2026 got off to a great start, with a packed first session of the year on Wednesday evening. It was a lovely way to begin the year, with familiar faces and newcomers alike coming along.
We began the evening by reviewing the individual writing goals we set last September, some of which had been accomplished, while others were still pending. Some members had been very busy, and it was inspiring to hear what they accomplished over the past few months.
We then set our individual writing goals for the coming months: writing more regularly; writing a new piece for entry into a club competition; and reading as a writer were among the goals set. Are we going to achieve them? All will be revealed in May when we review our goals… watch this space!
Next, we engaged in the weekly writing task, which got us thinking about how to ‘show, not tell’. Working in pairs, we thought of six words to describe what makes each of us unique, then spent ten minutes writing a scenario to ‘show’ this. It was a great exercise and one to remember when writing in the future.
After a short coffee break, which was full of chat and catching up after the festive break, we were lucky enough to have the opportunity to watch the short film Different, which has already won a Gold and two Silver Awards at international film festivals. 
The film was written and produced by club member Gail McParland. It was a powerful and emotional piece, and I think it’s fair to say the film was very much appreciated by the audience. 
Gail, and William Sampson, who directed the film, answered questions afterwards, and it was fascinating to learn how key elements of good writing, such as plot structure, character arc, and the use of symbolism to ‘show, not tell’, were present in the script.
Fiona McFadzean took up the ‘Last Word’ spot, reading a lovely Burns-inspired piece written by Ann Burnett. It was a fitting way to bring an inspiring and motivating evening to a close.
Bernadette Wardrop