After last week’s excitement of the cinema performance of our video for Culture Night 2024, as well as the launch itself – including a dedication by the President of Ireland personally – , it’s back to business this week. We have a collection of stories and a poem to offer, and, time allowing, discussions on two masterworks of the art by famous established writers.

Frank Fahy‘s stories generally focus on the human element and man’s struggle with the challenges thrown up by life. However, the title of tonight’s presentation alone indicates a tale with a lighter and more humorous touch.

Mary Hodson is establishing a collection of intimate memoirs showing traditions and rites of the Irish countryside which have been lost in the country’s surge into the twenty-first century. ‘The Ritual’ presents a detailed account of the daily saying of the Rosary, a custom gradually nudged aside by the appearance of TV and ‘The Riordans’.

Mary’s story ‘The Fence’, on the other hand, relates a whimsical encounter which might still be witnessed in the depths of Connemara or Kerry!

Josephine McCann‘s poem reflects on modern life and how our culture and attitudes have shifted in the year 2024. It’s a contemplative look at the present, examining both the changes and challenges of our times.

Raymond Carver‘s sparse story and Seamus Heaney‘s unique glimpse of the wonders of nature provide material for our members to learn from the great masters.

We welcome everyone to another session of inspiring, creative and enjoyable listening as well as lively discussions!

PS: Don’t forget to enter your text for the monthly Mug of the Month competition: a maximum of 50 words including a form of the words LIVE and TREAT. The deadline for entries is Sunday 29 September. Send to annemurraypost@yahoo.ie

Programme

Short Story Aunt Nora and Dangerous Dan Frank Fahy

Short Story The Ritual Mary Hodson

Short Story The Fence Mary Hodson

Poem The Now of 2024 Josephine McCann

Bonus Material Discussion re ‘Why Don’t We Dance?’ by Raymond Carver All Members

Bonus Material Discussion re ‘Postscript’ by Seamus Heaney All Members

Evening of Creativity!

Culture Night Movie
Mark your calendars for the Write-on Anthology 2025 launch on Culture Night, Friday, 20 September on YouTube! 

This is our chance to share the result of all our hard work with the world.Before that, join us for an exclusive preview of our Culture Night film at the Pálás Cinema on Thursday, September 19, at 6pm.

Come watch yourself and fellow writers on the big screen! Seats are limited, so arrive early and bring friends – it’s going to be a fantastic evening!

We’re all set for another engaging Write-on session this evening. We have a fantastic lineup of short stories and poems to enjoy, but as always, time is limited, and we may not get to everything on the agenda. Don’t worry—anything not covered tonight will be pushed forward to our next session.Please , however, that there will be no Write-on session next week, as we will be attending the Culture Night Movie Preview at the Pálás Cinema. This special event will give us a sneak peek at our Culture Night film, A Literary Kaleidoscope, and promises to be a night to remember! As for tonight’s session, here’s what we have in store: Joyce Butcher will present her short story, It All Happened So Long Ago, taking us on a journey through the past. Joanne Dowling shares Salthill, a story sure to evoke vivid imagery of the seaside. Insomnia, by Frances Dermody, will bring a thoughtful exploration of sleepless nights. Anne McManus introduces Bride and the Guards, a tale filled with intrigue. Frank Fahy’s Aunt Nora and Dangerous Dan promises lively characters and great fun. On the poetry front, we have:Bray Seafront, a reflective piece by Thomas MacMahon. Seamus Keogh will present Arise, sure to stir deep emotions.

We’ll wrap up with a group discussion on volunteering for future Write-on tasks. With such a rich selection of work, tonight’s session is sure to be inspiring.Looking forward to seeing you all this evening!