About Silver Hand
It all begins with an idea. In 2022, university alumnus Ciara Purvis sought to give Maynooth University a premier online publication, to promote and foster student writers.
Since then, Silver Hand Journal has been overseen by the committee of the university’s Publication and Literary Society, who seek out student writers through our weekly writers’ room workshops. We hope to not only elevate the voices of budding writers, but also keep an ear to the ground at the university, to keep students informed on what they want and need to know.
With a snappy magazine style and always open doors, Silver Hand Journal hopes to encourage and deliver the best of what the next generation of writers have to offer!
Write With Us
Are you a Maynooth University student, who wants to get their writing out there and seen? Send your submission to publicationliterary@mulife.ie!
If you’d like to talk to our editors in-person, please attend one of our writers’ room workshops, which take place from 3-4pm every Monday. We can’t wait to see you there!
Behind Our Name
The name “Silver Hand Journal” was chosen after much consideration, as we wanted a name that would mean and become something long after its creation. It invokes the Irish myth of Nuadha of the Silver Hand, the same which aptly tells of how Maynooth got its name. The story itself emphasises perseverance and overcoming all adversity, reflecting our own hope that the Silver Hand will continue to persevere as a student publication for many years yet.
Meet Our Editors
Finn O’Neill - Editor-in-Chief
Finn is a third year Arts degree student pursuing a major degree in English, with a minor in Philosophy. As editor-in-chief, he oversees the submissions received by the journal. He has been president of Maynooth’s Publication and Literary Society since the start of the academic year 2025/26.
Jenson Murphy - Content Editor
Jenson is a second year Media Studies, TV Production and English Student. His work as content editor concerns bringing out the strengths of the material from our budding student writers. Alongside copy editor Jade, he is co-vice president of Maynooth’s Publication and Literary Society.
Jade Hannon - Copy Editor
Jade is a third year student, double majoring in English and Business Management. Her work as copy editor concerns all things grammatical and syntax-related, maintaining a high standard of clarity and language across the publication. Alongside Jenson, she is co-vice president of Maynooth’s Publication and Literary Society.
Silver Hand Journal is a member of the Student Publication Association.
