Month: March 2025

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