Write-on

Our session this week will open with the popular Mug of the Month Competition. Members have submitted a text of maximum 50 words, including the given key words ECHO and HAVEN. After the presentation, members can vote for their favourite entry on their smartphones – the winner will be the proud holder of the Mug for the following four weeks. This time we have seven entries, and with the usual high standard, deciding who to select will not come easily!

Metamorphosis by Póilín Brennan is a poetic tribute to our Write-On Group, illustrating the transformative journey of creativity and community. Rich in symbolism and elemental imagery, the poem charts the process of artistic growth – from uncertainty and silence to expression, voice, and connection. Each stanza reflects a step in this evolution, much like a chrysalis unfolding into flight.

Brian’s Bank Balance by Anne Murray is a sharp and witty tale set in the world of banking – both financial and emotional. Brian is a creature of habit and caution, closely guarding his finances and living a life of routine. But one seemingly innocuous visit to the bank throws his predictable world into delightful disarray. The author explores how a single moment can shift one’s perspective on security, generosity and even the meaning of wealth itself.

The Day the Sea Turned Black by Anne Murray is a hauntingly poetic reflection on an environmental tragedy witnessed through the eyes of a child. Set against the backdrop of a once-vibrant seashore, the piece captures a moment when the familiar beauty of nature is marred by a creeping darkness, both literal and symbolic. Anne’s evocative language and deeply visual imagery draw the reader into a world where nature speaks in silence, and the consequences of human carelessness ripple across generations.Hair Today – Gone Tomorrow Deirdre Anne Gialamas

Hair Today – Gone Tomorrow by Deirdre Anne Gialamas is a witty, sharply observed tale that captures the social pressures and self-consciousness of adolescence through the lens of a simple haircut. When school picture day arrives, our young narrator is suddenly burdened with a disastrous fringe that triggers a cascade of self-doubt, internal drama, and desperate attempts to regain control over a rapidly unravelling situation. With humour and heart, the story explores themes of identity, image, and the quiet heroism it takes to face public scrutiny in the schoolyard.

Adam and Eve’s Breeze by Póilín Brennan is a lyrical and mystical meditation on land, memory, and ancestral wisdom. Set among the stone figures known as Adam and Eve in Saggart, the poem follows a mother and her children as they engage in a quiet, sacred ritual – asking permission from the land, offering water and gold, and listening to the whispers of wind and stone. Through rich imagery and Irish-language phrases, the poem evokes themes of spiritual connection, balance between the masculine and feminine, and the subtle power of intention. Myth, magic, and maternal love are woven into a timeless moment of reverence and joy.

Our discussion theme this evening encourages members to present a work that has a special meaning for them. The outcome of such moments is often a reverberation of similar feelings and the recalling of further evocative texts. In such discussions, the true feeling of community within our group finds its ideal manifestation.

This Thursday, you can expect a selection of absorbing new texts, the agony of having to decide who to vote for in a list of equally excellent offerings, and the revelations generated by the discussion of works chosen for their personal meaning in the life of the presenter.

Look forward to yet another varied, unusual and inspiring session on Write-On!

Programme

Competition Mug of the Month 7 Entries

Poem Metamorphosis Poilin Brennan

Poem The Day the Sea Turned Black Anne Murray

Poem Adam and Eve’s Breeze Póilín Brennan

Short Story Brian’s Bank Balance Anne Murray

Short Story Hair Today – Gone Tomorrow Deirdre Anne Gialamas

Discussion Can you present a favourite or interesting story for discussion? All Members

Discussion Latest developments in the world of AI All Members

A Memorable Flight by Joyce Butcher
On a long-haul flight from Singapore to London, Jean is charmed to have an entertaining neighbour, an elderly gentleman with captivating stories of his adventures as an actor and theatre director. She is entranced by his encounters with stars like Shirley Temple and Cary Grant, and the journey passes swiftly. All the greater is her surprise at what she learns about her travelling companion after landing. Join us for this intriguing tale which lifts the veil between past and present, the natural and the supernatural.

Shackleton and I by Jutta Rosen
Jutta Rosen’s memoir, ‘Shackleton and I,’ takes readers on a remarkable journey that connects her to the legendary Antarctic explorer Ernest Shackleton. During a visit to
her godchild Mary’s home, she discovers a small rock with an inscription—brought back from Elephant Island by Shackleton himself. Intrigued, she unravels the rock’s incredible journey from Shackleton’s possession to her godchild’s bookshelf. The memoir masterfully weaves historical details of Shackleton’s harrowing Antarctic survival with personal reflections on fate, history, and the small, unexpected connections that bind us to the past.

Full Circle by Mary Rose Tobin
Mary Rose’s short story examines the complexities of family relationships, responsibility and redemption. When a casual friendship results in an unwelcome pregnancy, James avoids accountability and moves on. Decades later, his own unmarried daughter becomes a parent, and James’s unredeemed past confronts him at last. Rich in emotional resonance and beautifully crafted, the story poignantly illustrates how life’s lessons can return, guiding us gently but inevitably full circle.

On the Eleven Thirty to Dublin by Anne McManus
Anne McManus’ short story, ‘On the Eleven Thirty to Dublin,’ is a sharp, humorous, and vividly written piece that captures the essence of public transport eavesdropping.
The story follows a lively and unfiltered conversation on a train, where a woman loudly shares her grievances, medical experiences, and juicy gossip with a friend over the
phone. As the monologue unfolds, passengers unwittingly become part of her life, absorbing her frustrations, judgments, and sharp-tongued wit. Through rich dialect and
keen observation, McManus delivers a brilliant social commentary that feels both familiar and hilariously uncomfortable.

Near Death by Deirdre Anne Gialamas
A crowded beach with family parties enjoying the seaside fun, oblivious lifeguards, barbecues – and a solitary, struggling swimmer. Isolation and fear in the midst of a carefree world – Deirdre’s powerful poem challenges readers to reflect on the fragility of existence and the unseen struggles around us.

Resurrection by Anne McManus
Anne McManus’ poem, ‘Resurrection,’ delivers a witty and irreverent reimagining of the biblical tale of Lazarus. The narrator, newly arrived in heaven and enjoying his
peaceful eternity, is suddenly yanked back to life—only to find himself once again at the mercy of his nagging sisters and the burdens of earthly existence. With humor and
sharp commentary, McManus turns a miraculous event into a tongue-in-cheek reflection on fate, unwanted second chances, and the weight of divine intervention.

Prayer to a Fixed Washing Machine by Póilín Brennan
Póilín Brennan’s whimsical poem morphs the drudgery of doing the laundry with the rhythmic cadences of traditional prayer. The washing machine’s restoration takes on divine significance, celebrated with reverence and relief. An unusual and affectionare tribute to finding gratitude, wonder, and even a touch of the sacred amidst everyday routines.

A Mother’s Gift by Mary Hodson

Mary Hodson’s heartfelt poem tenderly celebrates the enduring love and unwavering strength of motherhood. Through vivid, intimate imagery, the poet reflects on the various stages of childhood and growing up, nurtured and guided by maternal love that shapes, supports and sustains us all throughout life.

This Thursday we hope to welcome Joyce Butcher from Australia LIVE in our Zoom headquarters in Galway! And Saturday 22 March, at 3.30pm sees the Book Launch of John Hodson’s volume of poetry and drawings at the Clydaun Hotel. This event is open to the public, and we expect a large crowd!

Finally, don’t forget to send in your entry for our Mug of the Month contest, with the key words ECHO and HAVEN. Entries should reach annemurraypost@yahoo.ie by Sunday, 23 March at the latest.

See you all on Thursday!

Programme

Short Story A Memorable Flight Joyce Butcher

Short Story Shackleton and I Jutta Rosen

Short Story Full Circle Mary Rose Tobin

Short Story On the Eleven Thirty to Dublin Anne McManus

Poem Near Death Deirdre Anne Gialamas

Poem Resurrection Anne McManus

Poem Prayer to a Fixed Washing Machine Póilín Brennan

Poem A Mother’s Gift Mary Hodson

Resurrection by Anne McManus
Anne McManus’ poem, ‘Resurrection,’ delivers a witty and irreverent reimagining of the biblical tale of Lazarus. The narrator, newly arrived in heaven and enjoying his
peaceful eternity, is suddenly yanked back to life—only to find himself once again at the mercy of his nagging sisters and the burdens of earthly existence. With humor and
sharp commentary, McManus turns a miraculous event into a tongue-in-cheek reflection on fate, unwanted second chances, and the weight of divine intervention.

Open the Window by Mary Hodson
Mary Hodson’s poem, ‘Open the Window,’ is a deeply moving exploration of Irish funeral customs and the rituals surrounding death. Steeped in tradition, the poem follows
the practice of opening a window to let the departing soul pass freely. With delicate yet powerful verses, Hodson captures the sacred hush, the stopped clocks, the veiled
mirrors, and the whispered prayers that accompany a loved one’s passing. This poignant reflection on loss, remembrance, and the enduring customs of grief speaks to the
universal experience of saying goodbye, while honoring the ties that keep our ancestors’ traditions alive.

The Jumper by Mary Hodson
Mary Hodson’s memoir, ‘The Jumper,’ is a heartwarming story of love, tradition, and perseverance. Beginning in 1983 with the intention of knitting a school jumper for her
child, the project remained unfinished for over 40 years, tucked away in the depths of a wardrobe. The memoir takes readers on a journey through time, exploring the deep-
rooted Irish knitting traditions, the symbolism behind Aran patterns, and the patience and dedication required to complete such an intricate piece. When Mary joins a local
knitting group in 2024, the long-lost jumper finds new life, ultimately becoming a family heirloom. Rich with nostalgia and warmth, this tale beautifully weaves together
family, craftsmanship, and the passage of time.

Song of Peace and Tranquility by Mary Hawkshaw
In a world burdened by conflict and uncertainty, Mary Hawkshaw’s CAPCUT creation, ‘Song of Peace and Tranquility,’ emerges as a soothing balm for the soul. With her expertise in digital storytelling and music production, she crafts a serene and meditative composition that invites us to pause, breathe, and reflect. This piece offers a glimpse into a world where kindness, humanity, and harmony reign, even if only for a few moments. It stands as a gentle yet powerful reminder that peace is always within reach— if only we choose to embrace it.

On the Eleven Thirty to Dublin by Anne McManus
Anne McManus’ short story, ‘On the Eleven Thirty to Dublin,’ is a sharp, humorous, and vividly written piece that captures the essence of public transport eavesdropping.
The story follows a lively and unfiltered conversation on a train, where a woman loudly shares her grievances, medical experiences, and juicy gossip with a friend over the
phone. As the monologue unfolds, passengers unwittingly become part of her life, absorbing her frustrations, judgments, and sharp-tongued wit. Through rich dialect and
keen observation, McManus delivers a brilliant social commentary that feels both familiar and hilariously uncomfortable.

And I remember too by Veronica O’Neill
Veronica O’Neill’s poem, ‘And I remember too,’ is a nostalgic reflection on childhood and growing up. Through vivid imagery, she captures the mundane yet deeply personal
details of school life—ironing uniforms, mismatched socks, and the struggle to keep up with growing bodies. The poem moves seamlessly through memories of sports, school struggles, and the hunger of youth, painting a relatable picture of the past that resonates with warmth, humor, and the enduring presence of a mother’s quiet patience. This touching piece invites readers to step back in time and revisit their own childhood moments.

Shackleton and I by Jutta Rosen
Jutta Rosen’s memoir, ‘Shackleton and I,’ takes readers on a remarkable journey that connects her to the legendary Antarctic explorer Ernest Shackleton. During a visit to
her godchild Mary’s home, she discovers a small rock with an inscription—brought back from Elephant Island by Shackleton himself. Intrigued, she unravels the rock’s incredible journey from Shackleton’s possession to her godchild’s bookshelf. The memoir masterfully weaves historical details of Shackleton’s harrowing Antarctic survival with personal reflections on fate, history, and the small, unexpected connections that bind us to the past. Rich in historical insight and personal narrative, this story bridges generations through adventure and discovery.

A Stitch in Sin by Anne Murray
‘A Stitch in Sin’ is a humorous and reflective poem by Anne Murray that revisits an old superstition from her grandmother—that sewing on a Sunday is a sin, leading to an
afterlife of unpicking stitches with one’s nose. The narrator wittily debates the merits of giving up sewing versus investing in a nose job to prepare for the eternal consequences. Balancing playful irreverence with a deeper contemplation of traditions and faith, this poem is a clever take on inherited beliefs and the weight we give them in our daily lives.

Mind Your Head by Deirdre Anne Gialamas
‘Mind Your Head’ by Deirdre Anne Gialamas is a lighthearted yet thought-provoking poem about the small, everyday decisions we make. The narrator wrestles with the
never-ending cycle of household chores—dirty dishes, unkempt duvets, and messy cupboards—before questioning whether the world would truly stop if they chose to
pause and indulge in moments of idleness. As they embrace the freedom of relaxation, they find joy in memories, music, and creativity, reminding us all of the importance
of stepping back and appreciating life beyond the mundane.

We can expect a full and exciting evening of creative work.

And don’t forget: Mug of the Month is starting anew, with the key words ECHO and HAVEN. Entries should reach annemurraypost@yahoo.ie by Sunday, 23 March at the latest.

See you all on Thursday!

Programme

Poem Resurrection Anne McManus

Poem Open the Window Mary Hodson

Memoir The Jumper Mary Hodson

Song and Video Song of Peace and Tranquility Mary Hawkshaw

Short Story On the Eleven Thirty to Dublin Anne McManus

Poem And I remember Too Veronica O’Neill

Short Story Shackleton and I Jutta Rosen

Poem A Stich in Sin Anne Murray

Poem Mind your Head Deirdre Anne Gialamas

Tradition dictates that the last Thursday session in every month opens with the presentation of the entries for Mug of the Month, and this week is no exception. The key words SHELTER and SHADOW have attracted numerous texts of various genres, and as usual tension will vie with enjoyment until the winner has been elected!

The following four items were originally scheduled for last week. We look forward to hearing them tonight!

The White Cliffs of Dover by Mary Hodson is a deeply moving family memoir that follows a pilgrimage to Belgium to visit the grave of a relative who died in the Battle of Ypres in 1917. As the family retrace his journey, the narrative captures the weight of loss, remembrance, and the importance of passing down these stories to future generations.

Threading Time by Deirdre Anne Gialamas is a meditation on the passage of time and its impact on the human experience. The piece weaves through memories, contrasting fleeting moments of joy with the weight of nostalgia.

A Short Poem by Joyce Butcher is a playful but perceptive piece exploring the complexities of language, self-expression and regret. With clever wordplay and rhythmic flow, the poem captures the internal struggle between speaking freely and wishing for restraint. Both humorous and reflective, it highlights the tension between spontaneity and hindsight, reminding us of the power – and pitfalls – of our words.

Resurrection by Anne McManus is a sharp, darkly humorous poem that reimagines the experience of being raised from the dead – only to face the burden of life once more. The narrator, who has found peace in the afterlife, is suddenly pulled back, not for divine glory, but to pacify the mourning of others. With biting wit and a sense of weary resignation, the poem explores themes of duty, fate, and the unintended consequences of miracles. In a world where resurrection is no blessing, the speaker questions whether peace can ever truly be eternal.

When Nations Weep by Mary Hawkshaw is a powerful song and video production reflecting the timeless struggle for freedom from tyranny, dictatorship and colonial rule. Through the lens of Ireland’s fight for independence, the writer draws poignant parallels to the ongoing war in Ukraine, the latest example of the universal quest for self-determination.

We wish all participants a thoroughly enjoyable evening!

Programme

Competition +++ Mug of the Month +++ All Members

Memoir The White Cliffs of Dover Mary Hodson

Short Story Threading Time Deirdre Anne Gialamas

Poem A Short Poem Joyce Butcher

Poem Resurrection Anne McManus

Video Production When Nations Weep Mary Hawkshaw

Our programme this evening is comprised mainly of texts that were scheduled, but not presented, in the past few weeks. Our prolific members have inundated us with wonderful submissions, so that we can look forward to another 120 minutes of fascinating story-telling and poetry.

The Sunday Visit by Mary Hodson is a delightful memoir of pleasant childhood visits to the farm of loved relatives. The story captures the resonance between the innocent child and the caring grandfather in an environment of nature, family and tradition.

The White Cliffs of Dover by Mary Hodson is a deeply moving family memoir that follows a pilgrimage to Belgium to visit the grave of a relative who died in the Battle of Ypres in 1917. As the family retrace his journey, the narrative captures the weight of loss, remembrance, and the importance of passing down these stories to future generations.

Vertical Ridges by Jutta Rosen contrasts the abundance and comfort of life today with the rigours of the Famine in the 1840s. The desperate and backbreaking efforts to provide food are visible to this day on the hillsides of Connemara, for those who know what to look for.

They by Póilín Brennan is an enigmatic poem which examines the unseen influences that shape our lives. The poem explores an omnipresent force, leaving the reader to interpret who or what ‘they’ represent, while imparting a sense of unease and reflection.

A Short Poem by Joyce Butcher is a playful but perceptive piece exploring the complexities of language, self-expression and regret. With clever wordplay and rhythmic flow, the poem captures the internal struggle between speaking freely and wishing for restraint. Both humorous and reflective, it highlights the tension between spontaneity and hindsight, reminding us of the power – and pitfalls – of our words.

Threading Time by Deirdre Anne Gialamas is a meditation on the passage of time and its impact on the human experience. The piece weaves through memories, contrasting fleeting moments of joy with the weight of nostalgia.

Resurrection by Anne McManus is a sharp, darkly humorous poem that reimagines the experience of being raised from the dead – only to face the burden of life once more. The narrator, who has found peace in the afterlife, is suddenly pulled back, not for divine glory, but to pacify the mourning of others. With biting wit and a sense of weary resignation, the poem explores themes of duty, fate, and the unintended consequences of miracles. In a world where resurrection is no blessing, the speaker questions whether peace can ever truly be eternal.

And don’t forget! The closing date for entries to our monthly Mug of the Month competition is drawing nigh! The key words to be included in your fifty-word submission are SHADOW and SHELTER. Anne Murray, at annemurraypost@yahoo.ie is expecting your entries by Sunday 23 February at the latest! That’s the coming Sunday!!!!

We wish all participants a thoroughly enjoyable evening!

Programme

Short Story The Sunday Visit Mary Hodson

Memoir The White Cliffs of Dover Mary Hodson

Poem They Póilín Brennan

Short Story Threading Time Deirdre Anne Gialamas

Short Story Vertical Ridges Jutta Rosen

Poem A Short Poem Joyce Butcher

Poem Resurrection Anne McManus

Our programme this evening is dedicated to short stories and poems, with a memoir, a video and a travelogue thrown in for good measure! Again, we can look forward to being impressed and beguiled by the variety and skill of our talented contributors.

The Boy by James Conway brings the reader into a compelling, misty past, in which a young boy, on a fishing holiday with his father, experiences the first tentative stirrings of adolescence. The mysterious disappearance of a child leads to rumours, legends and misunderstandings in the local history, all remembered by him many decades later.

The Leaving of the House by Eileen Miller contrasts hospitality conventions in the US and at home. The departure of loved ones is also shown as the leaving of the house, transporting the reader into an aura of changing atmospheres in a sensitive and moving text.

The Sunday Visit by Mary Hodson is a delightful memoir of pleasant childhood visits to the farm of loved relatives. The story captures the resonance between the innocent child and the caring grandfather in an environment of nature, family and tradition.

The White Cliffs of Dover by Mary Hodson is a deeply moving family memoir that follows a pilgrimage to Belgium to visit the grave of a relative who died in the Battle of Ypres in 1917. As the family retrace his journey, the narrative captures the weight of loss, remembrance, and the importance of passing down these stories to future generations.

Meeting Mary by Veronica O’Neill is an exploration of an unexpected encounter. Beautifully written, with unexpected twists and turns, we see a bond form between two sensitive ladies who have experienced life and are still looking forward.

They by Póilín Brennan is an enigmatic poem which examines the unseen influences that shape our lives. The poem explores an omnipresent force, leaving the reader to interpret who or what ‘they’ represent, while imparting a sense of unease and reflection.

Threading Time by Deirdre Anne Gialamas is a meditation on the passage of time and its impact on the human experience. The piece weaves through memories, contrasting fleeting moments of joy with the weight of nostalgia.

Two Weeks in Japan by Joyce Butcher takes us on a whirlwind tour of a land both exotic and modern. Descriptions of the beauties of nature, the sobering history of Hiroshima, and quixotic public signs form a text full of interest, reflection and humour.

Vertical Ridges by Jutta Rosen contrasts the abundance and comfort of life today with the rigours of the Famine in the 1840s. The desperate and backbreaking efforts to provide food are visible to this day on the hillsides of Connemara, for those who know what to look for.

My Two Lambs by Deirdre Anne Gialamas is a deeply personal poem dedicated to two beloved figures. Displaying rich, dynamic language, the poem expresses love and a sense of spiritual connection, even as time and distance separate them.

Nora’s Decision by Mary Hawkshaw spins the tale of Mary’s reaction to an unexpected letter, which helps her to change her self-awareness. In a masterly unfolding of her emotions, the listener is guided to a powerful, unexpected finale. The sensitive story is embedded in moving and dramatic video images which were also created by the author.

Two Poems from John Hodson’s Poetry Book showcase the poet’s sharp wit and keen observation of life. Together they offer a compelling glimpse into a unique poetic voice that was waiting to be discovered.

With such a full programme, some items might be postoned for presentation next week. We wish all participants a thoroughly enjoyable evening!

Programme

Short Story The Boy James Conway

Short Story The Leaving of the House Eileen Miller

Short Story/Video Nora’s Decision Mary Hawkshaw

Short Story The Sunday Visit Mary Hodson

Memoir The White Cliffs of Dover Mary Hodson

Short Story Meeting Mary Veronica O’Neill

Poem They Póilín Brennan

Short Story Threading Time Deirdre Anne Gialamas

Travelogue Two Weeks in Japan Joyce Butcher

Short Story Vertical Ridges Jutta Rosen

Poem My Two Lambs Deirdre Anne Gialamas

Poem Two poems from John Hodson’s Poetry Book John Hodson

Sunday Visit by Mary Hodson is a delightful memoir of pleasant childhood visits to the farm of loved relatives. The story captures the resonance between the innocent child and the caring grandfather in an environment of nature, family and tradition.

A State of Primal Therapy by Póilín Brennan explores the raw, unfiltered emotions of anger and pain passed through generations. With vivid imagery, this poem delves into buried trauma, unresolved chaos, and the eventual release of long-held injustices.

In Chapter 3 of A Normal Couple 2 by Olga Peters, Fra is adjusting to her new reality as a widow in wartime Berlin. While struggling with the economics of pensions and ration cards, recurring dreams of her husband offer both solace and unsettling questions.

With such a full programme, some items might be postoned for presentation next week. We wish all participants a thoroughly enjoyable evening!

Programme

MOTM Competition +++ 11 Entries +++ All Members

Discussion Postscript by Seamus Heaney All Members

Short Story Sunday Visit Mary Hodson

Poem A State of Primal Therapy Póilín Brennan

Novel Extract A Normal Couple 2, Ch. 3 Olga Peters

Story/Video Nora’s Decision Part 1 Mary Hawkshaw

As usual, the last Thursday of the month is reserved for our Mug of the Month Competition. This week we’ll hear ten entries containing the key words COURT and SETTLE. The multiple meanings of these words should lead to a wide variety of inspired interpretations!

Last week’s discussion of Postscript by Seamus Heaney is being continued. We hope to learn from the poet’s masterly use of imagery, rhythm and association.

Mind Movies by Frances Dermody presents the intriguing evolution of an inhibited middle-aged man who begins to escape the grasp of his domineering mother and his own inner dreams, and instead to enter the real world.

Sunday Visit by Mary Hodson is a delightful memoir of pleasant childhood visits to the farm of loved relatives. The story captures the resonance between the innocent child and the caring grandfather in an environment of nature, family and tradition.

In Souls by James Conway, the nature of Dublin Bay becomes alive as spirits return to their earthly shores. Vivid descriptions of nature and spectral imagery serve to explore mortality, memory and the quiet collision between the spiritual and modern worlds.

Two Weeks in Japan by Joyce Butcher takes us on a whirlwind tour of a land both exotic and modern. Descriptions of the beauties of nature, the sobering history of Hiroshima, and quixotic public signs form a text full of interest, reflection and humour.

A State of Primal Therapy by Póilín Brennan explores the raw, unfiltered emotions of anger and pain passed through generations. With vivid imagery, this poem delves into buried trauma, unresolved chaos, and the eventual release of long-held injustices.

Resurrection by Anne McManus presents a humorous account of life after death. Resurrected to appease mourning sisters, the narrator questions the fairness and purpose of divine intervention even after death.

In Chapter 3 of A Normal Couple 2 by Olga Peters, Fra is adjusting to her new reality as a widow in wartime Berlin. While struggling with the economics of pensions and ration cards, recurring dreams of her husband offer both solace and unsettling questions.

With such a full programme, some items might be postoned for presentation next week. We wish all participants a thoroughly enjoyable evening!

Programme

MOTM Competition +++ 10 Entries +++ All Members

Discussion Postscript by Seamus Heaney All Members

Short Story Mind Movies Frances Dermody

Short Story Sunday Visit Mary Hodson

Short Story Souls James Conway

Short Story Two Weeks in Japan Joyce Butcher

Poem A State of Primal Therapy Póilín Brennan

Poem Resurrection Anne McManus

Novel Extract A Normal Couple 2, Ch. 3 Olga Peters

Story A New Story Mary Hawkshaw

Once again, our Programme offers an amazing variety of styles, topics and moods; what unites them all is the high standard of the writing!

Veronica O’Neill’s unusual short story Sleeping Bag develops into an exquisite sequence of emotions: warmhearted childhood memories, drama, tension, with a hint of humour, and finally resignation lasting into adulthood and beyond. Don’t miss this gem of a story!

Mary Hodson’s two short stories also evolve from childhood memories. The Station touchingly recalls the time-honoured tradition of station masses, which provided an intersection of religious ceremony and social get-together. Sunday Visit mirrors the happy memories of special days spent on Granda’s farm, a text that comes alive through short comments and remarks typical for each occasion.

Deirdre Anne Gialamas’s impressive poem Orphans immerses us in man’s passage through birth into a labyrinthine world, to the revelation of moments of wonder in our surroundings and the magic of universal community. A complex text which, nevertheless, everyone can relate to.

Once again, Mary Hawkshaw has created images of great beauty, this time to illustrate her poem of the same title, Beauty. A video which one wishes would never end!

What can we learn from the great master, Seamus Heaney? His poem Postscript opens us to the transience of natural beauty, moments which cannot be grasped but which nonetheless move us deeply. Which are the key words and phrases that endow this poem with such power?

Finally, our Anthology 2026 – the collection of the best submissions in 2024/2025 – is in the making and warrants some organisation and planning.

And don’t forget! The closing date for Mug of the Month entries is looming: Sunday, 26 January! Be sure to send your texts of no more than 48 words plus a form of the key words COURT and SETTLE to annemurraypost@yahoo.ie before then! As usual, all entries will be read on the last Thursday of the month.

We wish all viewers and visitors a rewarding and stimulating evening!

Programme:

Short Story Sleeping Bag Veronica O’Neill

Short Story The Station Mary Hodson

Short Story Sunday Visit Mary Hodson

Poem Orphans Deirdre Anne Gialamas

Poem/Video Beauty Mary Hawkshaw

Discussion Postscript by Seamus Heaney All Members

Discussion Anthology 2026 and other Publishing Plans All Members

Short stories by our members dominate in this evening’s session.

Frank Fahy‘s brand new tale, ‘In Confidence’, confronts us with a snippet of real life, encapsulated in time and space to produce a text of extreme and unusual intensity. Frank is looking forward to members’ reactions to his story!

Life on the farm in bygone times have frequently inspired Mary Hodson. Her clear and detailed tales document forgotten rituals and traditions, which are presented in an empathetic manner that everyone can relate to. We look forward to hearing about ‘The Station’, which will revive pleasant memories in our older listeners.

Deirdre Anne Gialamas‘s versatility is demonstrated in the two stories being presented tonight. In ‘Pay the Lady’ , we can relive the excitement of our first paid job in the adult world. By contrast, ‘Strolling Towards Yesterday and Tomorrow’ transports us to Athens, specifically to the stunning Acropolis Museum, a modern structure housing magnificent artefacts that are thousands of years old.

Elizabeth Hannon‘s inspiration often derives from her immediate family, and in this evening’s poem she introduces us to Aunt Tess, a lady whose warm-heartedness and generosity was cherished, never to be forgotten by her whole family.The tiny details of Aunt Tess’s many activities give this poem a special sparkle.

The genres presented in our sessions have been expanded by a new literary art form, thanks to Mary Hawkshaw. A newcomer to computer technology and AI, Mary quickly excelled in implementing these novel possibilities. Tonight’s video ‘The Circle of Life’ includes text, music and moving images, demonstrating her ability as a writer and her expertise with the new technologies. Congratulations, Mary!

Finally, we expect an open discussion of the group’s publishing plans this year. Past years have seen the annual publication of our Anthology, as well as two volumes by individual members containing their collected poems, short stories, or a novel. A wonderful reward and honour for the members chosen, and an encouragement to all others to produce, practice, create, and write, write, write!

Have an enjoyable and stimulating evening on Thursday!

PS: Don’t forget to enter your text for our monthly Mug of the Month competition (MOTM). Write a maximum of fifty words in any genre containing the two given words, this month: SETTLE and COURT. Then send your work to annemurraypost@yahoo.ie. Closing date: 26 January 2025.

Don’t miss your chance – YOU could be the next proud holder of our precious Mug!

Programme:

Short Story In Confidence Frank Fahy

Short Story The Station Mary Hodson

Short Story Pay the Lady Deirdre Anne Gialamas

Short Story Strolling Towards Yesterday and Tomorrow Deirdre Anne Gialamas

Poem Aunt Tess Elizabeth Hannon

Video The Circle of Life Mary Hawkshaw

Discussion Publishing Plans for 2025 All Members