Apologies for this being late but I have been busy with other things. I was not asked to do the report until midway through the meeting so there were no notes kept therefore these notes will be short and sweet.
This week's meeting was the first of the scheduled "Hot Pens" and 15 Members attended. ( More than was expected.)
The choice of topic was selected as -"swarming", "swarming over," or just "over".
As usual, after the allotted 10 minutes, each of the attendees read their compositions and again it was amazing how each of us had a different take on the subject matter. The various poems and short stories varied from bees and insects, breakdown of relationships, car thefts, football, limericks, the influx of foreigners to Spain and last, but by no means least, was Lisa's adventure story and although this was unfinished it was agreed that she should continue with this.
After the break, some members continued with readings.
Rosemary read an extract from her book and requested feedback. The members enjoyed it especially the dialogue which was thought to be good and precise.
Norma gave us a rendition of her story about a young girl student from Barbados who finds herself pregnant despite warnings from her aunt.
Glyn has rewritten Chapter 1 of his novel and everyone thought that this was better as it "fleshed out" the hero.
Brenda unusually for her had written a poem. This was a highly descriptive piece of her visit to Norway to see the Northern Lights.
There was no time for us to hear Maureen's item so she will kick off next week's meeting.
As I said earlier, short and sweet.
Ian C
Showing posts with label Overview. Show all posts
Showing posts with label Overview. Show all posts
Sunday, 24 May 2009
Thursday, 14 May 2009
Torrevieja Writers' Tales
This week 15 Members of the Writers' Circle attended the meeting. This week's hot topic(s) were, "The Less Said The Better", ( Our writings surely can't be that bad ), or "Changes". Prior to the actual readings of their work, there were several items of business to be conducted:
(1) The suggested date for a visit to see the eagles did not suit the majority of the attendees and it was decided to postpone until next year. It also had to be explained to Brenda that we would not be staying in the "Hotel California".
(2) It was agreed that we should subscribe to the "New Writer" magazine as this provided lots of information, tips and technical assistance to the aspiring writer. (Some of us more perspiring than aspiring with our writing )
(3) The workshop to be held on the 24th June is to be short story based using the Writing Magazine's competition topics for the months of September, October and November. The story should be no more than 1700 words and it would help, but NOT essential if members had something prepared on any of the topics.
And so the tales started.
Rob kicked off with a piece of fiction (most unusual for him!! See what I mean about perspiring?) entitled "Mediterranean Lady Seeks A Friend" about two individuals meeting through a website. Personally, I thought the guy should have just toured the roundabouts on the N332. There was lots of positive feedback and we all await the outcome to be revealed in the second part of the story.
Glyn as usual provided hilarious entertainment with his rendition of a poem entitled "Timbucktoo". I hope members didn't get the hump with this one. This was followed by an equally good tale called "Have a Drink On Me" and anyone feeling unwell should take care with any drinks offered to them.
Heinke, in her inimitable style, gave us all a most humourous way of determining whether or not she should go to Iceland; (the country not the store). I don't know if the pros outweighed the cons or not but it was certainly a novel way of arriving at a decision. Any decision!!
Brenda continued with an extract from her novel about "The Diaries" and family relationships.
Again some positive feedback here especially on the use of dialogue.
COFFEE TIME!!!!
Brian took as his theme the topic "Less said etc." and gave us an interesting insight into the lives of the Marriott family and Edgar Wallace, the novelist. Brian's still not any further forward in determining why the famous lion was called "Wallace" but does it matter as the monologue was a roaring success.
Ian told the story, in verse, of a young man who leads the most mundane life, has no friends, is alone and finds only excitement in his dreams. Nik said it reminded him of the film "Stranger than Fiction". A number of members awaited Ian's usual twist in the tail. The twist was that there was no twist.
Ann B's story was untitled but told of life in Jamaica in 1974. Not the usual scenes of palms, coconuts and white beaches but the lawlessness of the gang culture and in particular the theft of a house. Yes, you did read it correctly - the theft of a house. Members gasped in disbelief at this fact. It was suggested to Ann that perhaps she should gather together a number of these anecdotes for future publication.
Jane wrote a story that morning on the topic "Changes" and especially lifestyle changes for her heroine and the family she helped. A lot was packed into this short piece and with a little polishing could be used for some magazine's 5 minute fiction.
Mary told of her trepidation at being asked last week to do a "Hot Pen". The piece of verse showed off Mary's poetic skills to perfection.
Cynthia gave a most illuminating reading with her piece entitled "Pets I Have Killed". This was a collection of anecdotes collected from friends and personal experience of the demise of their family pets. Each tale( or should that be tail?) got worse as the story went on. I don't think "Pet's World" staff magazine will publish this item.
Last, but by no means least, came Maureen with a piece of flash fact as opposted to fiction called "The Waterhole" and told of a giraffe's basic instinct to survive despite the threat of lions. Maureen read this item quite vividly that pictures were easily conjured up in all of our minds.
Yet again the subjects covered were diverse and interesting and I guess that's why we keep coming back for more.
Ian C
(1) The suggested date for a visit to see the eagles did not suit the majority of the attendees and it was decided to postpone until next year. It also had to be explained to Brenda that we would not be staying in the "Hotel California".
(2) It was agreed that we should subscribe to the "New Writer" magazine as this provided lots of information, tips and technical assistance to the aspiring writer. (Some of us more perspiring than aspiring with our writing )
(3) The workshop to be held on the 24th June is to be short story based using the Writing Magazine's competition topics for the months of September, October and November. The story should be no more than 1700 words and it would help, but NOT essential if members had something prepared on any of the topics.
And so the tales started.
Rob kicked off with a piece of fiction (most unusual for him!! See what I mean about perspiring?) entitled "Mediterranean Lady Seeks A Friend" about two individuals meeting through a website. Personally, I thought the guy should have just toured the roundabouts on the N332. There was lots of positive feedback and we all await the outcome to be revealed in the second part of the story.
Glyn as usual provided hilarious entertainment with his rendition of a poem entitled "Timbucktoo". I hope members didn't get the hump with this one. This was followed by an equally good tale called "Have a Drink On Me" and anyone feeling unwell should take care with any drinks offered to them.
Heinke, in her inimitable style, gave us all a most humourous way of determining whether or not she should go to Iceland; (the country not the store). I don't know if the pros outweighed the cons or not but it was certainly a novel way of arriving at a decision. Any decision!!
Brenda continued with an extract from her novel about "The Diaries" and family relationships.
Again some positive feedback here especially on the use of dialogue.
COFFEE TIME!!!!
Brian took as his theme the topic "Less said etc." and gave us an interesting insight into the lives of the Marriott family and Edgar Wallace, the novelist. Brian's still not any further forward in determining why the famous lion was called "Wallace" but does it matter as the monologue was a roaring success.
Ian told the story, in verse, of a young man who leads the most mundane life, has no friends, is alone and finds only excitement in his dreams. Nik said it reminded him of the film "Stranger than Fiction". A number of members awaited Ian's usual twist in the tail. The twist was that there was no twist.
Ann B's story was untitled but told of life in Jamaica in 1974. Not the usual scenes of palms, coconuts and white beaches but the lawlessness of the gang culture and in particular the theft of a house. Yes, you did read it correctly - the theft of a house. Members gasped in disbelief at this fact. It was suggested to Ann that perhaps she should gather together a number of these anecdotes for future publication.
Jane wrote a story that morning on the topic "Changes" and especially lifestyle changes for her heroine and the family she helped. A lot was packed into this short piece and with a little polishing could be used for some magazine's 5 minute fiction.
Mary told of her trepidation at being asked last week to do a "Hot Pen". The piece of verse showed off Mary's poetic skills to perfection.
Cynthia gave a most illuminating reading with her piece entitled "Pets I Have Killed". This was a collection of anecdotes collected from friends and personal experience of the demise of their family pets. Each tale( or should that be tail?) got worse as the story went on. I don't think "Pet's World" staff magazine will publish this item.
Last, but by no means least, came Maureen with a piece of flash fact as opposted to fiction called "The Waterhole" and told of a giraffe's basic instinct to survive despite the threat of lions. Maureen read this item quite vividly that pictures were easily conjured up in all of our minds.
Yet again the subjects covered were diverse and interesting and I guess that's why we keep coming back for more.
Ian C
Thursday, 2 April 2009
Meeting of 1st April 2009
The suggested topic for this week was "Poetic Justice".
The number of members attending was 20. There were apologies from TJ and Rob.
Prior to the members reading, Nik spoke of a request that had been received from Jane Cronin for a member(s) to write a radio soap based on life in Spain. Heinke's name was suggested and it was suggested that it may even be a collaborative effort. As the details were a bit sketchy Maureen undertook to get more inforation and report back.
Nik also reported that the "Levante Press" had ceased trading thus depriving the members of another outlet for their work.
Ian asked if anyone wanted to take over writing the blog as he had done it for the past month and others could take the opportunity to write it. There were no takers.
Mary K showed members a gift recently received which was a kit that people could use to commence writing a novel.
Maureen started off the readings with a updated piece fom her novel about travels with her family. This chapter dealt with an Indian train journey. It was very descriptive with good characterization of her Indian travelling companions. Suggestions were made to improve the atmosphere of the piece.
Nik was next with a tongue-in-cheek article on building in Spain and its effect on the world. Not only its economy but its physical attributes. Could this be termed as "The Balance of Payments?"
Jenny gave us "Codgerism" a poem about old age and its benefits.
Glyn's army story "marched" on, this time telling us of a football match. The "tactics ," "coaching skills?" and "rule-bending" provided a hilarious insight into the rivalry of the teams and their followers.
Phil gave us a poem on this week's topic and is part of a trilogy about life on trains. This was a highly descriptive piece about an early morning train journey and its travellers.
Pat read an extremely poignant poem about the human face of the army entitled "Back From Iraq" or "The Soldiers Return". Members found this very moving and Pat is to be congratulated for her composition. I will try to obtain a copy for inclusion on the blogsite.
Brian advised that he had been "nagged" by his driver into doing a piece on this week's suggested topic. This was a short story about WW1 and the poets Wilfred Owen and Seigfried Sassoon.
Ian stated that, having "nagged" Brian, he himself had not written on the topic but a short story entitled "The Parting" which dealt with a child and his mother coping with leaving each other as they were about to start their first day at school. One as a pupil, the other a teacher. Alternative endings were suggested to heighten the emotional aspect.
Chris also dealt with this week's subject in a poem which echoed the current financial situation and its instigators.
Joy's poem on "Poetic Justice" was just that! Questionning what is poetic justice and how it is acheived. It is good to see Joy like Pat beginning to write more and have faith in her writing.
Last but by no means least Alan told the tale of a young man whose ambition was to become a poet. The setting of the story was some time in the not too distant future and his application to obtain a licence to enable him to achieve his ambition. Alan explained that he had misread this weeks topic as "Poetic Licence" as opposed to "Poetic Justice".
Ian C
The number of members attending was 20. There were apologies from TJ and Rob.
Prior to the members reading, Nik spoke of a request that had been received from Jane Cronin for a member(s) to write a radio soap based on life in Spain. Heinke's name was suggested and it was suggested that it may even be a collaborative effort. As the details were a bit sketchy Maureen undertook to get more inforation and report back.
Nik also reported that the "Levante Press" had ceased trading thus depriving the members of another outlet for their work.
Ian asked if anyone wanted to take over writing the blog as he had done it for the past month and others could take the opportunity to write it. There were no takers.
Mary K showed members a gift recently received which was a kit that people could use to commence writing a novel.
Maureen started off the readings with a updated piece fom her novel about travels with her family. This chapter dealt with an Indian train journey. It was very descriptive with good characterization of her Indian travelling companions. Suggestions were made to improve the atmosphere of the piece.
Nik was next with a tongue-in-cheek article on building in Spain and its effect on the world. Not only its economy but its physical attributes. Could this be termed as "The Balance of Payments?"
Jenny gave us "Codgerism" a poem about old age and its benefits.
Glyn's army story "marched" on, this time telling us of a football match. The "tactics ," "coaching skills?" and "rule-bending" provided a hilarious insight into the rivalry of the teams and their followers.
Phil gave us a poem on this week's topic and is part of a trilogy about life on trains. This was a highly descriptive piece about an early morning train journey and its travellers.
Pat read an extremely poignant poem about the human face of the army entitled "Back From Iraq" or "The Soldiers Return". Members found this very moving and Pat is to be congratulated for her composition. I will try to obtain a copy for inclusion on the blogsite.
Brian advised that he had been "nagged" by his driver into doing a piece on this week's suggested topic. This was a short story about WW1 and the poets Wilfred Owen and Seigfried Sassoon.
Ian stated that, having "nagged" Brian, he himself had not written on the topic but a short story entitled "The Parting" which dealt with a child and his mother coping with leaving each other as they were about to start their first day at school. One as a pupil, the other a teacher. Alternative endings were suggested to heighten the emotional aspect.
Chris also dealt with this week's subject in a poem which echoed the current financial situation and its instigators.
Joy's poem on "Poetic Justice" was just that! Questionning what is poetic justice and how it is acheived. It is good to see Joy like Pat beginning to write more and have faith in her writing.
Last but by no means least Alan told the tale of a young man whose ambition was to become a poet. The setting of the story was some time in the not too distant future and his application to obtain a licence to enable him to achieve his ambition. Alan explained that he had misread this weeks topic as "Poetic Licence" as opposed to "Poetic Justice".
Ian C
Thursday, 26 March 2009
Meeting 25 March 2009
20 Members attended this meeting. This week's topic was "The Couple Next Door".
Before the meeting started, there was general discussion on the length of items that should be read each week. The consensus was that because of the numbers attending the maximum length to be read should be 1200 words instead of 1800 as directed in the "Suggested Topics" handout. It was agreed that we would review this for May when the new handout would be issued.
Nik then advised there were new handouts dealing with competition news and guidelines which would be distributed at the interval. It was also suggested that the members should make more use of the blog to access information, post comments and display their writing.
Alan was the first to read with a piece on this weeks subject. The writing centered around an "imaginary" conversation between himself and wife Dorothy, although some members were of the opinion that it was between two males.
Rita, who was absent last week took its topic and read a "factional"item on a trip into the desert incorporating, the words pen,sunglasses and bluebells. This was a good reading using a personal experience to tell a story.
Jane then gave us a humourous poem about her disruptive neighbours.
Douglas took as his subject "What's In A Name". Initially, there were looks of concern as he read about defecation and toilets but the point of the piece was how we try to be inoffensive and "politically correct" and that a spade should be called--"a shovel?"
"Boring Neighbours" was the title of Chris's take on this week's topic. How often have the rest of us identified with the sentimets expressed.
Mary also used this week's topic for her poem but gave it a twist turning a negative aspect into a positive one.
Mary M read three short pieces the first being about us i.e. "The Writers' Circle". Second was a re-read of her poem about the dance and lastly an entertaining piece about a sex goddess whose assets had "gone south" and how she tried to rejuvenate herself. It was agreed that these were worthy of publication on the blog and Cynthia said that she would see that this was done.
Cynthia's "Bosses I Have Known" was a funny insight into a period of her working life spent in Hong Kong and the lengths to which employer went to save money, reduce costs etc. not only in his own work but also in the 25 storey building he shared with other occupants.
Glyn continued with his story of Ned and his first letters home to his family. The humour of this story continued as, depending upon the recipient, the differing methods of begging were exploited.
Christina's poem of her neighbour's intolerance was something we could all identify with but at least she gained a pair of slippers out of it!
Last, but by no means least, was Jenny's view of "The Couple Next Door" and how many of us have felt like expressing ourselves to our neighbours as Jenny would by telling them to "F***k Off!"
During various parts of the meeting, members stated that it was good to hear the week's topic being worked as this was something that we had all drifted away from as well as "hot pens". There was a general feeling that this was something that should be reintroduced on a regular basis.
Ian C
Before the meeting started, there was general discussion on the length of items that should be read each week. The consensus was that because of the numbers attending the maximum length to be read should be 1200 words instead of 1800 as directed in the "Suggested Topics" handout. It was agreed that we would review this for May when the new handout would be issued.
Nik then advised there were new handouts dealing with competition news and guidelines which would be distributed at the interval. It was also suggested that the members should make more use of the blog to access information, post comments and display their writing.
Alan was the first to read with a piece on this weeks subject. The writing centered around an "imaginary" conversation between himself and wife Dorothy, although some members were of the opinion that it was between two males.
Rita, who was absent last week took its topic and read a "factional"item on a trip into the desert incorporating, the words pen,sunglasses and bluebells. This was a good reading using a personal experience to tell a story.
Jane then gave us a humourous poem about her disruptive neighbours.
Douglas took as his subject "What's In A Name". Initially, there were looks of concern as he read about defecation and toilets but the point of the piece was how we try to be inoffensive and "politically correct" and that a spade should be called--"a shovel?"
"Boring Neighbours" was the title of Chris's take on this week's topic. How often have the rest of us identified with the sentimets expressed.
Mary also used this week's topic for her poem but gave it a twist turning a negative aspect into a positive one.
Mary M read three short pieces the first being about us i.e. "The Writers' Circle". Second was a re-read of her poem about the dance and lastly an entertaining piece about a sex goddess whose assets had "gone south" and how she tried to rejuvenate herself. It was agreed that these were worthy of publication on the blog and Cynthia said that she would see that this was done.
Cynthia's "Bosses I Have Known" was a funny insight into a period of her working life spent in Hong Kong and the lengths to which employer went to save money, reduce costs etc. not only in his own work but also in the 25 storey building he shared with other occupants.
Glyn continued with his story of Ned and his first letters home to his family. The humour of this story continued as, depending upon the recipient, the differing methods of begging were exploited.
Christina's poem of her neighbour's intolerance was something we could all identify with but at least she gained a pair of slippers out of it!
Last, but by no means least, was Jenny's view of "The Couple Next Door" and how many of us have felt like expressing ourselves to our neighbours as Jenny would by telling them to "F***k Off!"
During various parts of the meeting, members stated that it was good to hear the week's topic being worked as this was something that we had all drifted away from as well as "hot pens". There was a general feeling that this was something that should be reintroduced on a regular basis.
Ian C
Thursday, 19 March 2009
Meeting 18th March2009
In Nik's absence, Rob was asked to take the chair. Chris notified apologies. Fifteen members were in attendance.
Before the meeting started, Glyn asked if he had offended anyone with his use of language in last week's episode of his story and should he miss out or "BLEEP" swear words. A discussion took place on what was deemed to be acceptable or not and the general consensus was that if it was a natural part of the story then this was OK, but if not, or details were "horribly graphic", then this should be omitted. Glyn then continued with his army story of Ned and the recruits seeking revenge. Again it was pointed out the the dialogue used was that of a bunch of squaddies.
Mary read out a poem entitled "War Correspondent" in which she incorporated this week's subject - using the words Pen, Sunglasses and Bluebells. The poem was most unusual and sentimental.
Brenda stated that she would wait until the end to see if there was time for her to read her piece as it was a story of 1860 words and she was aware that there was maximum limit of 1800 words for reading. This stimulated another discussion among the group on acceptable lengths of readings. It was agreed that this was a matter that now required re-examination due to the expansion in the numbers of the Circle.
Brian read another piece of his fisherman's story dealing with the launch of a vessel. After the reading he stated the he was not happy with it and asked for comments. Most of the comments were that perhaps he had dragged it out a bit with so much detail.
Ian's piece this week was a poem entitled "Wishes" and was a tragic tale of a little boy watching his friend succumb to malaria. Everyone seemed to be stunned by it or moved to tears. Ian advised that he had thought of it while watching Comic Relief.
Joy had two items to read. Yes that's right folks, TWO !!! The first was an item on memories and quite serious while the second was an funny poem about a shepherd and again incorporated this week's suggested topic.
Chris got all mixed up with dates and had composed a poem on one of last month's subjects "The Perfect Man". Her poem was entitled "No Such Thing". Well Chris, there are very few of us left!!
Alan started off his piece with what appeared to be an article on TV shows such as "Antiques Roadshow", "Flog It" etc, as it was called "The Apprentice Piece" and this was again another clever item which wove into the writing this week's subject.
Rob, most unusually for him, read a piece of fiction "Anyone for Tennis?". Everyone thought that it was good and made a number of suggestions to improve it. These included alternative paths to follow should he wish to expand the story.
Heinke told the sad tale of an individual coming to terms with the death of her dog. The story was told in a long, rambling, funny yet nostalgic poem which she had written some time ago and certainly brought a tear to one member's eye.
Brenda had time to read her short story of an old woman's return to Southend where she had spent her honeymoon and in particular the Pier which was destroyed in tragic circumstances for her.
Ian C
Before the meeting started, Glyn asked if he had offended anyone with his use of language in last week's episode of his story and should he miss out or "BLEEP" swear words. A discussion took place on what was deemed to be acceptable or not and the general consensus was that if it was a natural part of the story then this was OK, but if not, or details were "horribly graphic", then this should be omitted. Glyn then continued with his army story of Ned and the recruits seeking revenge. Again it was pointed out the the dialogue used was that of a bunch of squaddies.
Mary read out a poem entitled "War Correspondent" in which she incorporated this week's subject - using the words Pen, Sunglasses and Bluebells. The poem was most unusual and sentimental.
Brenda stated that she would wait until the end to see if there was time for her to read her piece as it was a story of 1860 words and she was aware that there was maximum limit of 1800 words for reading. This stimulated another discussion among the group on acceptable lengths of readings. It was agreed that this was a matter that now required re-examination due to the expansion in the numbers of the Circle.
Brian read another piece of his fisherman's story dealing with the launch of a vessel. After the reading he stated the he was not happy with it and asked for comments. Most of the comments were that perhaps he had dragged it out a bit with so much detail.
Ian's piece this week was a poem entitled "Wishes" and was a tragic tale of a little boy watching his friend succumb to malaria. Everyone seemed to be stunned by it or moved to tears. Ian advised that he had thought of it while watching Comic Relief.
Joy had two items to read. Yes that's right folks, TWO !!! The first was an item on memories and quite serious while the second was an funny poem about a shepherd and again incorporated this week's suggested topic.
Chris got all mixed up with dates and had composed a poem on one of last month's subjects "The Perfect Man". Her poem was entitled "No Such Thing". Well Chris, there are very few of us left!!
Alan started off his piece with what appeared to be an article on TV shows such as "Antiques Roadshow", "Flog It" etc, as it was called "The Apprentice Piece" and this was again another clever item which wove into the writing this week's subject.
Rob, most unusually for him, read a piece of fiction "Anyone for Tennis?". Everyone thought that it was good and made a number of suggestions to improve it. These included alternative paths to follow should he wish to expand the story.
Heinke told the sad tale of an individual coming to terms with the death of her dog. The story was told in a long, rambling, funny yet nostalgic poem which she had written some time ago and certainly brought a tear to one member's eye.
Brenda had time to read her short story of an old woman's return to Southend where she had spent her honeymoon and in particular the Pier which was destroyed in tragic circumstances for her.
Ian C
Thursday, 12 March 2009
Meeting 11th March 2009
17 Members attended and Rob took the chair to keep order (unsucessfully!!!)
Alan kicked off with a rewritten portion of his story about Max Roberts. The general consensus was that the new version had a better flow to it.
Geoff then followed with a hilarious account of a man falling out of a window. This was Geoff''s version of this week's subject of "The Outing".
Next was Mary M. with two short pieces. The first was a gentle story about hedgehogs and the second was a very funny poem entitled "The Dance" which had everybody in stitches.
Chris then gave us 6 versions of a six line verse for a 21st birthday card. These got progressively more gloomy and it was decided that they were more suitable for funeral cards than anything else.
An edited version of Joy's school memories was next. The members' attitude was that she should continue to have it published and several venues were suggested.
Ian was next with his version of the birthday card subject and then a poem about a family outing. As usual with all of his work there was a twist in the tale.
Brenda continued with her family saga of Belle and the diaries. There was confusion over which period in time we were at. There were some suggestions that the story should be moved on at a faster pace.
Mary explained how she had always wanted to be a "Wannabee" and had won a joke telling competition. Although she had nothing written she had in her head several limericks and treated us to a couple which she had composed.
Heinke asked for volunteers to review a play that she had written a number of years ago and distributed several copies. She asked for written reviews, comments and suggestions.
Last, but by no means least was Glyn with his continuing tale of the army recruit and his cross country run. There was not so much humour in this episode but the usual graphic descriptions and observations.
Ian C
Alan kicked off with a rewritten portion of his story about Max Roberts. The general consensus was that the new version had a better flow to it.
Geoff then followed with a hilarious account of a man falling out of a window. This was Geoff''s version of this week's subject of "The Outing".
Next was Mary M. with two short pieces. The first was a gentle story about hedgehogs and the second was a very funny poem entitled "The Dance" which had everybody in stitches.
Chris then gave us 6 versions of a six line verse for a 21st birthday card. These got progressively more gloomy and it was decided that they were more suitable for funeral cards than anything else.
An edited version of Joy's school memories was next. The members' attitude was that she should continue to have it published and several venues were suggested.
Ian was next with his version of the birthday card subject and then a poem about a family outing. As usual with all of his work there was a twist in the tale.
Brenda continued with her family saga of Belle and the diaries. There was confusion over which period in time we were at. There were some suggestions that the story should be moved on at a faster pace.
Mary explained how she had always wanted to be a "Wannabee" and had won a joke telling competition. Although she had nothing written she had in her head several limericks and treated us to a couple which she had composed.
Heinke asked for volunteers to review a play that she had written a number of years ago and distributed several copies. She asked for written reviews, comments and suggestions.
Last, but by no means least was Glyn with his continuing tale of the army recruit and his cross country run. There was not so much humour in this episode but the usual graphic descriptions and observations.
Ian C
Thursday, 5 March 2009
Meeting 4 March, 2009
Crammed today, twenty-four with apologies from two. Apologies for not mentioning apologies…I think… Pat started off with a humorous poem about Mary Lou who was 82 (see next posting); this got laughs and applause. As promised, Douglas was up next with a tale about a chap who was blinded in a shooting accident and met his Maker some time afterwards, ironically due to an act of God. Rita told us about her time in Tibet, creating many vivid images, the most provocative being those buffaloes who ‘went to the toilet’ next to the diners…
Jane gave us another of her splendid reminiscences of her time in France with husband Archie. This was a night at the opera with a difference, courtesy of a donkey with a mean will. Chris read out a piece about her visit to Granada in the company of Spanish pensionistas, encompassing her first time visiting the Alhambra – a photogenic place that you tend to return to time and again.
Ian read out his excellent poem based on the Jack Vettriano’s painting ‘The critical hour of 3am’. The picture above is from Lovers and Other Strangers, Paintings by Jack Vettriano (Pavilion books). Brian gave us the course of true love according to the machinations of two priests in late nineteenth century Torrevieja (which also happens to be printed in the March issue of The New Coastal Press - well done, Brian).
Brenda departed from her saga to present the first two chapters of another novel about the Tsunami disaster. Although it has some intriguing aspects, it does need more work.
Time ran out and we look forward to readings from Glyn, Alan, Mary K, Mary M and in due course Cynthia. Nik will be away next week: apologies.
Nik
Jane gave us another of her splendid reminiscences of her time in France with husband Archie. This was a night at the opera with a difference, courtesy of a donkey with a mean will. Chris read out a piece about her visit to Granada in the company of Spanish pensionistas, encompassing her first time visiting the Alhambra – a photogenic place that you tend to return to time and again.
Ian read out his excellent poem based on the Jack Vettriano’s painting ‘The critical hour of 3am’. The picture above is from Lovers and Other Strangers, Paintings by Jack Vettriano (Pavilion books). Brian gave us the course of true love according to the machinations of two priests in late nineteenth century Torrevieja (which also happens to be printed in the March issue of The New Coastal Press - well done, Brian).
Brenda departed from her saga to present the first two chapters of another novel about the Tsunami disaster. Although it has some intriguing aspects, it does need more work.
Time ran out and we look forward to readings from Glyn, Alan, Mary K, Mary M and in due course Cynthia. Nik will be away next week: apologies.
Nik
Saturday, 28 February 2009
Meeting of 25 February, 2009
Seventeen attendees, six apologies. Alan resumed his intriguing tale about a strange inheritance and left us all hanging, wanting more… next week. Ironically, an inheritance was the subject of Jane’s poem, about bickering over possessions – ‘When war broke out’, that is within the family, not on the international stage. Deadly war figured in Ann B’s factual account of her time in the middle east during the Iran-Iraq conflict. She was a secretary/driver and ‘facilitator’ for NBC: this would definitely make a very interesting article for a commercial magazine.
Ian returned with a piece from an earlier theme – ‘You did what?’ This was told in dialogue between two young girls and was hilarious, the characters seeping from the spoken word. Brian read the ending of his Rider Haggard entry, which was chilling and steeped in atmosphere; we wish him luck.
Brenda’s continuing saga slid back to the past with skill; however, the ravishing of the heroine perhaps requires more emotional context. Mary K gave us a tale through the eyes of a child, a ten-year-old. The fate of a fox hung in the balance; evoked memories of The Belstone Fox by David Rook. Jenny’s poem was excellent, with great pace, but the title needs to change else it’s given away…
Glyn continued his saga about recruitment in the Army. They’ve been introduced to PT – and it’s quite painful – that’s our laughter as well as the poor sod’s experiences. Again, little to comment on.
Time ran out so next week we’ll first hear from Douglas, Rita and Joy.
Nik
Ian returned with a piece from an earlier theme – ‘You did what?’ This was told in dialogue between two young girls and was hilarious, the characters seeping from the spoken word. Brian read the ending of his Rider Haggard entry, which was chilling and steeped in atmosphere; we wish him luck.
Brenda’s continuing saga slid back to the past with skill; however, the ravishing of the heroine perhaps requires more emotional context. Mary K gave us a tale through the eyes of a child, a ten-year-old. The fate of a fox hung in the balance; evoked memories of The Belstone Fox by David Rook. Jenny’s poem was excellent, with great pace, but the title needs to change else it’s given away…
Glyn continued his saga about recruitment in the Army. They’ve been introduced to PT – and it’s quite painful – that’s our laughter as well as the poor sod’s experiences. Again, little to comment on.
Time ran out so next week we’ll first hear from Douglas, Rita and Joy.
Nik
Thursday, 19 February 2009
Meeting 18 February 2009
Fifteen attended and we ran out of time for readings, which is no bad thing since it means that plenty of members had written work to offer for comment. I asked how many members were contemplating writing a novel (though I know of four) then briefly offered encouragement, using some quotations posted on the Black Horse Western yahoo group by writer Charlie Whipple. In short, you eat an elephant a mouthful at a time. A brief discussion on the structure of a novel ensued.
It was good to have Pat kicking off the readings; her character Jim’s nostalgic visit to the loft was poignant and touched the group: you can write, Pat, so don’t hold back! Jane gave us a sad piece about a mother lapsing into Alzheimer’s: well realised and deeply felt. Chris regaled us with a poem about the ‘perfect man’, incisive with biting wit. Mary K read out two poems, one entitled ‘Nobody’s perfect’ and the second about a Valentine with a twist. There followed a brief discussion about poetry and the modern tendency to opt out of rhyme, which most found regrettable. Bring back rhyming poetry was the clarion call!
Brenda continued with her saga about Belle, restricting this section to the modern day storyline, which most felt should be tightened up. Characters good as usual, however. Glyn returned to reading another sequence from his story of recruitment in the Army in the 1960s – which had everyone laughing; we were so wrapped up in the tale there was no feedback or constructive criticism!
Cynthia read a short item about the ‘perfect man’, concluding that such a creature would not be a good partner at all. Rob read another snippet about his Spanish mother-in-law – she won the lottery, she told him, explaining that as she was 86, she meant the lottery of ‘life’. Douglas ended by reading a short children’s story written by his late wife Jean, which was about cats and piglets whose tale deserves a home.
Alan’s continuing story about the inheritance will have to wait until next week.
Nik
It was good to have Pat kicking off the readings; her character Jim’s nostalgic visit to the loft was poignant and touched the group: you can write, Pat, so don’t hold back! Jane gave us a sad piece about a mother lapsing into Alzheimer’s: well realised and deeply felt. Chris regaled us with a poem about the ‘perfect man’, incisive with biting wit. Mary K read out two poems, one entitled ‘Nobody’s perfect’ and the second about a Valentine with a twist. There followed a brief discussion about poetry and the modern tendency to opt out of rhyme, which most found regrettable. Bring back rhyming poetry was the clarion call!
Brenda continued with her saga about Belle, restricting this section to the modern day storyline, which most felt should be tightened up. Characters good as usual, however. Glyn returned to reading another sequence from his story of recruitment in the Army in the 1960s – which had everyone laughing; we were so wrapped up in the tale there was no feedback or constructive criticism!
Cynthia read a short item about the ‘perfect man’, concluding that such a creature would not be a good partner at all. Rob read another snippet about his Spanish mother-in-law – she won the lottery, she told him, explaining that as she was 86, she meant the lottery of ‘life’. Douglas ended by reading a short children’s story written by his late wife Jean, which was about cats and piglets whose tale deserves a home.
Alan’s continuing story about the inheritance will have to wait until next week.
Nik
Wednesday, 11 February 2009
Meeting 11 February 2009
Still a good turnout – 12. I started by reading the beginning of my novel SNEEZE ON A THURSDAY and the private eye humour seemed to be appreciated. Mary K read out a humorous poem about a matchmaking mother, with a neat twist ending; this could make a good twist short story too. Mary M gave us a well-observed piece about a country post office and this too had a twist ending – quite chilling too. Polish and send this out, Mary!
Cynthia offered a delightful and greatly entertaining piece about ‘tea with me mammy’, an affectionate reminiscence of her time in Ireland. This too should be sent out. Glyn read the conclusion to his soldier’s tale set in Afghanistan: ‘Flight home from Kandaha’ – a well-realised tough uncompromising story which should perhaps be entered in a competition. A number of members are casting their eyes at competitions – good luck to all.
Brian read the early stages of his proposed competition entry to the Rider Haggard competition and everybody agreed that he had captured the tone and language of the period. Heinke is also considering entering a competition and the beginning of her children’s tale was enjoyed by all; it’s liable to give 6-7yr olds nightmares, just what they’ll love! Chris read out a below-1,000 word story which shone with little details and was moving; this too should be polished and sent out. Alan ended our session with an anti-religious Darwinian humorous item that is surely going to earn him his own little fatwa; several members asked him to continue with his intriguing short novel.
Nik
Cynthia offered a delightful and greatly entertaining piece about ‘tea with me mammy’, an affectionate reminiscence of her time in Ireland. This too should be sent out. Glyn read the conclusion to his soldier’s tale set in Afghanistan: ‘Flight home from Kandaha’ – a well-realised tough uncompromising story which should perhaps be entered in a competition. A number of members are casting their eyes at competitions – good luck to all.
Brian read the early stages of his proposed competition entry to the Rider Haggard competition and everybody agreed that he had captured the tone and language of the period. Heinke is also considering entering a competition and the beginning of her children’s tale was enjoyed by all; it’s liable to give 6-7yr olds nightmares, just what they’ll love! Chris read out a below-1,000 word story which shone with little details and was moving; this too should be polished and sent out. Alan ended our session with an anti-religious Darwinian humorous item that is surely going to earn him his own little fatwa; several members asked him to continue with his intriguing short novel.
Nik
Wednesday, 4 February 2009
Meeting of 4 February 2009
Today’s meeting was attended by twenty members and there were four guests. We started with readings from those who were unable to give us their offerings last week due to lack of time. Anne related a true hotel experience which evoked sympathy and amusement in equal measure. Chris regaled us with items about a meal and a robust querilous query, ‘Why did you ask me over?’ Joy chose to write a poem that reflects the sad state of Britain today regarding knife crime. Ian made us feel the cold and wet of a sea squall as fishermen fought back to their safe harbour; this definitely has to be sent out to a magazine. Cynthia amused us with a piece about friends who tend to leave a part of themselves behind after they leave – as if marking their territory. Mary M gave us a poem from a 74-year old who can still dream. Douglas created a complex character and unwound her story with great skill until the poignant end; again, this should be sent out to be read by a wider audience. Rita wrote some reminiscences of her volunteer work in Katmandu; if she can apply herself, there is scope for an enlightening and interesting book. Maureen closed the first half with her travel tale about China, ‘lost in translation’ which brought several smiles to the listeners.
One guest was Freda Lightfoot, author of over 40 short stories, 5 historical romances and 24 sagas for Hodder. Freda travelled with husband David from Almeria to listen to our speaker.
Penny Legg, accompanied by her diplomat and photographer husband Joe, gave us a talk on her life and her involvement with the Society of Women Writers and Journalists. She now edits the society’s magazine, The Woman Writer, published every ten weeks. Although she had written since childhood, Penny actually got into writing for money while following her other pursuit, amateur dramatics. From Brussels to Bangladesh, she combined writing and directing Amdram. As she pointed out, expat Brits around the world tend to congregate and raise money for charities and Amdram is one of many ways of achieving this, while giving pleasure to those performing and the audience too. Penny edited a glossy magazine in Anguilla in the West Indies but has now moved to Southampton as her base. Her message is multi-faceted: use your experiences to inform your writing wherever possible; be persistent; foster an interest in as many subjects as possible, again to broaden your scope and appeal. Networking certainly helps too and the greatest aid to doing this is through the internet and blogs.
The SWWJ was founded in 1894 and has had many distinguished females in its membership over the years; it now also accepts men as associate members. Their website is www.swwj.co.uk.
- Nik
One guest was Freda Lightfoot, author of over 40 short stories, 5 historical romances and 24 sagas for Hodder. Freda travelled with husband David from Almeria to listen to our speaker.
Penny Legg, accompanied by her diplomat and photographer husband Joe, gave us a talk on her life and her involvement with the Society of Women Writers and Journalists. She now edits the society’s magazine, The Woman Writer, published every ten weeks. Although she had written since childhood, Penny actually got into writing for money while following her other pursuit, amateur dramatics. From Brussels to Bangladesh, she combined writing and directing Amdram. As she pointed out, expat Brits around the world tend to congregate and raise money for charities and Amdram is one of many ways of achieving this, while giving pleasure to those performing and the audience too. Penny edited a glossy magazine in Anguilla in the West Indies but has now moved to Southampton as her base. Her message is multi-faceted: use your experiences to inform your writing wherever possible; be persistent; foster an interest in as many subjects as possible, again to broaden your scope and appeal. Networking certainly helps too and the greatest aid to doing this is through the internet and blogs.
The SWWJ was founded in 1894 and has had many distinguished females in its membership over the years; it now also accepts men as associate members. Their website is www.swwj.co.uk.
- Nik
Wednesday, 28 January 2009
Meeting of 28 January 2009
Another packed turnout – 22, including another new joiner. It was Pat’s birthday and Jane had baked a cake, which was delicious (no mention of the number of candles…). Happy birthday, Pat!
Brian kicked off with the dramatic conclusion of his story about Juan in the foreign legion; good description of scenes but would benefit from more character’s internal emotion. (Coincidentally for me, last night I watched Follow That Camel.)
Glad to report that Alan is here for 13 weeks during which time he hopes to progress his longest work; we were reacquainted with the characters and now await further developments next week. Jane gave us a bucolic scene from childhood – a veritable word picture, in water colours. Douglas captured the voice and mind of a criminal to good effect. Rita presented a true appraisal of two gay men adopting a girl in New York and this has potential in the magazine market to generate considerable debate.
Geoff has hit upon an intriguing idea. His short story was entitled 22 and it was hilarious. The idea? Possibly The Book of Numbers. A story revolving around each number up to 36 – the number of chapters in that book in the Bible. Just a thought.
I read out the beginning of my western Blind Justice and received some useful pointers. Glyn gave us the first half of his story about a soldier in Afghanistan, which promises to be brutal next week. Lastly, Rob gave us his article on Horace ‘Jim’ Greasley, the ex-POW author of Do the Birds Still Sing in Hell? Horace was 90 on Christmas Day 2008; an amazing man.
Unfortunately, time ran out so several neglected members will be first up for their readings next week.
- Nik
Brian kicked off with the dramatic conclusion of his story about Juan in the foreign legion; good description of scenes but would benefit from more character’s internal emotion. (Coincidentally for me, last night I watched Follow That Camel.)
Glad to report that Alan is here for 13 weeks during which time he hopes to progress his longest work; we were reacquainted with the characters and now await further developments next week. Jane gave us a bucolic scene from childhood – a veritable word picture, in water colours. Douglas captured the voice and mind of a criminal to good effect. Rita presented a true appraisal of two gay men adopting a girl in New York and this has potential in the magazine market to generate considerable debate.
Geoff has hit upon an intriguing idea. His short story was entitled 22 and it was hilarious. The idea? Possibly The Book of Numbers. A story revolving around each number up to 36 – the number of chapters in that book in the Bible. Just a thought.
I read out the beginning of my western Blind Justice and received some useful pointers. Glyn gave us the first half of his story about a soldier in Afghanistan, which promises to be brutal next week. Lastly, Rob gave us his article on Horace ‘Jim’ Greasley, the ex-POW author of Do the Birds Still Sing in Hell? Horace was 90 on Christmas Day 2008; an amazing man.
Unfortunately, time ran out so several neglected members will be first up for their readings next week.
- Nik
Thursday, 22 January 2009
Meeting of 21 January 2009
A packed meeting – 24, with two new members and in addition three guests. Ian wrote about the theme, a meal, with a clever and topical tale of today echoing something that happened 2,000 years ago. These eco terrorists called themselves FATE – Fight Against Temperature Extremes! Brenda lingered on her Hard Knocks novel with some excellent period description but will need to address the lack of dialogue. Glyn finished his short story with a grim and sad ending; his problem will be finding a market, though competitions might be the way to go. Geoff dropped in from UK again was burning to give us the wonders of toast. Christine read a topical and clever poem, inspired by the inauguration of Barack Obama the night before. Anne Flynn read her humourous 1,000 word piece, held over from last week, about a call centre. It was written in the vein of Bob Newhart and raised many a laugh and struck a few chords with the members.
Considering we only had half a session for readings, quite a bit of ground was covered. When time allows perhaps more members should offer comments on the shorter pieces read out; difficult, since there’s less material to take in, but I’m sure the writers would appreciate feedback.
The second half was devoted to the talk given by Liane Carter, whose passion for writing generated much interest and enthusiasm. Her mantra comprised several key words: persistence, discipline and self-belief. She offered top tips from her experience and her author interviewees. These days it’s also essential to network and get plenty of contacts and don’t be afraid to promote your work and yourself. While there’s no right or wrong way to write, Liane finds it easier to write in 20 minute spurts; 20 writing, 20 doing other things then back to writing for another 20 minutes. She emphasised, quite rightly, that self-editing is essential as is the ability to take and use criticism. Never give up and never be too precious about your words. At the close, Liane sold copies of her book ‘The Chronicles of Joya’, the first in a projected series of twelve.
Next week’s theme: The storm – or The river. Or anything else that’s been written, of course.
Thursday, 15 January 2009
Meeting of 14 January 2009
Eighteen members this week; and apologies from four.
Glyn began with a first for him, a short story (to be concluded next week); it brought out sympathy for the victim narrator and everyone thought it was a good piece of work and wanted to know what happens next. Douglas’s non-fiction story about his cat going missing and being found was well received; we all like happy endings! Mary K chose a risky (as opposed to risqué) piece about the week’s theme – risk. Brenda is still rewriting and working through her rivetting dual narrative novel and again keeps the language realistic (very!) for the two time periods. Brian is coming to the close of his long short story about Spain and Juan and his time in the foreign legion. Ian missed last week’s meeting but chose that week’s theme, The Street and evoked strong emotion with his poem about a down-and-out person. Phil visited us from UK and offered up a tense and suspenseful story about a boy and an old man with good imagery and vocabulary. Mary S read a ‘sort of limerick’ about trying harder to write this year, well received. Joy read her poem about trying not to be depressing in her poetry, by request of her sister, and succeeded. Jane gave us four lines, which was timely as we ran out of time!
We discussed the longer pieces and subjects touched upon were: visual writing, character point of view, word repetition, story internal logic and the senses, notably touch.
Next week’s theme: a meal described (fact or fiction) maximum 250 words, plus the talk by Liane Carter.
- Nik
Glyn began with a first for him, a short story (to be concluded next week); it brought out sympathy for the victim narrator and everyone thought it was a good piece of work and wanted to know what happens next. Douglas’s non-fiction story about his cat going missing and being found was well received; we all like happy endings! Mary K chose a risky (as opposed to risqué) piece about the week’s theme – risk. Brenda is still rewriting and working through her rivetting dual narrative novel and again keeps the language realistic (very!) for the two time periods. Brian is coming to the close of his long short story about Spain and Juan and his time in the foreign legion. Ian missed last week’s meeting but chose that week’s theme, The Street and evoked strong emotion with his poem about a down-and-out person. Phil visited us from UK and offered up a tense and suspenseful story about a boy and an old man with good imagery and vocabulary. Mary S read a ‘sort of limerick’ about trying harder to write this year, well received. Joy read her poem about trying not to be depressing in her poetry, by request of her sister, and succeeded. Jane gave us four lines, which was timely as we ran out of time!
We discussed the longer pieces and subjects touched upon were: visual writing, character point of view, word repetition, story internal logic and the senses, notably touch.
Next week’s theme: a meal described (fact or fiction) maximum 250 words, plus the talk by Liane Carter.
- Nik
Wednesday, 7 January 2009
Meeting of 7 January 2008
As usual, a well-attended and rewarding meeting. Sixteen members in all. The session kicked off with Maureen's insightful piece of observational writing about a dancer which evoked great sympathy. Then newcomer Mary read a clever poem about 'The Street' and followed it up with a delightful story about a young girl and a table-cloth; this should be honed and sent out to a magazine. Mary K read another of her amusing poems, about Christmas. Next we had the continuing saga of 'Hard Knocks' from Brenda; we almost feel as though we're living with her characters; the novel is not yet halfway through but the two voices of the characters, parted by many decades, are well defined. Jenny penned a sad poem about a homeless man - succinct but moving. Brian read from his work in progress about a murder and much more in Torrevieja. Ann gave us a rhyming account of her Christmas and Hogmanay while Chris read a moving poem about a lonely person over the festive season. Jane introduced us to another episode in her ongoing and interesting tales of rural France. Finally, Glyn had all of us in both humorous and sombre mood when reading from his opus about joining the Army in the 1960s. Well done, all!
- Nik, Chairman
(Author of Death at Bethesda Falls, Last Chance Saloon, Pain Wears No Mask, The Prague Manuscript)
- Nik, Chairman
(Author of Death at Bethesda Falls, Last Chance Saloon, Pain Wears No Mask, The Prague Manuscript)
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