As the sun set in a glorious pink sky over Ayr seafront, a group of intrepid writers gathered in the Mercure Hotel. Huddled together in groups, pens at the ready, papers were passed out. There is always expectation in the air as members get their first glimpse of these anonymous pieces of writing. As ever, the quality of the pieces shone through. Whether a poem or a short story was presented, whether a first draft or a piece from a writer’s ‘back catalogue,’ each piece was read, discussed and enjoyed.
Following on from two excellent evenings at the club, writers have been encouraged to develop their poetry writing skills. The poems on Wednesday night dealt with deep emotions, asking how we should live, how our soul is connected to the elements of our world, and how the poet visualises their anxiety. There was a poignant poem about the loneliness of a mother who longs for the company of her grown up children, wanting them to stay, just a little while. These poems were gratefully appreciated and two members read their work at the end of the evening.
The short stories were varied; a village plagued with the theft of cats, violence in a video store, and a sci-fi middle grade story well set up for an adventure with well described characters. Feedback was given in a positive and productive manner and the writers all left with ideas on how to further improve their pieces.
Feedback nights are a great opportunity to test out pieces of writing. Yes, writers have to be brave to present their ‘treasured babies,’ but sharing amongst friends gets writing out there into the open. Writing needs readers and this is the perfect opportunity to give this a go. Maybe next time, you’ll be brave enough to bring some of your writing along.
Fiona Johnson