both natural landscapes and urban environments. Walking often sparks my creativity, providing fresh pathways for thought.
“Walking is more than movement—it’s a practice of grounding, reflecting, and igniting creativity.”
Travel is another cornerstone of my life. From crossing Mongolia’s steppes and exploring Southeast Asia to wandering the streets of Tokyo, Shanghai, and San Francisco, my journeys broaden my worldview and enrich my work. Each destination brings new stories and perspectives that deepen my research and writing.
A tea enthusiast and lover of beautifully crafted books, I find inspiration in photography and fine art. Photography, like storytelling, captures fragments of time—its fleeting moments mirror the fragmented approach I take in crafting narratives, preserving and reflecting the complexities of memory and experience. My creative projects often begin with images, using photography as a springboard for my “photo-sketching” practice. For me, the everyday—whether a fleeting moment or a simple walk—is a constant source of inspiration.
Philosophy and Values
At the core of my work is a profound respect for stories—their power to preserve, challenge, and transform. Whether in the classroom or on the page, I strive to create spaces where stories can foster empathy, understanding, and change. My teaching and writing reflect my belief in the necessity of creative, critical, and analytical thinking to navigate our complex world.
“Stories preserve, challenge, and transform—they’re at the heart of everything I do.”
I am passionate about empowering students to find confidence in their voices and push the boundaries of their thinking. In my writing, I aim to explore the human condition with honesty and imagination, inviting readers to reflect on identity, belonging, and the ways stories connect us all.
Get in Touch
Whether you’re a fellow writer, educator, or simply curious about my work, I’d love to hear from you. Feel free to get in touch to start a conversation or explore collaborations. Whether you’re interested in mentorship, creative exchange, or just sharing ideas, I’m always eager to connect.
Connect with me on LinkedIn or follow my journey on Instagram for glimpses into my creative process, inspirations, and snapshots of the moments that shape my work.