Overview of published works
of David Marshall
This page provides an overview of my current areas of work, together with selected earlier publications, editorial projects and media. While my interests span policy, essays, music, travel and landscape, all of these activities contribute to a body of published work that continues to evolve.
Current Focus
Essayism
Essayism has become the principal framework through which I explore questions of society, technology, culture, place and everyday life. Essays begin as observations, notes and unresolved questions before developing into longer reflections and finished pieces.
Governance and Policy
My policy work focuses on governance, energy, housing, health, public administration and economic development. Observations and research are developed into policy briefings, commentary and longer analysis intended to create practical knowledge that remains useful beyond the immediate news cycle.
Music
Music is both a continuing practice and a subject of inquiry. Through writing on guitar, ukulele, learning, listening and performance, I explore questions of craft, creativity and personal development.
Travel
Travel continues to inform my writing and observational work. Having travelled extensively throughout Europe, North America, Asia, Southeast Asia and Africa, I am increasingly returning to travel as a source of essays, reflection and cultural observation, with a growing interest in travel writing.
2026 list of articles
A chronicle of current articles and publications can be found at CHR.ie.
Earlier journalism and editorial work
Earlier work includes the books Representing Nurses at the UKCC, Conducting Ballots at the Workplace, and Tackling Racism, together with guidance, briefing, training, educational and editorial material covering employment rights, health and safety, equality, professional representation and organisational change.
Alongside this work stands Best Walks in Ireland (Constable), together with periodical journalism and website publishing focused on Ireland’s landscapes, routes, places and heritage.
Video
Building on earlier experience working with a central London video production studio, my interest in walking, wilderness travel and practical skills also found expression through YouTube. Two examples remain particularly representative. One, approaching 100,000 views, demonstrates the traditional Alpine shepherd’s technique for opening and closing a pocket knife. Another demonstrates several practical methods of lighting a cooking fire in a wilderness setting.
Together, these works reflect a continuing interest in observation, practical knowledge, landscape and the communication of skills.
Contact:
If you have a project where you think my approach might help, you’re welcome to get in touch. I take on a small number of projects each year, and I’m always happy to hear from people who value clarity, structure, and thoughtful craft.