The essay is an idiosyncratic art. It can cover any topic, any time, and gives to the reader an insight into the workings of the world that lie beyond their own experience; like a panoramic view through a single window. They teach us, entertain us – and yet we often forget them in favour for their creative cousins; novels, plays, poetry. But essays, too, are creative, and to share their experiences we bring you three of the most engaging writers of the craft.