Posted on by Jutta Rosen

WOWO Thursday 9 January 2025 7-9pm

A warm Welcome to the New Year for all our members and friends. We’re looking forward to another exhilarating twelve months of creativity and stimulation in each other’s company, together with hours of pleasure reading and listening to the stories, poems and songs that we have produced.

In our last session before Christmas we enjoyed a much longer-than-usual list of texts. Some of these will be touched on in tonight’s programme, allowing comments and reactions for which there was no time in December.

Joanne Dowling‘s story moves with changing perspectives: the gentle anticipation of the returning traveller, and of those awaiting his or her arrival. The bonds of homeland, home and family emerge as the basic emotions of this quiet text.

A quest for ingredients for a Plum Pudding in 1960s Israel leads to insights into contrasting cultures and the universal quality of kindness. Humour and humanity set the tone in Jutta Rosen‘s memoir.

Deirdre Anne Gialamas chronicles the history of O’Donovan’s, a humble yet enduring Dublin deli that withstood the tides of modernisation. This piece celebrates resilience, community, and the heartwarming stories of those who make life a little brighter.

Helena Clare‘s pognant historical narrative unfolds in the form of a letter, detailing the hardships of 19th century Ireland. Through the voice of Paddy Connaughton, we glimpse acts of quiet heroism, familial love, and the compassion that sustains through adversity.

In ‘The Magic Proof’, Clare O’Malley captures the wonder of childhood belief. In this tender poem, a simple crack in the fireplace becomes a magical keepsake, evoking memories of love and innocence.

‘Let Peace be the Brightest Star’ by James Conway reminds us of the fragility of life and the enduring hope for peace. His poem weaves a tapestry of memory, loss, and the resilience of the human spirit.

In his second poem, James Conway delves into the enigmatic qualities of intuition and wisdom, painting a portrait of a world where insight triumphs over complexity.

Our discussion will cover points such as forthcoming publications, special events, competitions such as our monthly Mug of the Month, and much more!

Be sure not to miss what promises to be another lively and inspiring evening with a professional presentation of our own writings!

Programme:

Short Story Homecoming Joanne Dowling

Short Story O’Donovan’s Dublin Delight Deirdre Anne Gialamas

Short Story Paddy Connaughton’s Letter to Delia Helena Clare

Poem The Magic Proof Clare O’Malley

Poem Let Peace Be the Brightest Star James Conway

Poem A Seventh Sense James Conway

Discussion Write-On Plans for 2025 All Members