WOWO – Thursday, 12 December 2024, 7-9pm

This is our last meeting before our Christmas Special next week. We offer a varied programme of prose, poetry and song, as well as the chance to examine a masterpiece of short story writing by a renowned craftsman.

Our new member, Veronica O’Neill, is presenting an unusual genre, a prose poem, where the stark realities of nature remind her of similar rites of passage in her own biography. Unusual and riveting.

The first excerpt from Seamus Keogh‘s novel continues last week’s account, which left Paudie in a dramatic situation. Later, a new scenario has two sisters defying tradition and social expectations against the backdrop of a lively folk festival. Vivid descriptions bring scenes and activities to life.

Geraldine Warren‘s poem captures the emotions of rejection and longing after the breakup of a very intimate relationship. Unspoken is the age-old question of how it could come to this!

The excitement of a child unwrapping her Christmas present is the theme of Deirdre Anne Gialamas’s heart-warming poem ‘The Shiny Red Couch’ – treasured memories that most people can relate to.

James Conway‘s poem ‘In a Picture’ brings an ancient photo to life, with tapping feet and happy smiles from a time when floors were strewn with sawdust, and Christmas brought the menfolk home from England. The joys of Christmasses long ago!

The song ‘Come Take My Hand’ celebrates two people dealing with life’s uncertainties side by side. Bill Geoghegan’s powerful lyrics will speak to many of us, offering comfort and a sense of solidarity.

‘Show, don’t tell’ is the key to the interpretation of this seemingly simple tale by the master story-teller Raymond Carver. Analysing his narrative techniques will benefit anyone and everyone who enjoys writing similar texts.

Once again, we offer a wonderful variety of original works to generate enjoyment, inspiration, discussion, and a feeling of interaction and connectivity. All members and visitors are welcome to participate!

Programme

Prose Poem Otter Veronica O’Neill

Novel Extract from: A Stained Collar 1 Seamus Keogh

Novel Extract from: A Stained collar 2 Seamus Keogh

Poem Death in December Geraldine Warren

Poem The Shiny Red Couch Deirdre Anne Gialamas

Poem In a Picture James Conway

Song Come Take My Hand Bill Geoghegan

Discussion Why Don’t You Dance? by Raymond Carver All Members