Link to Meeting on 14th August
Meeting of 7 June 2023
Our meeting of 7 June 2023 was the microfiction competition.
The microfiction for the purposes of this competition was defined as 101 words on any subject. First to read was Denise with 'Finders Keepers', where a down and out spends a lone coin he has received to buy a coffee. Next was Gillian with 'Forest Night' about a physical conflict between creatures of the night. Then Peter with 'Out Of Factor Fifty' about a character fleeing from the burning sunlight and Joan with 'Up In The Gallery' about a set of children trapped in a burning gallery.
The voting resulted in Gillian being winner and Peter second.
The members then read out the 20 word pieces they had written which were not part of the competition. Peter read 'A Lifetime in 19 years' about the duel that ended the life of Galois. Joan read 'Wishing' summarising the current coronation. Gillian read 'A Short Tail.' about a cat and mouse.
Denise then talked about a course she was on about sharpening up your story editing.
Our next meeting on 21st June is a talk by Peter on Writing Dialogue.
The microfiction for the purposes of this competition was defined as 101 words on any subject. First to read was Denise with 'Finders Keepers', where a down and out spends a lone coin he has received to buy a coffee. Next was Gillian with 'Forest Night' about a physical conflict between creatures of the night. Then Peter with 'Out Of Factor Fifty' about a character fleeing from the burning sunlight and Joan with 'Up In The Gallery' about a set of children trapped in a burning gallery.
The voting resulted in Gillian being winner and Peter second.
The members then read out the 20 word pieces they had written which were not part of the competition. Peter read 'A Lifetime in 19 years' about the duel that ended the life of Galois. Joan read 'Wishing' summarising the current coronation. Gillian read 'A Short Tail.' about a cat and mouse.
Denise then talked about a course she was on about sharpening up your story editing.
Our next meeting on 21st June is a talk by Peter on Writing Dialogue.
Meeting of 24th May 2023
Our meeting of 24 May 2023 was the adjudication of the poetry competition by Paul Hardwick(Oz).
Oz started by explaining a little about his background. He teaches on a creative writing course at Trinity University and concentrates on poetry.
He explained that what he first looks for in a poem is the first line, and read each of the first lines one after the other. Generally poems are about the shape as the subject, and they are similar to song lyrics.
He then went through each of the entries. First was “Apeggio” (by Denise), which was a free verse poem with several musical references. It follows no regular metrical pattern but produced a good sense of musicality. Next “Drifting Away” (by David) which starts as a surrealist piece but drifts into a description of someone with dementia. Then “A Game Of Chess” (by Miranda) which refers back to the Aids Crisis. Next was “In Waiting” (by Freda), which described the coronation from several points of view. Then was “Purple Prose” (by Peter) which told of social pressure on the use of language. Then “The Moon” (by Joan) - a Sonnet which hints of something spiritual. Finally “The Bishop's Cat” (by John) which tells of a cat, which though superficially angelic, is really just the opposite.
The winner was announced as John, and second place was accorded to David.
Our next meeting on 7th June is a manuscript and microfiction competition.
Meeting of 10 May 2023
Our meeting of 10 May 2023 was a manuscript evening.
First to read was Freda with 'In Flanders Field' about a young man going to war. Then Gillian read 'Black Friday' about a fishing tragedy in a freak storm. David read a follow-on to the day before his first A level when his mother collapsed. Joan read 'The Neighbour' about a woman who used to help train her son in playing football. Peter read a poem he had written for the poetry competition about the first world war then read out the start of a story which had the theme of 'Villain' where he asked for suggestions for how it could proceed.
Our next meeting on 24th May is the adjudication of the poetry competition.
First to read was Freda with 'In Flanders Field' about a young man going to war. Then Gillian read 'Black Friday' about a fishing tragedy in a freak storm. David read a follow-on to the day before his first A level when his mother collapsed. Joan read 'The Neighbour' about a woman who used to help train her son in playing football. Peter read a poem he had written for the poetry competition about the first world war then read out the start of a story which had the theme of 'Villain' where he asked for suggestions for how it could proceed.
Our next meeting on 24th May is the adjudication of the poetry competition.
Meeting of 26 April 2023
Our meeting of 26 April 2023 was the adjudication of the Chris Barnes Competition.
First of all John explained why we have an annual competition in honour of Chris Barnes.
Then Richard talked us through the entries on behalf of the members of the Barnes family who had come along to help us celebrate humour in the memory of Chris. Richard explained the process they went through to adjudicate, the family introduced themselves then Catherine read a piece by Chris himself, “The Animals Went In One By One” to illustrate his style of humour.
Richard then went through the comments of the adjudicators and the authors read out their stories, spaced out by some of Richard's jokes. First was “All In The Mind” read out by Joan. Then came “Lockout” read by John. Next was “Not So Splendid Isolation.” read by David. Then Peter read “A Punch Up”. Next was Mary's piece, “A Bit Of A Woo Woo” read by Peter as Mary could not be present. Finally Denise read “Missing In Midlife”.
The winner was declared as Peter who talked about the origin of the piece and the influence of political correctness on literature. This was then followed by a Literary quiz. And everyone agreed that an excellent meeting had taken place.
Our next meeting on 10th May is a manuscript evening and the last day for entry into the article competition.
First of all John explained why we have an annual competition in honour of Chris Barnes.
Then Richard talked us through the entries on behalf of the members of the Barnes family who had come along to help us celebrate humour in the memory of Chris. Richard explained the process they went through to adjudicate, the family introduced themselves then Catherine read a piece by Chris himself, “The Animals Went In One By One” to illustrate his style of humour.
Richard then went through the comments of the adjudicators and the authors read out their stories, spaced out by some of Richard's jokes. First was “All In The Mind” read out by Joan. Then came “Lockout” read by John. Next was “Not So Splendid Isolation.” read by David. Then Peter read “A Punch Up”. Next was Mary's piece, “A Bit Of A Woo Woo” read by Peter as Mary could not be present. Finally Denise read “Missing In Midlife”.
The winner was declared as Peter who talked about the origin of the piece and the influence of political correctness on literature. This was then followed by a Literary quiz. And everyone agreed that an excellent meeting had taken place.
Our next meeting on 10th May is a manuscript evening and the last day for entry into the article competition.
Meeting of 12 April
Our meeting of 12 April 2023 was a manuscript evening.
First to read was Gillian with 'The Letter' about a character who has become ill and has his children take over his farm. Freda read a piece of 'Stream of Consciousness' about a minor fall. Denise read a piece in memory of a friend who had recently died. David read 'Scotch Bonnet' about a wife giving her smug husband a meal that was hotter than he expected. Joan read 'The Harlequin' going into a deserted square at 4am during carnival. Peter read 'Cultivate a Heart of Love' which he wrote a while ago but never found a magazine to take it. He asked for the members to suggest ways he could breathe new life into it. Gillian then read her amusing first poem. Denise read a very short piece. Then David read a poem he wrote as an exercise at Swanwick and Joan read 'Sunday Afternoon' a short piece based on a Lowry painting. David read 'How to Worm Your Cat' in a poetic form. The meeting then ended with views on the recent announcement of the editing of Ian Fleming's books to bring them into the modern PC world.
First to read was Gillian with 'The Letter' about a character who has become ill and has his children take over his farm. Freda read a piece of 'Stream of Consciousness' about a minor fall. Denise read a piece in memory of a friend who had recently died. David read 'Scotch Bonnet' about a wife giving her smug husband a meal that was hotter than he expected. Joan read 'The Harlequin' going into a deserted square at 4am during carnival. Peter read 'Cultivate a Heart of Love' which he wrote a while ago but never found a magazine to take it. He asked for the members to suggest ways he could breathe new life into it. Gillian then read her amusing first poem. Denise read a very short piece. Then David read a poem he wrote as an exercise at Swanwick and Joan read 'Sunday Afternoon' a short piece based on a Lowry painting. David read 'How to Worm Your Cat' in a poetic form. The meeting then ended with views on the recent announcement of the editing of Ian Fleming's books to bring them into the modern PC world.
Meeting of 29 Mar 2023
Our meeting of 29 March 2023 was a Flash Fiction Competition.
First to read was Denise with “Train Tricks” about Charles Bertrand, the magician to the Prince of Wales, who is called to perform at Sandringham. Next was Kathleen with “Going Places” about a woman on the night before her wedding who receives a note from her reluctant groom. David then read “Love Letters” about a couple playing scrabble at long distance over the net after remeeting after fifty years. Peter read “The Long Journey” about a priest undertaking the 1000 day journey to obtain enlightenment. Joan then read “Another Time Another Place” about a long train journey. The narrator awakes to find the carriage full of strange people. Peter then read Mary's piece “A Mind Boggling Journey” which told of a girl in a flat share with ghostly goings on in the flat above. The voting gave Joan in first place and David as second. A lively discussion of the pieces then ensued.
Our next meeting on 12th April is a manuscript evening and the last date for submitting a poem to the poetry competition.
First to read was Denise with “Train Tricks” about Charles Bertrand, the magician to the Prince of Wales, who is called to perform at Sandringham. Next was Kathleen with “Going Places” about a woman on the night before her wedding who receives a note from her reluctant groom. David then read “Love Letters” about a couple playing scrabble at long distance over the net after remeeting after fifty years. Peter read “The Long Journey” about a priest undertaking the 1000 day journey to obtain enlightenment. Joan then read “Another Time Another Place” about a long train journey. The narrator awakes to find the carriage full of strange people. Peter then read Mary's piece “A Mind Boggling Journey” which told of a girl in a flat share with ghostly goings on in the flat above. The voting gave Joan in first place and David as second. A lively discussion of the pieces then ensued.
Our next meeting on 12th April is a manuscript evening and the last date for submitting a poem to the poetry competition.
Meeting of 15 Mar 2023
Our meeting of 15 March 2023 was a talk by Denise on Ekphrastic fiction which is defined as “How Art can inspire our work”
It is basically a response to any artwork and has a long standing tradition going back to Homer.
A good example is “Girl with a Pearl Earring” a 1999 historical novel written by Tracy Chevalier, set in 17th-century Delft, Holland, and inspired by painter Johannes Vermeer's Girl with a Pearl Earring. Chevalier presents a fictional account of Vermeer, the model and the painting. Poetry is probably the form which most uses Ekphrastic styles. The main method is to create your written piece on the inspiration that grabs you for a piece of art.
An exercise was then presented for people to jot down the inspiration from a copy of Nighthawks which Denise shared with the audience. The members were asked to suggest ideas based around the inspirations they had identified. A discussion of various aspects of Ekphrastic writing then followed where members gave their ideas of how they could bring this style of writing into their work.
It is basically a response to any artwork and has a long standing tradition going back to Homer.
A good example is “Girl with a Pearl Earring” a 1999 historical novel written by Tracy Chevalier, set in 17th-century Delft, Holland, and inspired by painter Johannes Vermeer's Girl with a Pearl Earring. Chevalier presents a fictional account of Vermeer, the model and the painting. Poetry is probably the form which most uses Ekphrastic styles. The main method is to create your written piece on the inspiration that grabs you for a piece of art.
An exercise was then presented for people to jot down the inspiration from a copy of Nighthawks which Denise shared with the audience. The members were asked to suggest ideas based around the inspirations they had identified. A discussion of various aspects of Ekphrastic writing then followed where members gave their ideas of how they could bring this style of writing into their work.
Meeting of 1 Mar 2023
Our meeting of 1st March 2023 was a manuscript evening.
Denise announced she had an acceptance in Ellipsis Zine.
First to read was Freda with 'Morning Musings'. This consisted of several story lines linked by the reference to mornings. Next was David with 'Cold Feet' which told of nerves in the church on the wedding day. Denise then read 'Fish Flail, Out of Water' which was the piece full of alliteration, which had been accepted by Ellipsis Zine. Then Gillian, a new visitor to the group read 'The Indifferent Observer', a short piece describing the observations from a luxurious train travelling through France and contrasting the interior with the devastation that the area had endured during the war. Joan read 'Thanks for the Memories' which told of childhood visits to a library which had subsequently been closed. Peter then read 'Final Cruise' about a retirement home where one recently passed member had imagined they were all on a cruise ship. David read a poem which also concerned an old character who thought he was on a cruise and Denise read a micro piece about the architect Gaudi.
Our next meeting on 15th March is a Talk by Denise on Flash Fiction Ekphrastic writing.
Denise announced she had an acceptance in Ellipsis Zine.
First to read was Freda with 'Morning Musings'. This consisted of several story lines linked by the reference to mornings. Next was David with 'Cold Feet' which told of nerves in the church on the wedding day. Denise then read 'Fish Flail, Out of Water' which was the piece full of alliteration, which had been accepted by Ellipsis Zine. Then Gillian, a new visitor to the group read 'The Indifferent Observer', a short piece describing the observations from a luxurious train travelling through France and contrasting the interior with the devastation that the area had endured during the war. Joan read 'Thanks for the Memories' which told of childhood visits to a library which had subsequently been closed. Peter then read 'Final Cruise' about a retirement home where one recently passed member had imagined they were all on a cruise ship. David read a poem which also concerned an old character who thought he was on a cruise and Denise read a micro piece about the architect Gaudi.
Our next meeting on 15th March is a Talk by Denise on Flash Fiction Ekphrastic writing.
Meeting of 15 Feb 2023
Our meeting of 15th February 2023 was a competition for a review of a book, film or TV programme.
Denise announced she had an acceptance in 100 Word Project and Peter had a story, 'Star Turn', shortlisted in Writers Forum.
Members read out their reviews and then the others voted for their favourite one.
First to read was Pat with 'The Glass Arena' about John Healy who had a troubled early life but eventually found salvation through playing chess. Next was Denise with a piece with no title about Michael Mosely's 'Just One Thing' concerning experiments on lifestyle changes. Peter read a review of the TV programme, 'Detectorists,' about two friends who dream of discovering gold. Freda read 'The confessions of Frannie Langton'. This is a dark book about slavery. David read his review of 'Happy Valley' concentrating on the ending of the series. Joan reviewed 'The Paris Apartment ' where the main protagonist searches for her missing brother.
The result of the voting was that Joan came first and Freda came second. A discussion of the pieces then took place.
Our next meeting on 1st March is a manuscript evening and the last date for sending in an entry to the Chris Barnes humorous writing competition.
Denise announced she had an acceptance in 100 Word Project and Peter had a story, 'Star Turn', shortlisted in Writers Forum.
Members read out their reviews and then the others voted for their favourite one.
First to read was Pat with 'The Glass Arena' about John Healy who had a troubled early life but eventually found salvation through playing chess. Next was Denise with a piece with no title about Michael Mosely's 'Just One Thing' concerning experiments on lifestyle changes. Peter read a review of the TV programme, 'Detectorists,' about two friends who dream of discovering gold. Freda read 'The confessions of Frannie Langton'. This is a dark book about slavery. David read his review of 'Happy Valley' concentrating on the ending of the series. Joan reviewed 'The Paris Apartment ' where the main protagonist searches for her missing brother.
The result of the voting was that Joan came first and Freda came second. A discussion of the pieces then took place.
Our next meeting on 1st March is a manuscript evening and the last date for sending in an entry to the Chris Barnes humorous writing competition.
Meeting of 1 Feb 2023
Our meeting of 1st February 2023 was a manuscript evening.
Denise announced she was on yet another shortlist for Retreat West.
The first to read was Kathleen who was tidying her house and found a piece about the vagaries English spelling and punctuation. Pat then read a piece that she wrote earlier in the day called 'The Feathers' which covered the idea that lost loved ones left signs for you to see. Denise read a short, but currently unedited, piece from a prompt 'Somebody has thrown a cigarette in a dumpster'. Next David read a draft of 'The Doll' told in the voice of a Downs Syndrome girl. Joan read a piece about a wife's observation of a husband affected by Huntingdon's Chorea. Peter then read an unedited version of the start of a nostalgia based story targeted at Writing Magazine. Denise read a lighter piece, 'Streamline Your Wardrobe' to end the readings on a lighter note. A discussion of books recently read by the members followed.
Our next meeting on 15th February is a competition for a review of a Book, Play, TV programme or radio programme.
Denise announced she was on yet another shortlist for Retreat West.
The first to read was Kathleen who was tidying her house and found a piece about the vagaries English spelling and punctuation. Pat then read a piece that she wrote earlier in the day called 'The Feathers' which covered the idea that lost loved ones left signs for you to see. Denise read a short, but currently unedited, piece from a prompt 'Somebody has thrown a cigarette in a dumpster'. Next David read a draft of 'The Doll' told in the voice of a Downs Syndrome girl. Joan read a piece about a wife's observation of a husband affected by Huntingdon's Chorea. Peter then read an unedited version of the start of a nostalgia based story targeted at Writing Magazine. Denise read a lighter piece, 'Streamline Your Wardrobe' to end the readings on a lighter note. A discussion of books recently read by the members followed.
Our next meeting on 15th February is a competition for a review of a Book, Play, TV programme or radio programme.
Meeting of 18 Jan 2023
Our meeting of 18th January 2023 was the AGM followed by manuscripts.
Denise announced she was on yet another shortlist and Pat announced her autobiographic novel, “My Journey Of Self Belief” which is now available at Amazon.
The AGM then began. Joan read the Chair's report for the last year.
John gave us the treasurer's report which showed a slight increase in bank balance.
Election of the office bearers then proceeded with all the existing incumbents being reelected.
On any other business, the retention of members was discussed.
Denise commented on the good quality of speakers for 2022.
A proposal to temporarily suspend the Wainwright Trophy because of the small number of members was tabled but was not passed.
A proposal was tabled to keep the cups with the chair and winners issued with a medal or certificate which they could keep was voted on and passed. It was also agreed to have a summer meeting in Harrogate.
The winners of the Writing Circle Trophy were announced as Freda and Peter, and the winner of the Wainwright trophy was Pat.
The programme for 2023 was revealed by the Chair.
The meeting then proceeded with some manuscripts from David, Pat, Mary and Denise
Our next meeting on 1st February is a manuscript evening.
Denise announced she was on yet another shortlist and Pat announced her autobiographic novel, “My Journey Of Self Belief” which is now available at Amazon.
The AGM then began. Joan read the Chair's report for the last year.
John gave us the treasurer's report which showed a slight increase in bank balance.
Election of the office bearers then proceeded with all the existing incumbents being reelected.
On any other business, the retention of members was discussed.
Denise commented on the good quality of speakers for 2022.
A proposal to temporarily suspend the Wainwright Trophy because of the small number of members was tabled but was not passed.
A proposal was tabled to keep the cups with the chair and winners issued with a medal or certificate which they could keep was voted on and passed. It was also agreed to have a summer meeting in Harrogate.
The winners of the Writing Circle Trophy were announced as Freda and Peter, and the winner of the Wainwright trophy was Pat.
The programme for 2023 was revealed by the Chair.
The meeting then proceeded with some manuscripts from David, Pat, Mary and Denise
Our next meeting on 1st February is a manuscript evening.
Meeting of 4 Jan 2023
Our meeting of 4th January 2023 was a manuscript evening.
Pat announced that she is running a group session, with the U3A, in writing memoirs. Miranda announced she was opening a book shop in Bedale and intended to do book signing and open mike sessions.
First to read was Freda with a short piece based on the letters in the word 'Christmas'. A sort of acrostic short story. Then Denise read a flash fiction piece 'Precious Alchemy' which had a series of sections: 'Clever Foxes', 'Fighting Snails' and 'Bands of Musicians'. Miranda read 'Horn of Plenty' about the use of body reconstructions and addiction in silicon(e) valley. Pat then read an unedited part of her biography about her experience working in a geriatric hospital. Next was Mary with a piece about an addict talking about giving up alcohol after a succession of events, but always procrastinating...
Peter read a story which he was rewriting and asked for comments from the members as to how it could be improved.
Our next meeting on 18th January is the AGM and manuscript evening.
Pat announced that she is running a group session, with the U3A, in writing memoirs. Miranda announced she was opening a book shop in Bedale and intended to do book signing and open mike sessions.
First to read was Freda with a short piece based on the letters in the word 'Christmas'. A sort of acrostic short story. Then Denise read a flash fiction piece 'Precious Alchemy' which had a series of sections: 'Clever Foxes', 'Fighting Snails' and 'Bands of Musicians'. Miranda read 'Horn of Plenty' about the use of body reconstructions and addiction in silicon(e) valley. Pat then read an unedited part of her biography about her experience working in a geriatric hospital. Next was Mary with a piece about an addict talking about giving up alcohol after a succession of events, but always procrastinating...
Peter read a story which he was rewriting and asked for comments from the members as to how it could be improved.
Our next meeting on 18th January is the AGM and manuscript evening.
Meeting of 7 Dec 2022
Our meeting of 7th December 2022 was the reading of our favourite pieces of Christmas writings by famous authors interspersed with Joan coming up with Christmas facts that most of us had not known.
First to read was Peter with “The Gift of the Magi” about a couple who each make a sacrifice to obtain a present for the other. Next was Pat who read the final part of “The Christmas Carol” which prompted a discussion of the best film version of the story. Then Freda read a poem by Clive Sanson, “The Innkeepers Wife” telling the tale of the nativity from the innkeeper's wife's point of view. Denise read an extract from “The Christmas Chronicles” by Michael Slater. Catherine read a piece, from author Antonia Forest, about a school nativity. Joan read “A Nursery in the 90s” by Eleanor Farjeon.
There was then a variety of pieces, some by famous authors and some written by the members.
Our next meeting on 4th January is a manuscript evening.
First to read was Peter with “The Gift of the Magi” about a couple who each make a sacrifice to obtain a present for the other. Next was Pat who read the final part of “The Christmas Carol” which prompted a discussion of the best film version of the story. Then Freda read a poem by Clive Sanson, “The Innkeepers Wife” telling the tale of the nativity from the innkeeper's wife's point of view. Denise read an extract from “The Christmas Chronicles” by Michael Slater. Catherine read a piece, from author Antonia Forest, about a school nativity. Joan read “A Nursery in the 90s” by Eleanor Farjeon.
There was then a variety of pieces, some by famous authors and some written by the members.
Our next meeting on 4th January is a manuscript evening.
Meeting of 23 Nov 2022
Our meeting of 23rd Nov 2022 was our Christmas readings evening.
First to read was Pat with 'Dickens Comes to Life' about the Dickens World theme park in Kent. Next was Catherine who read 'An Alternative Christmas' about a family tradition of hosting Christmas in turn. Then Mary read 'A Christmas Card' about a son giving his mother a prepaid card which was not what she expected. Next Denise read 'For Sale - Period Property' a dark piece with a Christmas ghost. Then Kathleen read a piece from Alan Titchmarch's book. David read 'Street Life' about a man living on the street. Peter read a piece from his alternative nativities, helped by David, about the angels trying to kick start the Christmas star. Joan read 'The Christmas Party' about a couple preparing for Christmas and the husband trying to get to the staff Christmas party without his wife. There was time at the end for a short piece from Catherine - 'A Thankyou Card' and another piece by Kathleen by Noël Coward followed by Denise, who read 'The True Meaning of Twixtmass' about a family's intolerance of one member's choice of lifestyle. Finally Joan then read 'Christmas Present Shopping for Mum'.
First to read was Pat with 'Dickens Comes to Life' about the Dickens World theme park in Kent. Next was Catherine who read 'An Alternative Christmas' about a family tradition of hosting Christmas in turn. Then Mary read 'A Christmas Card' about a son giving his mother a prepaid card which was not what she expected. Next Denise read 'For Sale - Period Property' a dark piece with a Christmas ghost. Then Kathleen read a piece from Alan Titchmarch's book. David read 'Street Life' about a man living on the street. Peter read a piece from his alternative nativities, helped by David, about the angels trying to kick start the Christmas star. Joan read 'The Christmas Party' about a couple preparing for Christmas and the husband trying to get to the staff Christmas party without his wife. There was time at the end for a short piece from Catherine - 'A Thankyou Card' and another piece by Kathleen by Noël Coward followed by Denise, who read 'The True Meaning of Twixtmass' about a family's intolerance of one member's choice of lifestyle. Finally Joan then read 'Christmas Present Shopping for Mum'.
Meeting of 9 Nov 2022
Our meeting of 9th Nov 2022 was a manuscript evening.
An acceptance for Denise with a piece in the Oxford Flash Anthology was announced by Joan.
First to read was Catherine with a prologue from the novel she is reediting about a farmer's crop being destroyed and the consequences for his family. Next was Mary with a work in progress story about a group of people on a train journeying to a football match. She asked for help with the way the story could progress. Robert, a new visitor, then read a story which was part of a book, aimed at 7 year olds about an interaction with a teacher at school. Then Peter read his piece 'Them Bones' which was a first person story about an ageing man trying to prove he was still mentally active while interacting with a hospital doctor. Kathleen then read her story 'Christmas is a Coming in.' about a couple concerning the issue of whether married women should give up work. Finally Joan read a short piece, 'The 10:14 to Carcassonne' about a train journey where the police suddenly arrested the two men opposite the narrator, for no apparent reason.
Our next meeting on 23th November is for christmas readings.
An acceptance for Denise with a piece in the Oxford Flash Anthology was announced by Joan.
First to read was Catherine with a prologue from the novel she is reediting about a farmer's crop being destroyed and the consequences for his family. Next was Mary with a work in progress story about a group of people on a train journeying to a football match. She asked for help with the way the story could progress. Robert, a new visitor, then read a story which was part of a book, aimed at 7 year olds about an interaction with a teacher at school. Then Peter read his piece 'Them Bones' which was a first person story about an ageing man trying to prove he was still mentally active while interacting with a hospital doctor. Kathleen then read her story 'Christmas is a Coming in.' about a couple concerning the issue of whether married women should give up work. Finally Joan read a short piece, 'The 10:14 to Carcassonne' about a train journey where the police suddenly arrested the two men opposite the narrator, for no apparent reason.
Our next meeting on 23th November is for christmas readings.
Meeting of 26 Oct 2022
Our meeting of 26th Oct 2022 was the adjudication of the short story competition by Sheila from Ripon Writers' Group.
Sheila started by explaining her writing history, her view of story telling and explained the strategy she used to judge the stories - her expectations as a reader, writer and adjudicator. As a reader, the first phrase of a story was like a door that had been opened and as a reader she wants to be left with a lasting impression. As a writer she assessed how well the author had manipulated the reader. As an adjudicator, initially she wanted to be able to easily read a story straight through. So anything that interrupts the reading would be mentioned. Also the story should reflect the theme which was 'unrequited love'.
She then discussed each of the stories in general, the detailed notes were supplied so that they could be sent to the author of each piece.
Then we had a question and answer session which revealed more of the adjudicator's thinking behind what made a good story.
The announcement of the winners then revealed Peter as winner with 'Homecoming Queen', second was Mary with 'A Rose By Any Other Name Would Smell as Sweet' and a commended entry for Joan's piece 'The Girl in The Cornflower Blue Dress'.
The winners read out their pieces and then there were readings from Freda with 'A Fairy Tale', then Joan with her commended piece.
Our next meeting on 9th November is a manuscript evening.
Sheila started by explaining her writing history, her view of story telling and explained the strategy she used to judge the stories - her expectations as a reader, writer and adjudicator. As a reader, the first phrase of a story was like a door that had been opened and as a reader she wants to be left with a lasting impression. As a writer she assessed how well the author had manipulated the reader. As an adjudicator, initially she wanted to be able to easily read a story straight through. So anything that interrupts the reading would be mentioned. Also the story should reflect the theme which was 'unrequited love'.
She then discussed each of the stories in general, the detailed notes were supplied so that they could be sent to the author of each piece.
Then we had a question and answer session which revealed more of the adjudicator's thinking behind what made a good story.
The announcement of the winners then revealed Peter as winner with 'Homecoming Queen', second was Mary with 'A Rose By Any Other Name Would Smell as Sweet' and a commended entry for Joan's piece 'The Girl in The Cornflower Blue Dress'.
The winners read out their pieces and then there were readings from Freda with 'A Fairy Tale', then Joan with her commended piece.
Our next meeting on 9th November is a manuscript evening.
Meeting of 12 Oct 2022
Our meeting of 12th Oct 2022 was a manuscript evening.
An acceptance was announced by Pat - the biography she ghost wrote for Colin Dixon has been accepted on the recommended list by the police federation.
We welcomed new arrivals Catherine and Claire then proceeded with the meeting. Claire was first to read with a fictionalised letter from a member of crew, Captain Turner, on the Lusitania. Denise then read her atmospheric piece, 'Midnight'. Catherine then introduced herself and then read from her book 'Carcassonne Dreams' which centred on a wedding showing cultural differences between the French and English. David read another piece from his autobiography which has been fictionalised. Pat read a section of her book about Colin Dixon. Finally Peter read a short Halloween piece.
Our next meeting on 26th October is the adjudication of the short story competition.
An acceptance was announced by Pat - the biography she ghost wrote for Colin Dixon has been accepted on the recommended list by the police federation.
We welcomed new arrivals Catherine and Claire then proceeded with the meeting. Claire was first to read with a fictionalised letter from a member of crew, Captain Turner, on the Lusitania. Denise then read her atmospheric piece, 'Midnight'. Catherine then introduced herself and then read from her book 'Carcassonne Dreams' which centred on a wedding showing cultural differences between the French and English. David read another piece from his autobiography which has been fictionalised. Pat read a section of her book about Colin Dixon. Finally Peter read a short Halloween piece.
Our next meeting on 26th October is the adjudication of the short story competition.
Meeting of 28th Sept 2022
Our meeting of 28th Sep 2022 was a talk by John Chilton on humour in writing.
Miranda announced a longlisting of poems in the Mono Poetry Competition, and Denise had 'Measuring The Density of Air' accepted by Roi Fainéant Press.
John has a good track record in writing comedy and won the Writers Circle's competition this year for humorous writing - The Chris Barnes Competition.
He started his talk with explaining that though most people had a sense of humour, it can take different forms according to a person's background. Humour is subjective. He advised to write to your target audience. Also he considered the modern constraints of political correctness on jokes and gave a balanced perspective on its use. He illustrated, throughout, with examples of humour in many forms. This included examples of Peter Kay who used his family as a source of humour. Using someone you know and exaggerating their quirks is a good source of humour. Clichés can also be subverted to create humour. He then talked about PJ Woodhouse and his successful use of humour, giving several examples and contrasted this with John Mortimer's character Rumpole of the Bailey.
There then followed a lively discussion with member's own experience of trying to write humour with many congratulations to John on a talk which sparked such a large amount of discussion.
Our next meeting on 12th October is a manuscript evening.
Miranda announced a longlisting of poems in the Mono Poetry Competition, and Denise had 'Measuring The Density of Air' accepted by Roi Fainéant Press.
John has a good track record in writing comedy and won the Writers Circle's competition this year for humorous writing - The Chris Barnes Competition.
He started his talk with explaining that though most people had a sense of humour, it can take different forms according to a person's background. Humour is subjective. He advised to write to your target audience. Also he considered the modern constraints of political correctness on jokes and gave a balanced perspective on its use. He illustrated, throughout, with examples of humour in many forms. This included examples of Peter Kay who used his family as a source of humour. Using someone you know and exaggerating their quirks is a good source of humour. Clichés can also be subverted to create humour. He then talked about PJ Woodhouse and his successful use of humour, giving several examples and contrasted this with John Mortimer's character Rumpole of the Bailey.
There then followed a lively discussion with member's own experience of trying to write humour with many congratulations to John on a talk which sparked such a large amount of discussion.
Our next meeting on 12th October is a manuscript evening.
Meeting of 14th Sept 2022
Our meeting of 14th Sep 2022 was a talk by Jonathan Hall, a playwright, an author of 'A Spoonful of Murder' and also a good friend of Harrogate Writers.
He gave a lively talk which told of the way his life has been transformed by his writing. He told of the way he came to get his work published, explaining that part of his success was happenstance and part was that he was always 'out there' - being involved in teaching writing groups and being involved in writers' workshops. He has had plays produced by the BBC twenty years ago, but he said it never felt like it got going so he never felt like a radio writer. However, he was a member (now the chair) of 'Script Yorkshire' and one of their patrons was a Radio 4 producer who was interested in producing a play about school trusts and championed Jonathan. He then found that he had to prioritise the writing over everything else.
His novel was assisted by an agent who helped him to edit it and send it out to publishers.
Finally there was a Q&A session which was very lively and informative.
It was a very inspirational and enjoyable talk. We look forward to Jonathan's next visit.
Our next meeting on 28th September is a talk by John Chilton on 'Comedy in Writing.'
He gave a lively talk which told of the way his life has been transformed by his writing. He told of the way he came to get his work published, explaining that part of his success was happenstance and part was that he was always 'out there' - being involved in teaching writing groups and being involved in writers' workshops. He has had plays produced by the BBC twenty years ago, but he said it never felt like it got going so he never felt like a radio writer. However, he was a member (now the chair) of 'Script Yorkshire' and one of their patrons was a Radio 4 producer who was interested in producing a play about school trusts and championed Jonathan. He then found that he had to prioritise the writing over everything else.
His novel was assisted by an agent who helped him to edit it and send it out to publishers.
Finally there was a Q&A session which was very lively and informative.
It was a very inspirational and enjoyable talk. We look forward to Jonathan's next visit.
Our next meeting on 28th September is a talk by John Chilton on 'Comedy in Writing.'
Meeting of 31 Aug 2022
Our meeting of 31st Aug 2022 was an internal competition where members were asked to write 800 words on a picture they had been given.
Acceptances were announced with Denise being shortlisted in the Lucent Dreaming 2022 Prize.
First to read was Pat with her piece “One Step at a Time” based on the picture of Whitby steps about a father who struggled to walk down and remembered an earlier time. Next was Kathleen whose piece The “Horse Trainers Story” was based on the picture of Middleham. Then Freda read her piece “In Harmony” based on the picture of a couple in a gallery. Then came Mary with her untitled piece based on the Whitby Steps. Peter then read “One Small Step” based on the Whitby steps. Joan read her piece again based on the Whitby Steps “A Long Weekend In Whitby”. Denise read “Phantom Voices” based on Whitby Steps. We all then voted for our favourite with the result that Denise came first and Freda came second. Congratulations to both. The members then gave their comments on the pieces that had been read out. The meeting ended with David reading a section of his biography and Nick reading one of his poems.
Our next meeting on 14th September is a talk by Jonathan Hall.
Acceptances were announced with Denise being shortlisted in the Lucent Dreaming 2022 Prize.
First to read was Pat with her piece “One Step at a Time” based on the picture of Whitby steps about a father who struggled to walk down and remembered an earlier time. Next was Kathleen whose piece The “Horse Trainers Story” was based on the picture of Middleham. Then Freda read her piece “In Harmony” based on the picture of a couple in a gallery. Then came Mary with her untitled piece based on the Whitby Steps. Peter then read “One Small Step” based on the Whitby steps. Joan read her piece again based on the Whitby Steps “A Long Weekend In Whitby”. Denise read “Phantom Voices” based on Whitby Steps. We all then voted for our favourite with the result that Denise came first and Freda came second. Congratulations to both. The members then gave their comments on the pieces that had been read out. The meeting ended with David reading a section of his biography and Nick reading one of his poems.
Our next meeting on 14th September is a talk by Jonathan Hall.
Meeting of 17 Aug 2022
Our meeting of 17th Aug 2022 was a talk by Pat Sutcliffe on “How True is Truth in Writing.”
The meeting started with Pat talking about truth in fiction and in nonfiction and the different expectations of the reader when looking at each of them. In nonfiction our research is taken from other sources, which quite often give different versions of the material. She took the example of 'Peaky Blinders' where the source material can be shown to be not historically correct.
Then she asked for people to read out the answers they had given to the questions she had set the members earlier regarding how they view truth in writing. There then followed a discussion on how we know what is the truth. Pat then talked about what we mean by 'The Gospel Truth' as the content of the Gospels has changed over the years because of the lack of primary source and the re-translations of the material.
She then went on to discuss emotional truth and how this enables us to get the reader to empathize with a character which we have created. A lively discussion then ensued to finish a very enjoyable evening.
The meeting started with Pat talking about truth in fiction and in nonfiction and the different expectations of the reader when looking at each of them. In nonfiction our research is taken from other sources, which quite often give different versions of the material. She took the example of 'Peaky Blinders' where the source material can be shown to be not historically correct.
Then she asked for people to read out the answers they had given to the questions she had set the members earlier regarding how they view truth in writing. There then followed a discussion on how we know what is the truth. Pat then talked about what we mean by 'The Gospel Truth' as the content of the Gospels has changed over the years because of the lack of primary source and the re-translations of the material.
She then went on to discuss emotional truth and how this enables us to get the reader to empathize with a character which we have created. A lively discussion then ensued to finish a very enjoyable evening.
Meeting of 3 Aug 2022
Our meeting of 3rd Aug 2022 was a manuscript evening.
Pat was first to read with her piece 'Love, Lust, Cost'. Then Joan read her entry to the article competition, 'The Button Box'. Next up Kathleen read Ann's entry into the poetry competition which had not been previously read out. Then Denise read her story 'The End of the Show'. Peter read his entry into the article competition 'Rose Tinted Memories'. Then Freda read her winning entry in the article competition 'How Does Your Garden Grow.' Kathleen then read 'The Mummers Return'. Pat read 'Auction with Regret' her entry into the article competition, which came second. Finally Miranda read out 'Leigh and Isabella' as part of her tribute to Alexander McQueen. There then followed a lively discussion of the pieces.
Our next meeting, on 17th Aug is a talk by Pat on “How True is Truth in Writing.”
Pat was first to read with her piece 'Love, Lust, Cost'. Then Joan read her entry to the article competition, 'The Button Box'. Next up Kathleen read Ann's entry into the poetry competition which had not been previously read out. Then Denise read her story 'The End of the Show'. Peter read his entry into the article competition 'Rose Tinted Memories'. Then Freda read her winning entry in the article competition 'How Does Your Garden Grow.' Kathleen then read 'The Mummers Return'. Pat read 'Auction with Regret' her entry into the article competition, which came second. Finally Miranda read out 'Leigh and Isabella' as part of her tribute to Alexander McQueen. There then followed a lively discussion of the pieces.
Our next meeting, on 17th Aug is a talk by Pat on “How True is Truth in Writing.”
Meeting of 20 July 2022
Our meeting of 20th July 2022 was the adjudication of our article competition by Simon Whaley.
In the meeting, Simon went through the entries and gave his hints for improvement. First was Helen's piece 'Blue Volvo, Victoria Car Park.' which was about a chance sighting of a Volvo in a car park which revived childhood memories of car trips. Then came David's piece, 'Man With a Suitcase' which though the suitcase held a lot of material, it was the suitcase itself that held the memories. Next was Freda's 'How Does your Garden Grow' which told the story of the family history through what happened in the garden. Then Pat's 'Auction With Regret' related the story of Jane Austin moving house and selling off all her possessions. Then Kathleen's article 'Reliving Those Memories' which followed nostalgia through the senses. Peter's piece 'Rose Tinted Memories' was about remembering certain things fondly when the reality was much different. Joan's piece 'The Button Box' talked about picking up individual buttons which each triggered a different memory. John's piece 'A Vintage Year.' contrasted what happened worldwide in each month in 1953 with what happened in John's own life.
The results were then announced with Pat second and Freda winning, both excellent pieces.
There then followed an extensive Q&A session where Simon gave many hints about how to get pieces published.
In the meeting, Simon went through the entries and gave his hints for improvement. First was Helen's piece 'Blue Volvo, Victoria Car Park.' which was about a chance sighting of a Volvo in a car park which revived childhood memories of car trips. Then came David's piece, 'Man With a Suitcase' which though the suitcase held a lot of material, it was the suitcase itself that held the memories. Next was Freda's 'How Does your Garden Grow' which told the story of the family history through what happened in the garden. Then Pat's 'Auction With Regret' related the story of Jane Austin moving house and selling off all her possessions. Then Kathleen's article 'Reliving Those Memories' which followed nostalgia through the senses. Peter's piece 'Rose Tinted Memories' was about remembering certain things fondly when the reality was much different. Joan's piece 'The Button Box' talked about picking up individual buttons which each triggered a different memory. John's piece 'A Vintage Year.' contrasted what happened worldwide in each month in 1953 with what happened in John's own life.
The results were then announced with Pat second and Freda winning, both excellent pieces.
There then followed an extensive Q&A session where Simon gave many hints about how to get pieces published.
Meeting of 6 July 2022
Our meeting of 6th July 2022 was a manuscript evening.
First was Pat who read chapter two of her memoir covering her second job which she regarded as the best she ever had. Next came Miranda who is putting together a series of poems based on the dark shows of Alexander McQueen. The piece she read was Deliverance which was based on a dance marathon. Then a new member, Mary, read a poem about bonfire night based on her reactions to real events remembered from when she was young. Joan read her story about someone interviewing a woman who had been, in an earlier life, the mistress of the murderer, Dr Crippin, for the purpose of writing a book about her life. Then Peter talked about some fillers he had been sending in then read a story he originally wrote several years ago but never submitted, and asked for comments so he could edit it. Finally Pat read a piece about the story of a supply teacher.
First was Pat who read chapter two of her memoir covering her second job which she regarded as the best she ever had. Next came Miranda who is putting together a series of poems based on the dark shows of Alexander McQueen. The piece she read was Deliverance which was based on a dance marathon. Then a new member, Mary, read a poem about bonfire night based on her reactions to real events remembered from when she was young. Joan read her story about someone interviewing a woman who had been, in an earlier life, the mistress of the murderer, Dr Crippin, for the purpose of writing a book about her life. Then Peter talked about some fillers he had been sending in then read a story he originally wrote several years ago but never submitted, and asked for comments so he could edit it. Finally Pat read a piece about the story of a supply teacher.
Meeting of 22 June 2022
Our meeting of 22nd June 2022 was a talk By Della Galton
Joan introduced Della Galton as a very successful author of novels and short stories, an online tutor and a regular columnist in writing magazines.
Della gave a quick summary of her route to becoming a successful writer. She made a choice to become a writer early on and sold the third story she sent in. There was a bit of a lull for a while but she gave up her day job and became addicted to writing. She worked out how many stories she needed to send in to be able to give up her full time job, which came to at least six stories a month. She did manage to keep up the output, but admitted that she could do it only because this was something she loved.
She shared with us her checklist which she finds useful to ensure all the elements of a short story are present. And also explained the pattern of a story that most magazines require.
She then led us through an exercise writing opening paragraphs which she helped us develop. Altogether an informative and extremely enjoyable meeting.
Joan introduced Della Galton as a very successful author of novels and short stories, an online tutor and a regular columnist in writing magazines.
Della gave a quick summary of her route to becoming a successful writer. She made a choice to become a writer early on and sold the third story she sent in. There was a bit of a lull for a while but she gave up her day job and became addicted to writing. She worked out how many stories she needed to send in to be able to give up her full time job, which came to at least six stories a month. She did manage to keep up the output, but admitted that she could do it only because this was something she loved.
She shared with us her checklist which she finds useful to ensure all the elements of a short story are present. And also explained the pattern of a story that most magazines require.
She then led us through an exercise writing opening paragraphs which she helped us develop. Altogether an informative and extremely enjoyable meeting.
Meeting of 8 June 2022
Our meeting of 8th June 2022 was the voting for second place in the poetry competition followed by manuscripts. The first prize, going to Sue, was announced at the previous meeting
An acceptance was announced by Peter who had a third prize in Writers Forum magazine with his story 'A Wasted Youth'
Before the voting was revealed, members present read their stories:
Peter read 'Wild Garden' followed by Karen who read 'Glass'. Then Amanda read 'Scrapbook' and Freda read 'In Honour of Mothers Day'. Next Helen read 'Hindsight'. Then Cathy read 'Get That Cat'. And finally Kathleen read 'The Man at The Bar'. The winner was 'Shelf Life' which was by Denise. And third prize went to Miranda for her own poem but then she read out John's poem 'Natural History' as he was not present.
The meeting was then treated to some manuscripts. David read his poem 'Drifting Away'. Freda read 'The Last Hour' - a stream of consciousness piece about trying to write despite interruptions and Peter read his short story 'A Wasted Youth'
An acceptance was announced by Peter who had a third prize in Writers Forum magazine with his story 'A Wasted Youth'
Before the voting was revealed, members present read their stories:
Peter read 'Wild Garden' followed by Karen who read 'Glass'. Then Amanda read 'Scrapbook' and Freda read 'In Honour of Mothers Day'. Next Helen read 'Hindsight'. Then Cathy read 'Get That Cat'. And finally Kathleen read 'The Man at The Bar'. The winner was 'Shelf Life' which was by Denise. And third prize went to Miranda for her own poem but then she read out John's poem 'Natural History' as he was not present.
The meeting was then treated to some manuscripts. David read his poem 'Drifting Away'. Freda read 'The Last Hour' - a stream of consciousness piece about trying to write despite interruptions and Peter read his short story 'A Wasted Youth'
Meeting of 25 May 2022
Our meeting of 25th May 2022 was the adjudication of the poetry competition by Rob Cowen.
Joan gave a quick introduction to Rob. Then he took us through his route to becoming a well published writer. He started in the media industry then journalism and has always had an interest in the natural world which has greatly influenced his writing. This lead him to write columns in various newspapers about how we can connect back to nature. A move to Harrogate then followed and a change in his lifestyle helped him to connect with the Nidd Gorge and inspired a lot of his work. Then his poetry book “The Heeding” came out of his time during lockdown and became a best seller.
This was followed by a lively question and answer session which kept the meeting amused and informed.
Finally first prize in the Poetry Competition was announced as Sue's poem “Mudlark”. A worthy winner.
Our next meeting, on 8th June, is a manuscript evening where members can read out any work in progress.
Joan gave a quick introduction to Rob. Then he took us through his route to becoming a well published writer. He started in the media industry then journalism and has always had an interest in the natural world which has greatly influenced his writing. This lead him to write columns in various newspapers about how we can connect back to nature. A move to Harrogate then followed and a change in his lifestyle helped him to connect with the Nidd Gorge and inspired a lot of his work. Then his poetry book “The Heeding” came out of his time during lockdown and became a best seller.
This was followed by a lively question and answer session which kept the meeting amused and informed.
Finally first prize in the Poetry Competition was announced as Sue's poem “Mudlark”. A worthy winner.
Our next meeting, on 8th June, is a manuscript evening where members can read out any work in progress.
Meeting of 11 May 2022
Our meeting of 11th May 2022 was a manuscript evening. Acceptances were announced from Peter with a shortlisted story, “Mr Hamblin's Shop” in writing Magazine and Denise was shortlisted in Flash 500 and published in Ellipsis Zine magazine.
First to read was Helen who read her winning entry in the 2004 Theakstones Crime Writing flash fiction competition. Next David read another piece of his autobiography followed by Kathy reading a sitcom she had sent to the BBC. Then Joan read “The Forest Whisperer” about someone's reaction to the sound of the forest. Peter then read his supernatural story “Kelpie” and Freda read another section from her, fictionalised, biography of her family. Finally Kathleen read her story about a woman's love interrupted by an accident which caused her to lose her eyesight and become bitter. Reaction to all the stories was lively and many helpful hints were suggested by members.
Our next meeting, on 25th May, is the adjudication of the poetry competition by Rob Cowen.
First to read was Helen who read her winning entry in the 2004 Theakstones Crime Writing flash fiction competition. Next David read another piece of his autobiography followed by Kathy reading a sitcom she had sent to the BBC. Then Joan read “The Forest Whisperer” about someone's reaction to the sound of the forest. Peter then read his supernatural story “Kelpie” and Freda read another section from her, fictionalised, biography of her family. Finally Kathleen read her story about a woman's love interrupted by an accident which caused her to lose her eyesight and become bitter. Reaction to all the stories was lively and many helpful hints were suggested by members.
Our next meeting, on 25th May, is the adjudication of the poetry competition by Rob Cowen.
Meeting of 27 April 2022
Our meeting of 27th April 2022 was a competition in memory of Chris Barnes.
John gave an introduction to Chris Barnes' history with the Writing Circle and then his family talked about some of his writing.
This was then followed by readings of the entries to the competition.
First Cathy read her piece 'And How Was Your Holiday'. Then John read Ann's poem Arachnophobia followed by Peter reading his piece 'Famous Two Figure It Out'. Next Helen read her piece 'Hammerhead' followed by Pat's story 'Hello Lass' read by Freda. John read his story, 'The Visit' followed by Peter and Denise reading Joan's play, 'Tickets Please'. The final piece was Denise reading her story 'Trip Adviser'.
And then John was declared as the well deserved winner as judged by the members of the Chris Barnes Family. The meeting was then rounded off by the Barnes Family presenting a light hearted literary quiz.
Our next meeting on 11th May is a Manuscript Evening and the last day for submitting entries to the Article Competition.
Details of our programme can be found online at https://harrogatewriterscircle.weebly.com/
John gave an introduction to Chris Barnes' history with the Writing Circle and then his family talked about some of his writing.
This was then followed by readings of the entries to the competition.
First Cathy read her piece 'And How Was Your Holiday'. Then John read Ann's poem Arachnophobia followed by Peter reading his piece 'Famous Two Figure It Out'. Next Helen read her piece 'Hammerhead' followed by Pat's story 'Hello Lass' read by Freda. John read his story, 'The Visit' followed by Peter and Denise reading Joan's play, 'Tickets Please'. The final piece was Denise reading her story 'Trip Adviser'.
And then John was declared as the well deserved winner as judged by the members of the Chris Barnes Family. The meeting was then rounded off by the Barnes Family presenting a light hearted literary quiz.
Our next meeting on 11th May is a Manuscript Evening and the last day for submitting entries to the Article Competition.
Details of our programme can be found online at https://harrogatewriterscircle.weebly.com/
Meeting of 13 April 2022
Our meeting of 13th April 2022 was a Manuscript Evening.
Acceptances announced were Peter's story 'Full of Stardust' on the 101word website, and a second prize in the Writing Magazine Epistolary themed story. Denise is on the longlist for Retreat West Themed Flash. And 100 Word Stories chose her entry for the monthly photo prompt competition to be published soon. Kathleen is currently in discussion with the editor of the 101word site in anticipation of her story being accepted.
Then members were invited to read some of their recent work. Helen read her poem 'The Hard Edge of Water'. Cathy read her poem 'The Actor.' David read a section of his biography which has been fictionalised. Freda read 'Encounter with a dog' about a dog and ice cream cone. Denise read 'Alive Alive Oh'. Joan read 'The Ever Changing Sea.' Peter read his story 'Letter From The Other Side.' Kathleen read her 101word story that she is currently making modifications to with the help of the 101word editor. Then Denise on the fear of driving. David continued his autobiography and Peter read his 100 word entry to the Readers Digest competition.
Our next meeting on 27th April is the Chris Barnes Humour Evening.
Details of our programme can be found online at https://harrogatewriterscircle.weebly.com/
Acceptances announced were Peter's story 'Full of Stardust' on the 101word website, and a second prize in the Writing Magazine Epistolary themed story. Denise is on the longlist for Retreat West Themed Flash. And 100 Word Stories chose her entry for the monthly photo prompt competition to be published soon. Kathleen is currently in discussion with the editor of the 101word site in anticipation of her story being accepted.
Then members were invited to read some of their recent work. Helen read her poem 'The Hard Edge of Water'. Cathy read her poem 'The Actor.' David read a section of his biography which has been fictionalised. Freda read 'Encounter with a dog' about a dog and ice cream cone. Denise read 'Alive Alive Oh'. Joan read 'The Ever Changing Sea.' Peter read his story 'Letter From The Other Side.' Kathleen read her 101word story that she is currently making modifications to with the help of the 101word editor. Then Denise on the fear of driving. David continued his autobiography and Peter read his 100 word entry to the Readers Digest competition.
Our next meeting on 27th April is the Chris Barnes Humour Evening.
Details of our programme can be found online at https://harrogatewriterscircle.weebly.com/
Meeting of 30 March
Our meeting of 30th March 2022 was a talk by Denise on flash fiction. Denise has been concentrating on flash fiction for a while and she has been very successful in placing her work in a variety of outlets.
She presented a great deal of information for members from the vast knowledge and skills that she has accumulated.
This included looking at the construction of flash from the word level, sentence level and text level. Then she showed a random word generator and how to access a website of objects hidden in museum basements which can become the start to a story. She also talked about techniques to use to control the pace of a story and how to use the 'Hermit Crab' technique to write a story in an unusual form.
There followed a series of questions and discussions which left everyone satisfied and enlightened.
Our next meeting on 13th April is a Manuscript Evening and the last date for submission to the poetry competition.
Details of our programme can be found online at https://harrogatewriterscircle.weebly.com/
She presented a great deal of information for members from the vast knowledge and skills that she has accumulated.
This included looking at the construction of flash from the word level, sentence level and text level. Then she showed a random word generator and how to access a website of objects hidden in museum basements which can become the start to a story. She also talked about techniques to use to control the pace of a story and how to use the 'Hermit Crab' technique to write a story in an unusual form.
There followed a series of questions and discussions which left everyone satisfied and enlightened.
Our next meeting on 13th April is a Manuscript Evening and the last date for submission to the poetry competition.
Details of our programme can be found online at https://harrogatewriterscircle.weebly.com/
Meeting of 16 March
Our meeting of 16th March 2022 was a competition for flash fiction. Acceptances were announced from Denise who had her story 'Off Track' highly commended in Free Flash Fiction and a story included in Ellipsis Zine Eleven literary magazine. Then the flash fiction entries were read out.
Cathy's apocalyptic story 'Adrift' showed the narrator coming across a series of messages of hope. Peter read 'Diana' about an obsession for a woman in a painting in an art gallery. Ann's story, 'Eyeballing', read by Joan, told of a woman changing into her party clothes while being observed by the venue's proprietor through the eyeholes in the wall. Pat's story, 'Friend or Foe', about the narrator's struggle with the draw of alcohol in the bottle, was read by Joan. Kathleen read her story, 'The Cold Eyes', about a grandson's painting whose eyes reminded her of a picture she had seen as a young girl. Then Miranda read her story of a small boy, 'Jason', at the Hillsborough disaster. 'The Mona Lisa Effect' was Denise's story about an artist's obsession with a waitress. Joan read her story 'War!' which introduced the realistic horrors of war. Next, Helen read her story 'Barebones' about a struggle of ageing robots to obtain human rights. Finally Freda read her piece 'The Rocking Chair', which reflected the passage of time on the changes to the rocking chair.
The results revealed Pat as the winner and Ann as the runner up.
Our next meeting on 30th March is a talk by Denise about flash fiction.
Cathy's apocalyptic story 'Adrift' showed the narrator coming across a series of messages of hope. Peter read 'Diana' about an obsession for a woman in a painting in an art gallery. Ann's story, 'Eyeballing', read by Joan, told of a woman changing into her party clothes while being observed by the venue's proprietor through the eyeholes in the wall. Pat's story, 'Friend or Foe', about the narrator's struggle with the draw of alcohol in the bottle, was read by Joan. Kathleen read her story, 'The Cold Eyes', about a grandson's painting whose eyes reminded her of a picture she had seen as a young girl. Then Miranda read her story of a small boy, 'Jason', at the Hillsborough disaster. 'The Mona Lisa Effect' was Denise's story about an artist's obsession with a waitress. Joan read her story 'War!' which introduced the realistic horrors of war. Next, Helen read her story 'Barebones' about a struggle of ageing robots to obtain human rights. Finally Freda read her piece 'The Rocking Chair', which reflected the passage of time on the changes to the rocking chair.
The results revealed Pat as the winner and Ann as the runner up.
Our next meeting on 30th March is a talk by Denise about flash fiction.
Meeting of 2 March
Our meeting of 2nd March 2022 was a manuscript evening.
New member Helen told us about what type of things she wrote. Denise read out her story 'A Rural Idyll' about the difference between town and country living, then a short story involving a ride on a merry-go-round. Cathy read out a few poems including one about the conflict between crows and kites and one about a traffic jam. Helen read a sestina poem about climbing and refusing to age. Peter read a short story about someone returning to his old school where his memories were not overall very pleasant and then a 101 word story about an encounter with a alternative version of himself. Joan read 'Bitter Sweet' about a coal miner who became an artist after he left the pit and had an exhibition in the village hall then a ghost story about Mrs Robinson who was a friendly poltergeist.
Our next meeting on 16th March is a competition for Flash Fiction. If you want details of our programme you can find us online at https://harrogatewriterscircle.weebly.com/
New member Helen told us about what type of things she wrote. Denise read out her story 'A Rural Idyll' about the difference between town and country living, then a short story involving a ride on a merry-go-round. Cathy read out a few poems including one about the conflict between crows and kites and one about a traffic jam. Helen read a sestina poem about climbing and refusing to age. Peter read a short story about someone returning to his old school where his memories were not overall very pleasant and then a 101 word story about an encounter with a alternative version of himself. Joan read 'Bitter Sweet' about a coal miner who became an artist after he left the pit and had an exhibition in the village hall then a ghost story about Mrs Robinson who was a friendly poltergeist.
Our next meeting on 16th March is a competition for Flash Fiction. If you want details of our programme you can find us online at https://harrogatewriterscircle.weebly.com/
Meeting of 16 Feb 2022
Announcement of acceptances had Joan and Denise shortlisted in Strand Flash fiction and Peter accepted in 101word magazine.
Our meeting of 16th Feb 2022 was a competition for 101word flash stories.
Denise read 'Down Bay' about a difficult lifeboat rescue. Then Freda with 'Safely Returned' about a character in her jigsaw. 'Wild Child' by Joan about the rebellious brother of the Brontës. John read 'Premature' about a woman booking a funeral - before her husband has died. Next Kathleen read 'The Responsibility of Abbreviating.' about the confusion between the Frost programme on the television and the weather outside. 'Just Thoughts' was Pat's story, read by Joan. It gave the narrator's ponderings about self awareness. Peter read 'A Sky Full of Stardust' about a grandmother's ashes being distributed atop a rocket. 'Tale of A Gardener' was Cathy's entry, read by Joan. It told of an initially small palm tree which grew uncomfortably large throughout the year. 'The Fight' was Miranda's tale of someone suffering an imagined attack. The final piece was Ann's story 'Subterfuge', read by Peter. It told of a woman's perm going wrong at the hairdresser but with serendipitous results.
The result of the voting was that John was the winner with Peter second.
Our meeting of 16th Feb 2022 was a competition for 101word flash stories.
Denise read 'Down Bay' about a difficult lifeboat rescue. Then Freda with 'Safely Returned' about a character in her jigsaw. 'Wild Child' by Joan about the rebellious brother of the Brontës. John read 'Premature' about a woman booking a funeral - before her husband has died. Next Kathleen read 'The Responsibility of Abbreviating.' about the confusion between the Frost programme on the television and the weather outside. 'Just Thoughts' was Pat's story, read by Joan. It gave the narrator's ponderings about self awareness. Peter read 'A Sky Full of Stardust' about a grandmother's ashes being distributed atop a rocket. 'Tale of A Gardener' was Cathy's entry, read by Joan. It told of an initially small palm tree which grew uncomfortably large throughout the year. 'The Fight' was Miranda's tale of someone suffering an imagined attack. The final piece was Ann's story 'Subterfuge', read by Peter. It told of a woman's perm going wrong at the hairdresser but with serendipitous results.
The result of the voting was that John was the winner with Peter second.
Meeting of 2 Feb 2022
Our meeting of 2nd Feb 2022 was a manuscript evening.
Peter was the first to read with his unfinished piece, 'All In The DNA', which told of a dystopian matriarchal society. Several members provided suggestions as to how the story could be completed. Then Cathy read 'Lute' about a young girl, Sycamore, searching for an instrument that suited her name as well as her musical ability. Joan read her story, 'Time Will Tell', about a bride who contemplates her future as she stares at her wedding dress and her impending marriage. Next Denise read 'Hidden Treasure', which told of a brightly coloured stone which metamorphosed into a tiny turtle. Then Freda gave us 'Jigsaw Joy', which described the competitive positioning of jigsaw pieces and the slow emergence of the characters and their activities in the partially completed picture. The last piece was read by Kathleen, 'The Moment Of Truth', about the main character's fear of water and her search for the roots of her phobia. At Kathleen's request, members gave suggestions about how the ending could be edited.
Our next meeting on 16th February is a competition for items of length 101 words. If you want details of our programme you can find us online at https://harrogatewriterscircle.weebly.com/
Peter was the first to read with his unfinished piece, 'All In The DNA', which told of a dystopian matriarchal society. Several members provided suggestions as to how the story could be completed. Then Cathy read 'Lute' about a young girl, Sycamore, searching for an instrument that suited her name as well as her musical ability. Joan read her story, 'Time Will Tell', about a bride who contemplates her future as she stares at her wedding dress and her impending marriage. Next Denise read 'Hidden Treasure', which told of a brightly coloured stone which metamorphosed into a tiny turtle. Then Freda gave us 'Jigsaw Joy', which described the competitive positioning of jigsaw pieces and the slow emergence of the characters and their activities in the partially completed picture. The last piece was read by Kathleen, 'The Moment Of Truth', about the main character's fear of water and her search for the roots of her phobia. At Kathleen's request, members gave suggestions about how the ending could be edited.
Our next meeting on 16th February is a competition for items of length 101 words. If you want details of our programme you can find us online at https://harrogatewriterscircle.weebly.com/
Meeting of 19 Jan 2022
This last meeting was our AGM. Joan Reed, Chairman, opened her report by saying that Pat Sutcliffe and Peter Caunt are the two winners for the year. Sadly we are losing one committee member, but fortunately this is balanced by welcoming a new member. All office bearers retain their roles. Following the AGM we had several manuscript readings. John Chilton read a Christmas story, Mrs Christmas Saves the Day; Tight Lines was by Pat Sutcliffe. Denise Bayes wrote Can We Have a Word?, and Joan Reed wrote The Photograph. Peter Caunt read Waiting for Kevin. Kathleen Manson read Move Over, Pauline. The next meeting on 2nd February is a manuscript evening. For further information on joining our Zoom meetings, please see our web-site.
Meeting of 5 Jan 2022
We began 2022 in our traditional manner with a manuscript evening. Freda Curley began with a story telling of her grandson starting school, then comparing his tuition with Freda’s early years of learning, and years later with her own methods of teaching. There was a quick change of mental environment when Denise Bayes read of her memories of her life in Africa with the Masai. She then read a story where a girl has been found crying on a piazza. Fortunately someone notices and comes and talks to her and helps her. Joan Reed read Hidden Eyes, a sad tale of a woman in hospital, about 1925, who learns that her husband has left her, and that she’s lost the baby she’s just given birth to. Joan’s next story was An Unwanted Journey. Peter Caunt’s story El Rio gave the interesting history of the Colorado River. Christmas was concluded with a short pantomime scene by Peter, Snow and her Two Companions – a take-off of Snow-white. The two odd companions ably helped Peter tell his comic scene. Our visitor Kathryn Asbury read the opening chapters of her book-in-progress, The Cold Beach Ball. This promises to be a very good book. Kathleen Manson read Behind the Curtain, which described the awe felt by a visitor seeing Niagara Falls for the first time when the volume is greatly increased with the spring thaws, and also seeing the falls from the natural platform behind them. She then read The Long Walk, a story of a woman with severe foot pain – only for the chiropodist to discover the huge fungal growth was just carpet fluff wrapped round a damp sweet! The next meeting on 19th January is the AGM, to be followed by manuscripts. We are still meeting by Zoom, and it is hoped as many members can attend on the 19th as possible.
Meeting of 8 Dec 2021
Although a busy time of year, some of us met (by Zoom) for our last meeting of 2021, reading stories and poems mostly with a Christmas flavour. Xmas Lullaby, a poem by Cathy Burwell opened our evening. Peter Caunt wrote The Sleeping Giant, certainly not Christmassy, but written as an anti-hero story for a magazine. The poem Finding Herself by Pat Sutcliffe was lovely. Santa’s Problem by Joan Reed was followed by her short story Music at Night. Kathleen Manson read her story First Night Nerves, telling of a man who had lost his sight years past, and now with sight restored was coping with the difficulties of bright lights and crowds at Christmas. The evening’s readings ended with a short anti-Santa skit by Peter, While Shepherds Watched. Although verging on the scurrilous, it was hilariously funny, and we all willingly took part reading the very clever script. An unexpected ending to our happy evening was a largeTeddy Bear who very ably recited ‘Twas the Night before Christmas. Teddy and his owner received warm applause.
Meeting of 10 Nov 2021
We had a manuscript evening, when various stories and articles were read out. Pat Sutcliffe read a beautiful article, In the Silence. Another article, more of a loving biography of a new grandson, entitled New Grandson, was read by Freda Curley. Denise Bayes read her story, The Powerful Magic of Couture, and followed this with a succinct and complete story in 32 words, Harvest Promise. Joan Reed then read in a genre normally not associated with her, a fantasy story, The Power Game. Peter Caunt read two of his stories – the first was an epistolary called Letter from the Other Side, and the second was a memory of Dad’s Walking Stick. Because our Circle now meets via Zoom, we obviously will not be having our usual Christmas Social where we each brought goodies and read Christmas writings. It has been changed. We are not meeting at all in December, and our last meeting this year is on 24th November when we shall (hopefully) all read our own ghost stories. Whether member, friend, or merely curious as to what we do, please join us. All stories (and their creators) are warmly welcomed. For more information, please go to our website.
Meeting of 13 Oct 2021
At our last meeting of the Circle Denise Bayes reported she has had a short story printed in a competition for under 101 words. Joan Reed received an Honorary Mention in a Morgan Bailey competition. This meeting was a Manuscript Evening, and there were several very good manuscripts read. Peter Caunt read his stories Lonley Cloud and Fast Learner. Denise read Vita’s Valentine; Alice, and also Benediction. Freda’s story was The Magic Window. Joan wrote Hallowe’en and also Poolside Blues. Kathleen Manson had a poem The Smile on the Train. Our next meeting on the 27th will be the adjudication of our Short Story Competition. While the members wait with baited breath for the critiques, all guests are very welcome. We meet by Zoom, and you can get full information from our web-site.
Meeting of 1 Sept 2021
The last meeting of the Circle was well attended, and we were delighted to welcome back two members whom we haven’t seen for some time. Our first reader, Lorna Foyle, read The Pier. This Boxing Day story tells of a woman leaving her solitary and frugal dinner, and walks along the foggy, slippery pier. At the end she gazes into the water but as she moves, slips and crashes down. Being alone, no-one is around to help, but she is aware of a kindly young man tenderly lifting her up. It is her long dead husband, and as she takes his hands, she is aware of her own old wrinkled skin looking many years younger, and hears her husband’s voice telling her that he has waited so long for her. Denise Bayes wrote Once upon a Flight Path describing the wonder of a little boy as he watches the majestic flights of birds on an aerodrome’s flight path. An article telling everyone about our Writing Circle since its inception in 1951, which hopefully is to be published soon by the Advertiser, was written and read by John Chilton. Our Stars by Miranda Hargrave spoke of the wild parties her parents had had, and also of the bruises her mother suffered from her drunken husband. Life was not perfect but they muddled through. Freda Curley read Chap. 2 of her family story set in the 1880s in Manchester. The Fox by Rose Marie Shaw remembered children being issued with gas masks during WWII. None of that in France by Joan Reed was a description of ornately decorated rooms, where the aristocracy danced. A British Summer of Love spoke of the wild love experienced by the young with their modern music, cheap wine, loving partners and long sultry evenings. The Mole by Kathleen Manson was showing a young lad the difference between a burrowing black mole, and a secret agent for a spy. Our next meeting is on 15th September. Please go to the Harrogate Writers’ website for all information.
Meeting of 18 Aug 2021
The Circle was delighted and privileged have Simon Whaley as our extremely interesting and informative speaker. Simon, a prolific writer and excellent tutor encouraged us from the beginning of his talk to take the initiative. He told us that in his early days he’d written a short “filler” story about dogs, which proved of such interest to his readers he was asked to make it into an article – which he did. Dogs are a popular subject, and a publisher asked for it. Simon then enquired whether x and y would be interested: they were. Through his experience he has discovered that many ideas can be gleaned from reading the weekend papers. A vital piece of advice is to watch your market, then approach the appropriate publisher; bearing in mind it is advisable to pitch your ideas to the publisher first before sending the manuscript. Although you’ll remember to ask the number of words required, don’t be shy in persuading any publisher that so many people out there will be really interested in your subject. When writing for magazines, know your subject in depth – if a place, then know that place thoroughly. The world is open to readers of every subject. A possible article can be scrutinised, then carefully turned into six! Time flew by with this very interesting and helpful tutor. Please go to our Writers’ Circle website for more information, and how to join us, at the moment by Zoom. Our next meeting on 1st September is a Manuscript Evening.
Meeting of 8 July 2021
At our last meeting we were delighted to welcome some visitors, and delighted that they shared their work with us. Delighted to hear that Denise Bayes’s Flash Fiction entry in a competition is to be published. The first manuscript read by Denise was The Geology of a Marriage. A couple celebrating their Silver Wedding Anniversary at a restaurant find that everyday difficulties are not forgotten as the wife tries to recapture the romance of her honeymoon. The husband answers simple questions with geological explanations and lecturer-like seriousness. Boredom escalates into anger, until exasperated at the non-co-operation of a rigid husband, she walks out. The next story was a chapter in the book by Pat Sutcliffe written at a client’s wish in which he describes his mental health issues and pleads for help, pointing out that others in the same situation have been helped: but not him. As this is a factual book, it certainly raises many social questions about our dealings with such complex issues. In Sepia by Joan Reed tells of a well-dressed lady awaiting her companion in a restaurant. Sadness and depression cover her as in her long patient wait she realises he is not coming. Memories flood back – and in he walks to the restaurant. Suddenly the lady realises the world is full of colour. A Man Named J by Luke Bradford told of Judith’s eventful journey from London to Paris and was very descriptive. Peter Caunt wrote A World of Spirits. A ghost is speaking to “you” who are circling around. As “you” fall your shell breaks and reveal wings. But “you” don’t see the ghost – it’s all memory. The ghost stands beside “you” suspecting that “you” are looking for the ghost but not seeing him. Then the last shadows fade away, and all the questions go unanswered. Lorna Foyle has written four intertwining stories, and read the first one, Treasure. This is about a man dying, and sadly the doctor confirms this. The last reading was by Freda Curley who read a poem about a teacher who comes inside, and who is wet and tired. The next meeting on 21st July is the adjudication by John Manning of the Article Competition. If you would like to attend our Zoom meetings, please go to the Harrogate Writers’ Circle Website.
Meeting Of 23 June 2021
One of our members, Peter Caunt, was the speaker at the last meeting, when his subject was Stories with a Twist. Peter is an excellent writer, and has been published in many publications. To start with, we who have had little luck asked if he ever received rejection notes – the answer is surprising: about four out of five submissions have been rejected! That says much for Peter’s determination and faith in his own work to keep on writing and submitting. He explained that to lift a story from the banal and obvious it needs a twist, a huge one, where the story pulls the comfy rug from under the reader’s feet. An example is when in a conflict (the story’s main subject) and matters appear to be resolved, a twist (always unexpected) turns out that there’s a new conflict facing the adversaries. But there are warnings about when not to use twists: making an animal your main character, or the whole thing turned out to be a dream. If you make your twist too complicated, you might lose your reader. Also, if you rely too much on your twist, you might detract from the main story. But all this shouldn’t prevent you from dropping hints along the way. Above all, we were told, plan: plan the story from start to end, and where you will place the hints and where to insert the twist. And have fun writing your next story! Our next Zoom meeting is on 7 July. For further information please go to our website.
Meeting Of 9 June
Our last meeting was Manuscript Evening, and many very good stories were read and shared. It is our way that we give our thoughts/advice on others’ writings only when requested, and this has proved extremely beneficial to many writers. Good news is also celebrated among our writing friends, and we were pleased to hear that Denise Bayes is on a short list for potential publication from publishers in New Zealand. Pat Sutcliffe has been Highly Commended for a recent work, and Peter Caunt is also on a short list in the Writing Magazine with a short story. Pat’s story of bad luck following all the intense preparations for Carols around the Christmas Tree. Then in a wink everything changed for the better – except the taste of the wine! Denise’s story was Cupcakes, all going in the wrong direction! The Patchwork Bag was by Miranda Hargrave. Joan Reed wrote The Old Coat, a very sensitive tale – if our clothes could speak! Peter Caunt’s Flash Fiction of 500 words was clever, The 5’oclock Shadow where a shadow appears all the time at 5’oclock on the word monitor word Shadow – until finally eradicated by the use of Tippex. He also read his article sent to Writers’ Forum on further ideas for saving work. The historical story, I Am Mary B by Kathleen Manson tells the tragic story of Mary Queen of Scots as told by one of the Queen’s Ladies-in-Waiting to her daughter-in-law. Our next meeting on the 16th is one where we give our (hopefully) accurate but kindly criticisms of others’ work. The following week we are having a talk by Peter Caunt, Stories with a Twist. All our meetings are on Zoom. Please go on our website for help in joining our group.
Meeting of 12 May
The last meeting of the Circle was one of reading manuscripts and a general discussion on writing. An unusual subject was tackled by Miranda Hargrave who wrote a poem on anorexia, The Grim Tea Party. Denise Bayes also read an unusual subject with her article, The Physiology of Scent. Denise also wrote The Lingering Power of Vinegar – the scent brings the downfall of a bit of a wastrel. We were taken back to WW1 in Freda Curley’s story about a young soldier dying and seeing visions of different people as he finally found his dead friend and lay down in peace beside him. A very moving story. Peter Caunt read Not Passed Over a humorous story written entirely in dialogue of Malcolm who has now “passed over” and Alice who is very much alive. This Has All Happened Before is the title of Joan Reed’s story of a modern-day Noah who is building an enormous ark, and chivvying the family all to do their bit. Mrs Noah is in charge of capturing two of every beast there is and bring them to their own quarters in the ark. The next meeting on 26th May is the adjudication of our Poetry Competition by Professor Paul Hardwick. If you would like to join our Zoom meeting either as a member or visitor, please email [email protected] and Peter will be pleased to help you.
Meeting of 28 April 2021
The last meeting of the Circle was one of happy enjoyment, which might sound strange as we were remembering our very able writing friend, Chris Barnes. Chris, who had been a loyal member of the Writers’ Circle for many years, was held in high esteem for his knowledgeable and well-written serious writing, and also loved and admired for his impish sense of fun. Humour seemed to pour out of him. After his death his loving family asked if something could be done to remember him – and so the Chris Barnes Trophy came into being. The theme was to write something humorous. And we did, even those who grumpily said, “I can’t write funny”. The adjudication of our humorous submissions was judged by Chris’s family, and we were privileged to have Helen, Jayne, Catherine and Richard with us at our Zoom meeting. Pat Sutcliffe wrote Is Anybody There? Freda Curley wrote Launching Rubber. This was followed by Mind over Matter by Joan Reed. The Height of Passion was by Denise Bayes. These were all stories. Two poems, Song to Sister Susie by Kathleen Manson, and The Chandelier by John Chilton came next, and our last one was an off-season offering by Peter Caunt, Three Kings – a hilarious sketch for 3 characters on the journey of the Magi to Bethlehem. And who can say if that one was not nearer the truth! We were all delighted that The Barnes family voted that Peter’s play won the competition. Our next meeting on 12 May is a manuscript evening, which means that members and visitors can read some of their own work, and if requested, get some feedback on it. It is also the last day to submit entries for the annual Article Competition. The theme is “What is New in Writing?” For more information on the Writing Circle please contact 500598 or 861263.
Meeting of 14 April 2021
As our last meeting was a Manuscript Evening, it was relaxing to sit back and enjoy listening to stories and poems. Pat Sutcliffe began the evening by reading part of the book she is writing on behalf of a long-serving Officer of the Law. This is very interesting and highlights the personal difficulties met every day by police officers. A Christmas story followed, written by Denise Bayes where the narrator found, after opening her front door with difficulty, that the floor was littered with fish & chip wrappers. Fortunately by switching on the tree’s fairy lights, this accelerated the 999 call to the police station, and soon the unwelcome visitor was removed. Joan Reed’s true-life story was of Ethel McNeive who was secretary to the notorious Dr Crippen. They were tried together at the Old Bailey, and McNeive supported Crippen to the end. After his hanging she emigrated to Canada. On her return to England she married Stan Smith, and to the end of her life wore her locket which carried two small photographs, Crippen and Smith. Joan also read Slim Chance the sad story of a popular, though fat, girl who decides to slim and get a boyfriend. But having lost the pounds she finds herself friendless. Eventually she goes back to her original diet, visits her old haunts – and finds all her erstwhile friends there. Cathy Burwell had a delightful comic poem, It’s Done Me In. Peter Caunt had a very tightly written story, A Long Walk. Young lad escapes from his bedroom window with bare necessities and joins his friend. They have quite an adventure, which turns into real work when they hear the lad’s older brother calling for help from deep in a ravine, having been pushed down by a group of older boys. Peter also read Love in the Time of Covid. A young man follows his dream girl, always sure that tomorrow she’ll turn round and finally see him. The complex story by John Chilton, The Biter Bit, was of six friends all called Dave. In their local was a man who prided himself on being a joker, but the Daves got their own back by confusing him. Drying the Clothes was a pantoum by Kathleen Manson. Our next meeting, also via Zoom, is the adjudication of the Chris Barnes competition on 28th April.
Meeting of 31 March 2021
Denise Bayes was our speaker, and gave a wonderful insight into the pitfalls which could, and can arise when writing Flash Fiction. Writing flash fiction is fragile work, in which the writer contracts a quantity of suggestions into something like 500 words or less. The power of implication is very strong, including the editing out and only implying much of what has to be kept. She also encouraged us strongly to attend courses and enter competitions. After her excellent talk, we had the following readings: Pat Sutcliffe read Brunwell which is part of her autobiography; Joan Reed read The Alley; The Fighting Fields was by Freda Curley; and Peter Caunt wrote A Walk in the Woods. The next Zoom meeting is on 14th April and is a manuscript evening. Contact Peter Caunt if you are hesitant about Zooming.
Meeting of 17 March 2021
We had an untried way of writing as a group – for our last meeting we were given the main theme which was to write a short story about obtaining a book (bought, or from library) which contained an old letter, and our task was to write about the contents of this letter. This produced excellent stories, all from slightly differing angles, and encouraged much helpful criticism. Denise Bayes wrote The Foolish Things, and told the sad story of Mary’s boyfriend who had gone to and returned from WW1. Mary felt rejected and abandoned and made another life. However after the death of her bitter mother, she discovered a letter from Connor from France declaring his love and proposing to her. This had been confiscated, never to be seen by Mary. The promise of a joyous life with her Conner was never fulfilled. Turning the Pages by Joan Reed tells of the book’s new owner finding a letter pleading for Help as she is being held prisoner, and gives the address. The narrator finds it, and for a second sees a woman at the window, before dialling the police. Civil war in E. Europe is the setting for Chain Letter. Peter Caunt wrote of a soldier hiding in bombed library ruins to escape a sniper. He takes a book to read while hiding and discovers a letter from a man who had also hidden there ten years earlier, but who had written a note giving his thoughts and requesting that any finder should also record his thoughts. The narrator does so, now being filled with renewed hope, then steps out to meet the future. Ann Carcas wrote Page Twenty which is a gripping tale of a girl finding a letter in a library book which demands an enormous ransom for the return of a kidnapped child. A friend comes to help her, but scornfully dismisses the letter, and burns it. Pat Sutcliffe wrote The First Edition. A lady spots a first edition of Chaucer’s Canterbury Tales in an old bookshop which is closing. She and the old owner agree a price, and the book is taken to its new home, where the lady discovers an ancient parchment. This looks like a letter from Chaucer to his wife Philippa Roat from Italy describing his travels. Thinking this might be a hoax, the new owner returns to the shop but it is no longer there. An elderly lady in the deli says explains the bookshop closed many years earlier but her mother had known the old owner, Mr Roet. In Dear Rosemary a primary school teacher buys a book of bird poetry for her Aunt. Inside is a letter dated at the beginning of WW2, and is from a nurse to her niece. The aunt has the same name as the teacher’s aunt, and the niece shares her name with the teacher. Co-incidence is so strong, plus a reference to a particular poem that the book is bought. The teacher then delights her young class with reading that poem. Cathy Burwell wrote A Legacy of a lady in her garden on her birthday. John Chilton’s Trapped was chilling as a note in a book bought in a charity shop said a woman and young family were trapped in the house by her violent husband. The shop owner explains that books go in and out the house via the kitchen door. With the help of friends, the family is rescued. The next Zoom meeting is on the 31st and is a talk by Denise Bayes, a well-published author who will talk on Flash Fiction.
Meeting of 3 March 2021
It was a manuscript evening at our last meeting, and there were several very good pieces of work. John Chilton give a eulogy about our friend Daphne Peters and her amazing output of children’s verse, reminding us that all the big publishers were pleased to use her work. He then read one of Daphne’s children’s stories, The Thirteen Cats, and followed this with two of his own stories. The Case in Question is where a young lady watching for her case coming round the carousel spots it, but it is grabbed by a man before she can reach it. Sadly she discovers it has his name on it! Nevertheless he offers her a coffee. African Grey describes a garden nursery where an African Grey parrot has taken up residence in a greenhouse. Denise Bayes read The Underground which was a comparison between the rich and the very poor, telling how a waiter in an expensive restaurant steals the unwanted birthday cake from a spoiled child and delivers it to a druggy/homeless girl lying in the underground. A Snippet, in Pat Sutcliffe’s saga of her humourously told life-stories, included her memory of having her ears pierced when 3-years old by her mother shoving a sucked-clean needle through each ear while it was fiercely being nipped to “anaesthetise” it! My Evening Out in London by Cathy Burwell reminisced about a meal in a Marrakesh Restaurant. Sadly she hadn’t taken her reading glasses, resulting in trouble in her menu choice. Shopping Around by Peter Caunt was the tale of an elderly lady, Doris, awakening from a nap to find her tea is cold. A smartly dressed social volunteer who owns the antique shop opposite Doris, calls to check on her, and appraises all the painting and collections. A friendship grows between Emily (with her garishly painted nails) and Doris, to the extent that when Doris doesn’t go to help in the shop, Emily goes over to Doris’s house, and finds she is having a fatal heart attack. Doris dies quietly. On opening her eyes again, she is delighted to feel young and well – but she must get rid of that nail varnish! Market Day by Freda Curley drew a beautifully vivid picture of an autumn market day in Manchester 1887. Kathleen Manson’s A Day’s Work described some of the characters and their foibles in a care-home with the ups and downs of life there – and the summing up, It’s Another Day at the Office. Our next meeting on 17th March is also a manuscript evening, but on the theme of a letter discovered hidden in a newly bought book. Again we’re meeting on-line. If you would like to join in, please email [email protected].
Meeting of 17 Feb 2021
Pat Sutcliffe was our speaker the last meeting, and her subject was Pros and Cons of Ghost Writing. Nothing to do with ghosts and ghoulies, but with the tricky occupation of a writer writing somebody else’s memoirs/story. Originally Pat had no intention to being a ghost writer (she had plenty of other things to occupy her day) but an email and a phone call changed the course of her life. In this occupation there is strong competition and there are lots of markets. One of the first Must Haves is a contract signed by both parties which will provide the security of the ghost writer, i.e payment for the book’s being “rewritten”, agreed percentage of sales; the word number comprising the length of the book (no sneaky wanting another six chapters!); and the important matter of having the ghost writer’s name on the published book. Should anything go wrong in the process, the ghost writer will have a termination clause within the contract. These are the guide-lines. The Pro-s of ghost writing is it pays well and you meet very interesting people; the Con-s are personality clashes, being committed to writing a book you don’t want to, and being attached to the phone as sometimes the writer feels you should be there 24/7. Nevertheless, Pat Sutcliffe thoroughly enjoys her work. The next meeting on 3rd March is a manuscript evening.
