There was a distinct air of excitement at the start of the AWC meeting this week – the attendees clearly expecting a high standard from those members who had agreed to present excerpts from their work which had been published over the previous year. An excellent turnout of members arrived for what transpired to be an inspirational selection of exceptional literary achievements.
The first to take to the floor was Stephen Cashmore who shared an intriguing excerpt from his novel, Three Into One Does Go. Stephen explained the novel was inspired by his first wife Margaret who died in 1997, the idea first blossomed 20 years ago and is a blend of memoir and fiction.
Marion Husband described the process leading to the creation of her children’s picture book, Is This The Way To Brodie Castle? illustrated by club member Maggie Bolton. Marion read the delightful book and described her recent book launch at Brodie Castle. This was followed by a reading by Kirsty Hammond from her short story collection, A Lullaby for The Warrior Maiden. The chosen story was an enchanting tale which carried the audience into a magical mystical realm.
An honorary member, Ann Burnett, was not able to attend this evening to present her novel, Last Journey, an insightful account of Ann and her late husband’s journey. Next Damaris West’s poem, To Leave Like Anne Boleyn was read in her absence. The poem is a heartfelt account of how Anne Boleyn met her death and Damaris’s hope for a similar experience when that time comes for her. (Without the execution part hopefully.)
Several members, including Chris Palmer, Maggie Morton, Linda Brown and Nigel Ward shared articles they have had published in Ayrshire Magazine. They highlighted the excellent opportunity for developing their craft that these articles have provided.
Rose McGregor presented her poem, In Mither’s Fitsteps. This poignant poem is a moving tribute to Rose’s late daughter Shaza. Rose described the steps to her creating the poem, which she read beautifully, and the ongoing impact the poem has for her. Next Tracy Harvey recited an excerpt from her evocative short story, Wickerman. Tracy’s rendition of the poem was highly entertaining. Last but certainly not least, Matt Richardson read his engaging flash fiction story, Listen. Matt provided an interesting account of the inspiration behind his story.
During this session the results of the latest competition, Scottish Short Article, adjudicated by Ann Burnett, was announced. Congratulations to the successful entrants; Carolyn O’Hara, Fiona Johnson, Matt Richardson and winner Linda Brown. The meeting was concluded with details of the next meeting, including a presentation by Sarah Skelton, Scottish Independent Bookseller.
Morag Cahir