The word "Arvon" is spelled with three letters: A, R, and V, followed by the letter O and the letter N. The pronunciation of the word is ˈɑːvən. The initial sound, /a/, is a long vowel sound. The next sound, /r/, is a voiced alveolar approximant, pronounced with the tongue raised towards the alveolar ridge. The third sound, /v/, is a voiced labiodental fricative, produced with the lower lip against the upper teeth. The final sound, /n/, is a voiced alveolar nasal, pronounced with the tongue raised towards the alveolar ridge.
Arvon is a proper noun that is commonly used to refer to the Arvon Foundation, an educational charity based in the United Kingdom. The Arvon Foundation was established in 1968 with the aim of promoting creative writing, especially in the form of residential creative writing courses.
The Arvon Foundation organizes writing retreats and workshops, providing aspiring writers with the opportunity to develop their skills in a supportive and inspiring environment. These residential courses take place in various locations across the UK, such as remote countryside houses or historical buildings, which helps foster a sense of tranquility and focus for participants.
Arvon courses cater to writers of all experience levels, from beginners to more seasoned professionals. Participants are taught by experienced tutors who are accomplished writers themselves, offering valuable insights and guidance. These courses typically involve writing exercises, readings, group discussions, and one-to-one tutorials, allowing participants to explore various aspects of writing, develop their own unique voice, and receive constructive feedback on their work.
The term "Arvon" is often used as a shorthand referring to the Foundation itself or any of its activities related to creative writing courses and events. It is widely recognized within the UK literary community as an important institution that supports and promotes the art of creative writing.
The word Arvon is derived from the Welsh language. It comes from the Old Welsh term ar meaning on or upon, and môn which means mountain. Hence, Arfon refers to the area upon the mountain. Arfon is also the name of a region in Gwynedd, Wales, which includes the mountainous area of the Snowdonia National Park. Arvon is an anglicized version of Arfon.