Another Thursday evening of inspiring and impressive works by our Write-On members is approaching! This time we welcome a new member, who has submitted an exciting short story, full of unspoken emotions, culminating in the diverse nuances behind the little word ‘soon’. Welcome, Clare O’Malley – we’re delighted to have you with us!
Originally scheduled for last week’s meeting, Mary Hodson’s account of Jack: ‘So, the Story Goes’ introduces us to a neighbour in her childhood, well-loved by all. Mary paints a touching, warm-hearted tribute and calls up a host of memories that not only she but also her readers might or might not have experienced themselves.
In ‘Yossi’s Story, Part 1’, by Frank Fahy, a young man embarks on a new life in a rough Irish fishing community, far removed from his ancestral home. There are hints of a past of hope and anguish in further episodes of this moving tale.
Seamus Keogh’s ‘A Hollow Heart’ is a poignant glimpse of opportunities offered and lost, the result of a chance encounter between old friends whose lives have developed along radically different lines.
Two poems by poet Thomas MacMahon round off our list of entries for this evening. Thomas’s poems are gentle and heart-warming, appealing to the kinder side of human nature. ‘Venice’ brings us to the romance of this picturesque city, while ‘White Roses’ strives for hope amidst the chaos of the war in Gaza.
Time permitting, our members are called upon to study and discuss Seamus Heaney’s well-known poem ‘Postscript’. What can we learn from an analysis of its language, imagery and structure that will influence our own efforts?
Mary Rose Tobin was the clear winner of last week’s Mug of the Month competition with her entry ‘Samhain’s Echo’. Luckily, she is not allowed to compete in the next contest! Closing date for entries is 20 October 2024; send them to annemurraypost@yahoo.ie, and make sure your maximum of 50 words includes a form ‘PLAY’ and ‘TURN’. Good luck!
Programme
Short Story You’ll figure it out Clare O’Malley
Short Story So the Story Goes Mary Hodson
Short Story Yossi’s Story (Part 1) Frank Fahy
Short Story A Hollow Heart Seamus Keogh
Poem White Roses Thomas MacMahon
Poem Venice Thomas MacMahon
Discussion ‘Postscript’ by Seamus Heaney All Members