Woking Writers Circle

A welcoming writing community where we share words and grow together and where creativity, feedback and encouragement come together

Category: Members

  • MINUTES OF WOKING WRITERS’ CIRCLE MEETING, ST MARY’S CHURCH HALL, HORSELL ON 19th of SEPTEMBER 2024

    Present: Tricia, Nathan, Simona, Alan, Harry, Liz, Sarah

    Apologies: Heather, Peter

    NEWS

    Liz presented a leaflet advertising the Poetry Hub, due to be launched at the Woking Library on Fridays

    READINGS

    SARAH read a piece titled ‘A Postcard from…’ inspired by her recent trip to Agatha Christie’s place which encouraged visitors to be in the moment and write. Sarah also encouraged the audience to guess where the ‘postcard’ location might be. Simona found it impressive how Sarah describes mundane events with such exciting vigour and Tricia noted that the language and turn of phrases are quite powerful and that Sarah is very good at observing people and making them come alive in her writing. Liz said she found the piece very delightfully physical and noted that Sarah is becoming bolder with her imagery. Harry loved the mix between comedy and imagery and said specific descriptions bring him back to his childhood. Alana pointed at some vividly specific descriptions.

    HARRY read some of his older poems and described them as having a darker vibe. His first poem, ‘Spotlight’ was discussed by the group to gain an understanding of some of the imagery. Simona noted that the use of some of the first-person pronouns disrupts the immersion. Sarah liked the concept of the poem but encouraged Harry to build on the poem and create a little bit more suspense. Hi Second poem ‘All consuming darkness’ was noted by Nathan as being in contradiction with his first poem. Nathan also suggested that due it’s length it could easily be used as a book extract. The group agreed that the sinister presence was felt in both poems.

    NATHAN’s poem, ‘Approaching judgment’ was well received by the group with similar feedback from Simona relating to the use of personal pronouns when generating the context of the poem. Tricia praised the poem as really powerful and liked the imagery of the last verse and noted it is almost not noticeable. Harry noted the poem being very anti-establishment with French revolution nuances and liked the transposition between wealthy nobles enjoying life before being ‘cut in half’. Liz said that Nathan’s strength comes from conciseness and that some words should be considered for removal. Nathan’s haiku, ‘Embers of love’ was discussed at length and the group offered some suggestions for making it even more powerful.

    TRICIA delighted the group with a draft of the next instalment of her Tanzania adventures. All of her pieces will be posted on our website, so please do give them a read!

    ALAN’s piece was aligned with the homework set at the last meeting and was titled ‘No unauthorised entry’. Harry loved the snappiness of the dialogue and noted that it almost sounds rhythmic, poetic, and that he would love to see it as s skit. Liz noted the piece as really effective and enjoyed that she could follow. Sarah suggested that the piece has some performative attributes.

    LIZ, inspired by a recent museum trip wrote a series of seasonal ‘Haiku from the Hogsback’ grounded in her experiences and memories on the family farm (Blackwell Farm). Simona said that while Liz is skilled at condensing experiences into haikus, she prefers Liz’ memories in a longer format as they add significantly more detail and connect with the reader much more. The group noted that perhaps Simona’s feedback comes from having already been exposed to Liz’s memoir work hence the strong preference. Nathan suggested that Liz can intersperse her memoir with haikus.

    Next meeting: Thursday, 17 October at 7.30

    Chair: Sarah

    Wine: Nathan

    Milk & Biscuits: Alan

    Minutes: Simona

    Homework: Absent friends

  • Member Spotlight: Liz Lennie

    Member Spotlight: Liz Lennie

    We caught up with Liz, one of our longest standing members, and discussed most things that keep her coming back to the Writers Circle.

    Liz joined the Woking Writers circle in 1998 after reading for a local writing group in our local library which she describes as ‘the most excellent, the best in Surrey’ while reminiscing on how there was no online information in those days. She recalls the format of a meeting being much as it is today, with news about writing (including any personal successes) followed by reading out new work for feedback. Sometimes a creative writing exercise was imposed but little time is available now for that in order to spend more minutes on reading the work. A homework topic is always suggested (the prerogative of the volunteer Chairperson of the evening) but no one has to do it.

    Over the years the number of members has fluctuated as now. Occasionally so many people turned up that feedback had to be restricted. On other days only one person turned up, such as a wife of a member bringing homework from a husband who was seriously ill in hospital. Motivation is one of our strong points.

    One thing she appreciated about the Circle is that members can volunteer for ‘jobs’ for each monthly meeting, including bringing refreshments and taking minutes (which are then emailed to everyone swiftly afterwards). Liz used to have to write them by hand (as she does all her creative words) but now prefers to bring milk and biscuits while others bring wine and spontaneous treats for the break in readings.

    Liz is currently working on two novels: Cereal Killer and Letters from the Wall (Hadrian’s Wall, Northumberland, 130 AD). After articles, short stories about holidays abroad and the odd poem that gripped her (from dancing to dementia), she now loves penning mostly short poems to fit in with her busy life. She has just self-published her first book, ‘Images: Water Gardens’ which she describes as a ‘beautiful pocket-sized collection of 10 haiku about nature and emotion’ based on a walk around the lovely Gertrude Jekyll gardens and idyllic grounds of Tylney Hall in Hampshire. Liz always has a few copies in her capacious handbag and can post 1 or 2 copies on request. Her book can also be found on the poetry shelves at Woking independent Lionsheart Bookshop.

    What keeps Liz coming to the WWC meetings, which she has seldom ever missed is the togetherness and support, great work and socialising over refreshments. She says, ‘the monthly reading meetings on the 3rd Thursday is always a highlight of my months and you can always contact a fellow member for further discussion’.  

  • MINUTES OF WOKING WRITERS’ CIRCLE MEETING, ST MARY’S CHURCH HALL, HORSELL ON 15th of AUGUST 2024

    Present: Keith, Tricia, Alan, Heather, Simona, Hillary, Liz, Nathan, Harry, Sarah

    Apologies: Peter

    INTRODUCTIONS:

    We welcomed our guest, Harry, with warm introductions and hope that he will continue to join us. Harry likes to write horror poetry, poems that make you feel uncomfortable, sometimes cosmic but in general quite modern.

    NEWS

    Alan’s short story ‘Temporary Accommodation’ was published in Gosnell’s Writers Circle – Circle of Friends June Publications. Congratulations Alan.

    Liz continues her marketing efforts of her recently published Haiku book, called ‘Images’. She was interviewed by Woking News and Mail and was very happy to relate her story.

    Heather requested collating a list of telephone numbers and email addresses and asked for group’s permission to circulate a list of emails to all active members. The telephone numbers will remain known only to officers with assurance that all GDPR precautions will be take.

    READINGS:

    HEATHER’s poem, ‘A longing for sky’ uses natural elements she felt connected to evoke emotional states. Hillary noted that although the poem appears simple it gets more and more complex as you read it and suggested that it would be suitable for publication. Hilary also suggested that the removal of some words might make the flow slightly better or in one breath. Liz thought that the poem was increasingly good wondering what ‘grasping unseen coils’ might mean to which Heather provided a brief explanation. Tricia noted that Heather’s long relationship with her environment coming to an end is well expressed.

    HILLARY wrote the continuation of a story she had brought in the past to the Circle. The story focused on how a black cat, ‘Sable’ came to live with a witch. Tricia noted that Hillary captured a really genuine voice for Sable. Heather appreciated the imagery of the muted ghastliness of the children and the cat’s discomfort and the emphasis of the cat walking alone. Simona liked the sensorial imagery, and the strength of the connection expressed. Alan noted that hinting of a pentagram which gave the environment a different mood.

    ALAN wrote a very short story on the homework topic titled ‘The Carrion Crow’ which focused on a dialogue between 2 characters having lost their opportunistic scavenging to an unknown third party. Tricia said that the story was very tight with Alan’s trademark twist at the end. And Heather was taken by surprise at the abrupt ending but noted the story was very good.

    KEITH’s poem, ‘Dunkirk’ centred around his father’s experience with war and the triggers which had brought the horrors back into his mind. Heather noted the poem being very powerful, particularly in describing the detachment of ‘war being televised’. Harry liked the juxtaposition between different generations and how desensitisation and vivid horrors were well executed. Tricia brought into discussion PTSD triggers and how this was well expressed in the poem. Sarah noted that the poem had a unique way of expressing the horror of historical events.

    NATHAN’s poem ‘Sunset eyes’ raised a few questions about the general topic of the poem which Nathan clarified to be about saving someone from attempted suicide. Hillary noted that the poem has very gothic vibes and that Nathan uses his words very creatively. Tricia liked some of

    the imagery, in particular the ‘salt eats at her thick coarse skin’. Nathan then read his new haiku which engaged the group in a lengthy discussion about the correct use of certain words, contradictions and how these may be resolved.

    HARRY’s poem ‘A bird flew’ was well received by the group. Hillary noted the sinister elements work very well and that the audience is engaged to unpack the poem. Simona commented that the protagonist appears almost unhinged in their need/ want of the bird and Tricia commented that the unattainable beauty concept is expressed really well. Heather said the poem was very clever and Sarah found it very interesting to visualise.

    LIZ wrote 3 poems inspired by her journey to Newcastle and titled the collection The Death of Great Ships. She read all three together and titled them: Part 1: The fighting Temeraire, accompanied by various visual aids including a £20 note (the note portrays J.M.W. Turner), Part 2: The Tyne Pride and Part 3:The Keyside near Newcastle upon Tyne. Hillary commented that Part 3 was a very 3-dimensional piece. Simona liked the historical elements of Part 2 while Tricia suggested that it could be possible to knit the 3 poems together into a grander piece. Other suggestions were made to enhance the first 2 poems through prose and lighter language. Sarah liked Liz’s performance and particularly the accent used.

    TRICIA’s piece was Part 2 of her recollection of her Tanzania trip, titled ‘Materoni Falls’. The group consensus was that the travel log is amazingly vivid and will be added to the website as a part 2.

    SIMONA read part of a chapter from her book, but she expressed dissatisfaction at the pacing and character engagement. Alan suggested removing some of the narrator commentary as it slows down the reader’s attention, Hillary encouraged rewriting the piece by identifying which elements achieve nothing in the chapter and comparing to the original piece. Other suggestions were mentioned to either not overburden the dialogues with reveals or conduct the reveals in a more natural way. Simona was grateful for the feedback.

    SARAH took the group through an artistic journey inspired by her walking tour of the Chertsey Abbey Museum. She outlined to the group the historical facts that make the Abbey special and then she read to the group a poem made entirely of haikus relating to the Abbey’s history. She then delighted the group by turning the poem into a song which she sang and recorded herself. Heather commented that the poem/song works beautifully and does not feel forced and enjoyed hearing the unravelling of the journey before enjoying the poem and song and that it really set the tone. Tricia noted that the poem works really well as a song and is almost pastural.

    Next meeting: Thursday 19th of September at 7.30 pm

    Chair: Tricia

    Minutes: Heather

    Wine: Simona

    Milk & Biscuits: Sarah

    Homework: Ups and Downs

  • Zanzibar

    Zanzibar

    One of our Circle members has recently been on a trip to Tanzania and has written a piece describing her experience, below:

    In Zanzibar the majority of people are Muslim. I didn’t realize the strength of Arab influence until I was told of their role in the trade of slaves and spices. In fact, the hotel we were staying at was once the palace of an Ottoman prince and looked like he had left lots behind. It felt like walking through an Ottoman antique shop with unusual bric-a-brac dotted all around and framed by  beautiful wood panelling inlaid with Islamic designs. The décor was indeed very palatial, especially the four poster queen beds  and mosaic shower trays.   

    The balcony was a different story. The Small space was wedged between two walls with only enough room for 2 chairs and a table with an opening at the end. Drops of water from the aircon unit were dripping down regularly, mostly on my friend’s head. They described the view as ‘the amazing metal roofs of stone town’ but that was must have been estate agent speak.  

    Visiting the night market was on our agenda and despite being inquisitive I did not ask for more details. The Market turned out to be full of fish and food stalls with skewers of every sort of fish you could imagine and sometimes meat as well. Generally, most of the stalls sold similar stuff, but they all wanted you to buy specifically from them. One guy realizing I was from UK said ”I’m Millwall, you buy from me”. It seemed ironic given their track record on diversity. 

    Drinks were also on offer but only fruit juices or soft drinks. Amazingly, when I said I didn’t drink those a young guy managed to conjure up a weird cocktail with a lot of vodka in it.  

    We had booked a trip to Chengu island, also known as prison island. In the lovely 30-minute boat ride, you could see how much Zanzibar depended on fishing. The weather was hot and balmy and our boatman, Abdi Morrocco, was a good and helpful guide, even though his English was limited. 

    I hadn’t told my friend that the island was home to a colony of peacocks and Aldabra tortoises which are giant and live a long time. The Oldest tortoise was 160 years old, but they had a little nursery with tiny ones too. I’m not in the habit of massaging 160-year-olds’ necks but as it was a rare tortoise I’d made an exception.  

    The history of the island was interesting as it was used as a holding place for rebellious slaves by the Arabs. The British later on turned it into a quarantine island, and now it is a tourist attraction. We made sure to go for a swim before departing. 

    Later on, we had the loveliest lunch, sitting in the sun and watching the sea, eating the freshest avocado and tomatoes on bruschetta, that I luckily didn’t break my teeth on and sipping a cool glass of white wine. Not long after we went to the beach on the east side of the island, the Indian ocean side. 

    The hotel was small and all on one level and our room overlooked onto the pool with glimpses of the sea, the sand and the restaurant. The room itself was fine, but the pungent  odor of disinfectant played havoc with my chest the first night. I made sure they didn’t use it after that first night. 

    Later on that day, we decided to walk down the beach to find somewhere to eat. The Fisherman’s was a very rustic place and at first it seemed little more than a shack just off the beach, but as you went further  back, it was welcoming and cozy. We ordered food and wine, which they probably had to rush to get from the local bottle store. Some guys rocked up with a guitar, drum and shakers and we were treated to some music, relaxing reggae in Swahili and English. The atmosphere was chilled and instigated some philosophizing, some dancing, enjoyment of great food, of lovely people. What a great start to the holiday. 

    I’ve always wanted to swim with Dolphins, but not in captivity and we found out that this could be done in Zanzibar. I had to weigh the price, the time and the ethics of doing it and after some convincing from the hotel staff I decided that I should do it.  

    I had to rise early but that was not a problem. I arrived at the place and managed to cadge a lighter (the airport took mine) and a sealed bottle of water. I set off in a boat and then 2 more boats joined ours. My boat was going quite fast, hitting the waves, bumping up and down. At one point the boatman said, “get in, get in, there they are” and I did, but was not too happy with the abruptness of the ride and signal. Plus, there were no dolphins. We drove a bit further and I asked him to stop and told him “I’m just going to swim for a bit”. I thought if the Dolphin wants to swim with me, they will come. To my surprise, one did. I told the boatman “That’s it” and he said, “you’re the boss”. I tried to make it as ethical as possible given the circumstances.  

    After the trip I managed to get back in time for breakfast. 

    Later, we went for a walk in the local town or village and after lunch, I went searching for a lighter, meanwhile my friend had been accosted by one of her work colleagues. It turned out she was DJ- ing at a restaurant just down the beach from us. Despite neither my friend nor I being into  deep house music, we agreed to have dinner with her when she told us the food there was excellent. It was a good night despite being interrogated by my friend’s colleague, but the deep house music did not fill us with deep joy.  

    We wended our way back and had a discreet glass of wine on our terrace. 

    The next day we were off to Maalam caves for a natural swimming experience. This was a very nature centered experience where you could snorkel and see fishes swimming amongst the rocks. Me and snorkeling are not generally compatible, but I could hold my breath long enough to see some. My friend loved it, and she spent ages face in water getting down with the flora and fauna. The were lots of other people there, and I thought they gave the birds a run for their money with their incessant chatter, almost chirping like. 

    After the swimming we had a lovely coffee, and I bought some lemon grass soap. Back at the hotel we both fancied a burger for lunch despite my liking for fish and always saying I need to eat more, but we had eaten fish nearly every day. After lunch, our stroll down the beach led to me getting an hour long massage for less than £10.00 from Mamma Africa. 

    On our last night we went to Mr Kahawa’s, which I later discovered means “coffee”. I was also told that “kafi” means to hit or slap someone, which was slightly confusing but since I order coffee a lot, I should probably remember this. Since I’d had a burger for lunch, I decided to be good and have a couscous salad. 

    The setting was beautiful, watching the waves of the warm ocean lapping on the sand whilst listening to The Rolling Stones, which started us on a nostalgic musical journey. We have very similar tastes in music, and it made me realize how lucky I’ve been to see the bands that I have seen. 

    I woke up very early the next morning and saw a strange cloud that rose up like an anthill. I then went right down to the front of the restaurant to see the sun rise and I was joined by a young German girl who was there to watch it too. It was quick but stunning and made me realize how close to the equator we were. It gets light and dark at the same time every day of the year. No short or long days. 

    We chilled by the pool until it was time to go to the airport and fly back to Arusha. 

  • MINUTES OF WOKING WRITERS’ CIRCLE MEETING, ST MARY’S CHURCH HALL, HORSELL ON 20th  JUNE 2024

    Present: Keith, Liz, Alan, Nathan, Simona, Olivia, Heather

    Apologies: Sarah, Trisha, Peter, Hilary

    Welcome: Olivia

    News  

    Liz has published a book of Haikus and has been attending various venues where she has sold a number of copies.

    Liz has returned from a greatly enjoyed trip to Newcastle and also caught up with Greg Freeman, a long-standing stalwart of WWC before moving to Northumberland.

    Regular Events for Poets

    Write-Out-Loud open mic: The last Thursday of every month (27th June) at the Fiery Bird, Goldsworth Road, Woking, GU21 6JT (next to the Fire Station). Large free car park. Event starts at 7pm, but please try to arrive around 6.45 to put your name down for reading. The cost is £5, payable in cash, and hot drinks are available, price £1.50.

    Write-Out-Loud open mic Zoom meeting: Arranged by Greg Freeman, dates advised on monthly basis. Meetings start at 7pm.

    Lionsheart Bookshop: Lionsheart have generously welcomed WWC poets to read in the first half of their poetry evenings, held on the last Saturday of each month, (29th June) starting at 7pm. Food is available but should be ordered beforehand.

    Introducing Olivia

    A warm welcome was extended to Olivia, who was invited to tell the group about herself and her writing. Olivia writes poetry and prose, serious and comic, and is a regular performer at various open mic events at the Fiery Bird.

    Readings

    Simona read a further instalment of her momentous Kilimanjaro trip. The writer is having a conversation with herself about the nerves and excitement felt during the preparation for the last leg of the climb. The remarkable thing about this piece was the fact that tension was maintained throughout all the practical details of the preparation; the desperation about getting some sleep was particularly vividly conveyed.

    Keith contributed 2 poems, focusing on his love of cricket and football. The first poem, War and Peaceful Pastime, illustrated the contrast between village green cricket and the game played at a faster pace. The humour of the away team being fed too many scones was appreciated. These poems were greatly enjoyed, with discussion about the ‘lost England’ quality of village cricket and memories of the fast bowling of Andy Roberts. Keith’s second poem was about his involvement with Southampton football club when, having done well in the selection process, he decided the accompanying violence/bullying wasn’t for him. It was suggested that some of the metaphors could be strengthened by shortening the lines and intensifying the language.

    Nathan’s enigmatic  poem, Lilacs and Laments, was very well-received. A complex piece, expressing strong emotions, it stimulated quite a lot of discussion, and there was debate about the importance or otherwise of grammatical correctness in poetry. As usual, Nathan also presented a haiku, Sunshine, which was enjoyed.

    Olivia read 3 pieces. The first, Dawn Rises over the Serengeti, was very amusing. The feedback from the group included the advice to read more slowly to enable the listeners to fully appreciate the humour. What if I Never Met You? was inspired by Sliding Doors and reflected the ‘what ifs’ of life. This was a thoughtful piece, humour often emphasising rather than detracting from the strength of feeling. The last piece, Make me Forget my Name, was virtually a prose poem and contained some beautiful lines, including the last line, ‘…in that moment, I became someone that both of us could love.’

    Alan’s short story, About Face, was inspired by the homework subject of ‘Smiles’. Pace and tension, the usual Alan hallmarks, were very much present and the story succeeded in securing the listeners’ involvement in a story contained in just one side of A4.  The story features identical twins – one pleasant, one ghastly – but the denouement is so skilfully handled that this explanation still came as a satisfying surprise.

    Heather contributed a poem, Hardwired, which sought to capture the indelible nature of memory when a traumatic event occurs. It was generally agreed that the poem succeeded in doing this, but there was much useful discussion about the appropriateness of the title. (The poet’s grasp of technology being flaky, to put it mildly, she has since changed this to Etched in Seconds and drawn a comparison with the ‘pastel  prettiness ‘ of earlier memories. Just saying!)

    Liz used her time to talk about her northern trip, which included two poetry performances. She was keen to discuss the content and the format for recording these vivid memories. The group enjoyed hearing about Liz’s journey and her infectious enthusiasm, appreciating the nostalgia flowing from revisiting old haunts and seeing people not seen for many years. There was a feeling that Liz could make more information available to the reader/listener as they were not with her on her journey.

    Next Meeting: Thursday, 18th June at 7.30pm

    Chair: Nathan

    Minutes: Simona

    Milk and biscuits: Liz

    Wine: Heather

    Homework: Scavengers

  • MINUTES OF WOKING WRITERS’ CIRCLE MEETING AT ST MARY’S CHURCH HALL, HORSELL ON 16 MAY 2024

    Present: Peter, Heather, Simona, Nathan, Tricia, and Alan

    Apologies: Sarah, Keith, Liz, Hillary

    ANNUAL GENERAL MEETING

    Our Chairperson, Peter welcomed everyone and asked that the previously distributed minutes of our previous AGM be approved; all present approved the minutes with no changes.

    1. The Chairperson’s report fondly outlined the member contributions since the previous AGM. Heather requested that the minutes record how much the Circle valued Peter’s chairmanship, a sentiment echoed by everyone else in the room.  
    2. Treasurer’s report was given by Heather in Hillary’s absence. The financial statement showed a positive opening balance and a closing balance higher than the starting position, to everyone’s surprise. Sufficient funds exist to see us through to the next round of membership fee collections. This instigated the conversation relating to membership fees which Peter pointed out might rest solely on our decision to continue in the current venue. For the time being it was agreed that fees would remain at £35, same as previous year.
    3. Members are slightly displeased with the lack of heating in colder months and the collection of keys can be tenuous sometimes. The suggestion agreed upon was that the members will be looking for a new venue before autumn at which point membership fees will be revisited. It was further discussed where a December meeting would be required as a social might be more welcome. The vote for a decision was raised and the motion was seconded and passed unanimously.
    4. Website Review – Simona presented some statistics around the website traffic and the lack of material to attract traffic. Simona also noted that attracting new members may be more successful on social media platform linked to the website. It was agreed that:
      1. SM will prepare a website plan with objectives.
      1. SM will request input from each member individually for their contributions.
      1. SM to collate various tips on writing from members.
    5. Election of committee members:
      1. Chairperson: Liz nominated Simona, Heather seconded, all votes in favour. Simona will become the new Chairperson of the Woking Writers Circle.
      1. Heather agreed to remain in her position as secretary. All votes in favour and Heather remains the Woking Writers Circle Secretary.
      1. For the Treasurer position it was agreed that Heather will reach out to Hillary to confirm if she would like to continue. If she would not like to continue Tricia has been nominated to fill this position with everyone voting unanimously for the motion.
      1. Liz has been nominated by Simona as the Community Liaison in recognition of her efforts in engaging the Writers Circle in various community events. The motion was passed unanimously.

     AOB:

    Liz has been in contact with Woking News and Mail about reinstating publications from the Woking Writers Circle, but they have rejected Liz’s proposal for submitting poems due to formatting issues. WWC will try to engage Woking News and Mail via our website publications.

    With no other matters to discuss, Peter closed the AGM.

    RADINGS:

    Alan wrote a short story on the homework theme, ‘Dilemma’ called  ‘Exclusion zone’. The Story starts in the midst of a heist’s technical preparation, right at the trigger point where the original plan requires adjustments. The story does have the usual twist we’ve come to enjoy with Alan’s stories which was praised as neat. Simona enjoyed that the pacing of the story gripped more than usual due to it starting with the trigger as things were set into motion from the start. Heather said that it is very hard to pace a story just with dialogue, but the Alan has done it well. Peter commented on Alan’s choice of character names and how they make it easier to remember.

    Nathan wrote a poem in a hazy state of mind called ‘Resolve’ that is centred around the feeling of helplessness when stuck in a cycle of depression but being fortunate enough to know that better days are coming. Heather noted that the use of ‘self-fulfilling prophecies’ may almost be a cliché and perhaps Nathan can pivot around a word with a stronger meaning, but Liz thought the use of the wording may be appropriate. Liz said that this poem is the kind of poem she would expect to find in a ‘self-help’ book. SM appreciated that Nathan could tap into such strong emotions and was able to convey them succinctly. She also noted that there is always a glimmer of light in Nathan’s poetry. Alan said it reminded him of Laurie Lee. Nathan also read a haiku which prompted a discussion around the potency of the imagery.

    Heather’s poem ‘Another spring’ was described by Peter as an antidote to the joys of spring. Liz appreciated the strong imagery but found it inducive of negative thoughts with such an imaginative approach to describing spring. Heather finds the changing of the seasons quite unsettling (particularly spring and autumn), stirring memories and feelings. Tricia agrees with the uncertainty of change. Alan stated that the poem captured the horrible dream like way of the changes, a horrible distortion of time mired with intensity. Liz finds the line ‘messy urgency of May’ gripping.

    After the break, Peter opened for announcements and Heather noted that there will be no Lionsheart bookshop event this month. Lionsheart also offered a space on their table at Shynefest for the writers of the WWC to showcase their work.

    Liz did not read any piece, but she engaged the group in a discussion surrounding the difficulties of self-publishing while also asking for advice on cover artwork. Liz intends to publish a small pamphlet of haikus in preparation for Shynefest. We wish her success in her endeavour.  

    Tricia wrote a poem in line with the current homework but with no current working title on the agony of seeing a loved one die. The poem perfectly outlines the duality of feeling relief at a loved one’s passing after a long decline but made problematic by the guilt felt afterwards at wishing the process to rush by. Heather agrees there is a lot of truth in the poem and Peter asks what the poem helped Tricia achieve in writing it. Tricia wrote the poem to express her sympathies with her neighbour’s life events but also reminded Tricia of some of her similar life experiences. Heather felt the strength of the poem.

    Next meeting: 20th of June

    Chairperson: Alan

    Homework: Smiles

    Milk & Biscuits: Simona

    Wine: Nathan

    Minutes: Heather

  • The Vanity of Small Differences – At The Lightbox, Woking until 7th July 2024

    The Vanity of Small Differences – At The Lightbox, Woking until 7th July 2024

    Grayson Perry’s Tapestries

    Grayson Perry’s large and vibrant tapestries are currently on display in Surrey at The Lightbox, Woking, flooding the main gallery with colour.

    The six tapestries, each measuring 2m by 4m, tell the story of Tim Rakewell as he embarks on a journey of twenty-first century social mobility. A familiar story? Indeed. Tim Rakewell’s journey is inspired by William Hogarth’s A Rake’s Progress, (c1735).

    Grayson spent time in Sunderland, Tunbridge Wells and the Cotswolds for the Channel 4 series, All in the Best Possible Taste. He incorporated many of the characters, scenarios and objects he encountered in these contemporary scenes, exploring the British preoccupation with social class and what is perceived to be good taste.

    The Agony in the Car Park

    Also inspiring the various scenes depicted are a wide range of works from artists as diverse as Bellini and Gainsborough. 

    Most visitors have found it helpful to watch the short video before viewing the tapestries as the references to the other works of art undoubtedly add interest to the experience.

    Having spent a considerable amount of time in the company of the tapestries as a Lightbox volunteer, I can honestly say I have felt fascinated and uplifted – not only by the tapestries themselves, but also by the reactions of visitors. People of all ages have spoken of their delight in these remarkable works and many have returned for a further visit, bringing friends or simply coming for another look in order to absorb the allusions and complexity of each scene.

    There is a refreshing inclusivity and vigour about Grayson’s art and the enthusiastic response to the exhibition confirms that this message has been fully appreciated.

    Heather Cook

    Upper Class at Bay

  • MINUTES OF WOKING WRITERS’ CIRCLE MEETING AT ST MARY’S CHURCH HALL, HORSELL ON 18th APRIL 2024

    Present: Tricia, Liz, Alan, Nathan, Simona, Heather

    Apologies: Sarah, Keith, Peter

    AGM

    The next AGM will take place on 16th May 2024 at 7.30pm. The previous AGM was held on 17th November 2022 and Minutes of this meeting are attached for information. The AGM will be held immediately before the usual Readings meeting.

    There are important matters to be resolved, including the appointment of officers, future meeting venue arrangements and subscriptions.

    It is intended to circulate a financial statement and an email concerning the appointment of officers before the AGM so that matters can be dealt with speedily on the night.

    Future Library Event

    The sub-committee – Tricia, Liz, Simona, Keith and Heather – plan to meet via Zoom before 16th May to discuss having a WWC table at Woking Library, possibly in May and September. Simona agreed to email sub-committee members to agree a date and to set up the meeting.

    News

    Liz reported that the Book Group would be reading MAUS, a graphics book recommended by Lionsheart Bookshop, or a book chosen by the reader. The next meeting would be on 24th April 2024.

    Alan and Heather had respectively sent a flash fiction piece and a poem to Barbara Gurney at Gosnells Writers Circle in Australia in response to a request for submissions. These would be published in the May newsletter.

    Regular Events for Poets

    Write-Out-Loud open mic: The last Thursday of every month (25th April) at the Fiery Bird, Goldsworth Road, Woking, GU21 6JT (next to the Fire Station). Large free car park. Event starts at 7pm, but please try to arrive around 6.45 to put your name down for reading. The cost is £5, payable in cash, and hot drinks are available, price £1.50.

    Write-Out-Loud open mic Zoom meeting: Arranged by Greg Freeman, dates advised on monthly basis. Meetings start at 7pm.

    Lionsheart Bookshop: Lionsheart have generously welcomed WWC poets to read in the first half of their poetry evenings, held on the last Saturday of each month, (27th April) starting at 7pm. Food is available but should be ordered beforehand.

    Merrist Wood College, Worplesdon

    Lionsheart Bookshop have very generously agreed to give WWC members space on their table for publicity leaflets, publications, etc. at Shynefest on 31st May. More information to follow.

    Readings

    Nathan read his very enjoyable poem, Everyone Else is an NPC, educating several members of the group even while they were laughing at the humour in the piece. (Apparently, an NPC is a Non-Playable Character in gaming language.) The rhyming scheme worked well as did the scansion and the self-mockery in the last 2 lines were very clever and much-appreciated. Nathan also contributed one his skilful trademark Haikus, The Process, which captured the idea that by nurturing a flower, it blooms twice – a reflection of the old Japanese proverb along the lines of, ‘He who chops wood, warms himself twice’.

    Heather contributed 2 poems, both of which drew on the homework subject, Perception. Viewpoint was about a visit to a care home to see a much-loved friend in the advanced stages of dementia. The poet was distressed by the care assistant blowing iridescent bubbles in front of her friend, this childish activity contrasting with her memories of her friend before she became ill, but realises in the end that she herself needed to change her viewpoint. A Trick of the Light spoke of the magical effects of evening light on a journey home and the contrast between the poet’s delight and the driver’s irritation with the driver in front.

    Alan’s story, The Dimmer Switch, was a rich concoction and contained many of Alan’s brilliant descriptions, including ‘peering like an agitated woodpecker’, ‘resigned hiccup-come-shrug’ and ‘splay-footed two-left-wellied heartiness’. The story uses garden plants to great effect and the story was, as usual, extremely clever and hugely enjoyed.

    Liz spoke of her ambition to publish a small book this year, probably containing Haikus. There was lively discussion about a possible title, with Images featuring prominently. Liz had brought along a prop almost certainly never previously featured at a WWC meeting – a slice of Gala pie. There were interesting thoughts around the table as to what members saw in this, with suns, moons and eclipses being favourites. Liz then read out a Haiku inspired by the pie, proving beyond doubt that a real writer can find inspiration in anything!

    Next Meeting: Thursday, 16th May at 7.30pm

    Chair: Peter Morley

    Minutes: Simona

    Milk and biscuits: TBA

    Wine: Heather

    Homework: Dilemma

  • Minutes of Woking Writers’ Circle Meeting at St Mary’s Church Hall, Horsell On 22nd March

    Present: Heather (chair), Liz, Peter, Nathan, Simona, Tricia, Keith, Sarah DD, Alan (minutes),

    Apologies: Hilary

    News:

    Peter announced his intention to step down as Chairman of WWC, as he feels that it is time for someone new to take the group forward. He intends to remain a member, but feels that others may be more effectively focused on the proposed introduction of various extra-mural activities. This, combined with his greatly increased emphasis on his competitive rowing, led to his decision.

    Heather then asked if an AGM would now be appropriate, to which Peter responded by recommending this as the means of electing his replacement. It was therefore agreed to seek nominations for a new Chair, with the facilitating AGM to be held in the near future, May being considered a likely time.

    Liz reported that the book group had read Monseignor Quixote by Graham Greene. Opinions as to its merit varied considerably.

    Readings: The homework theme was “Equinox”.

    Tricia chose to discuss various possible plot themes instead of reading. A hierarchy of minor Greek Gods had attracted her as a promising subject, insoired by this month’s homework theme of equinox. Combining the Greek deities with an earlier homework theme of controversy gave her the idea of a somewhat dystopian solution to future overpopulation problems. Either everyone went to sleep, thereafter failing to reawaken, or more sinisterly, only a selected subset did so. This latter variatiion prompted Alan to draw parallels with Nietzche. Tricia asked for further suggestions; Peter suggested simply writing spontaneously. The Gods having been on another planet also occurred to Tricia, whereat Heather suggested that arriving at an outline for the next meeting might offer an effective intermediate step.

    Keith read two poems. The First, Johan, was a lively debunking of a typical self-styled “Jack The Lad” type. All admired the flow and cohesion of the piece, together with the volume and verve of the rendition. Liz was particularly taken with the old-fashioned language and vocabulary.

    Keith’s second poem, Caroline, could hardly have been more different in style, mood or construction. It was based on his memories of a former sweethaeart who had suffered abuse as a child. Everyone was struck by the depth of feeling and emotional power of the piece. The underlying theme was Caroline’s overcoming and moving on, strengthened if scarred. Liz admired the sparing use of rhyme, together with the emotional intensity. Simona admired the treatment of faith and courage, while Heather was taken with the emotional frankness and sincerity. Given that Keith was expressing how Caroline’s feelings had effected him, all appreciated his willingness to share such intimate experience. Tricia admired the range of styles demonstrated by the depth and raw emotional honesty of the second poem, contrasted with the deliberate superficiality of the first.

    Simona read part of the notes on Day 1 of her six day Kilimanjaro trip. The introduction featured Simona’s anticipatory nightmares and anxiety prior to the climb. Heather admired the vivid descriptions and sense of pace. Everyone admired the dismissive laconic dialogue whereby Chris simply confirms and thereby amplifies her fears. Simona explained that although some of the later sections of this piece were more intense, the anticipation of the climb had effected her most dramatically, both experientially and in terms of her subsequent writing. The compulsion to reduce the remaining time before a pre-ascent meeting with the climb guides affected her very deeply. Alan suggested emphasising the duality of her desperate attempts to remain calm, as opposed to her natural tendancy to panic. Discussion then turned to potential markets for the finished piece. Peter noted that the emotional reactions provided an entirely separate source of marketable material from any potential travel article material. All eagerly anticipated further installments.

    Nathan read a poem called Planted and a Haiky entitled Stubborn Beauty. “Planted” was written while sitting in his grandmother’s garden. The poem effectively wove a false sense of security with the initial natural images, before the malign effects of the narrator’s unexpectedly assumed role lead to the final mea culpa.

    The Haiku “Stubborn Beauty” achieved quite a different form of emotional contrast, enhanced by the intrinsic brevity of this poetic form. Nathan’s last line, “But the Earth refused”, was greatly admired. Keith wondered whether the red rose being refused by the stubborn earth was a metaphor for rejected love, as a red rose is a commonly symbolic declaration of suitors’ affections. The group wondered whether Sarah could set both poems to music.

    Heather read “The Visit”, a deeply empathetic observatiion of the changes wrought by time on her aunt in North Devon. Delightful imagery and allusion abounded, as usual with Heather’s poetry – “foxgloves nudging train-cramped legs”, “hovering by bright fuchsias in the porch”. Sarah admired how Heather’s love for her aunt came through so strongly, despite never being explicitly mentioned. Nathan admired flow and softness conveyed by Heather’s writing. Heather then mentioned her aunt’s albeit utterly non-technical fascination with astronomy, most originally reflected in her pre-sleep musings about “long dead stars wandering sightless through the heavens”.

    The piece de resistance was Heather’s totally unexpected revelation that this was an “ABC” poem, (of which your amanuensis had never heard, not being a poet). No one had spotted this strutcure, greatly pleasing Heather, who correctly concluded that its remaining undiscovered showed that her poem wasn’t contrived.

    The readings were paused, after the break, to allow for:

     A discussion of Proposals for Future WWC Events

    The underlying objective was to identify and arrange events to attract new members, following a circulation of ideas by email initiated by Heather prior to the meeting. Tricia Liz, Simona and Heather form the current Working Group. It was discovered the Fiery Bird in Woking may be hired for a WWC event, alternatively, participation in one of that Lionsheart Bookshop’s events could be considered.

    Heather summarised the feedback thus far: 

    1. There is currently no great enthusiasm for a WWC event, so Heather suggested shelving the idea of a specific WWC poetry and Prose “open mic” event, at least for the time being.
    2. Heather then proposed that the Working Group revisit ideas for other types of venues and events. Woking Library appeared to have recruitment potential.
    3. Keith suggested a display of WWC work at the library. 
    4. Liz suggestedapproaching the library about WWC having a table display. A one-day event was considered, but longer durations were also a possibility.
    5. Tricia agreed to email Peter, to obtain his contact at the library, in  order to liaise with them, to attempt to arrange dates and details of a table and possible displays.
    6. Simona will look at marketing materials, posters, etc..
    7. Liz mentioned a Surrey-wide internet portal that allowed groups to advertise their presence.
    8. It was agreed that the Working Party will consider all these ideas.
    9. Keith will join the Working Party and was welcomed as a new member thereof.

    Sarah read three pieces.

    The first was a poem, “Sean Henry Sculptures in Woking”. All admired the concept, vividly expressed, of the subtly anthropomorphised figures actually relating to and participating in their surroundings. This was a very original treatment, dramatically different from many renderings of such subjects, that seemed the more lively and dynamic for the contrast.

    The second, “Equal Night”, was a media piece comprising her voice-over of her poem “Equal Night”, with a beautiful and most professionally crafted astronomical back ground of cloudscapes, astronauts on the moon, constellations and extra-terrestrial images of earth. Everyone admired the consummate professionalism of the seemless integration of image, music and voice, with Liz hailing Sarah as having taken the group into a new era of media and music.

     Finally, “Enchanted” was a poem read to a background of recorded blackbird song, dedicated by Sarah to Liz on the occasion of her 80th birthday. This was another delightfully original and atmospheric piece, with Sarah’s voice and the avian accompaniment in skifully achieved acoustic balance. 

    Liz began by noting that spring often inspires her to compose Haikus. Another source of material had been Sister Wendy Beckett’s book “Meditations on Peace”, which afforded considerable encouragement. Liz then read five Haikus set on the Basingstoke Canal, which ranged in time from the start to the end of the day. Richly crafted, skilfully compressed imagery from the canal surroundings found a most appreciative audience. “Duck Pond Morning”, based on a recent break at Tylney Hall, contained some intriguing observations of the apparently scatter-brained behaviour of herons. Tricia admired the images that conjoured the idea of spring growth, leading to a discussion about emphasis and punctuation. Liz explained how she enjoyed choosing the few words allowed in the hiku form.

    Alan read “The Age of Enlightenment”, a short story about a group of archaeologists battling to excavate enough remains of an archaic computer, before the bulldozers moved in to trash the site. This back story was considered by some to require more emphasis, together with the underlying technical definitions. Alan agreed to circulate the story, to see if clarification might actually have already been achieved.

    Next meeting: 7.30 on Thursday at St Mary’s Church Hall, Horsell on 18th April 2024

    Chair: Tricia

    Minutes: Heather

    Wine: Nathan

    Milk & Biscuits: Simona

    Homework: Perception

  • Minutes of Woking Writers’ Circle Meeting at St Mary’s Church Hall, Horsell On 15th February 2024

    Present: Peter, Tricia, Heather, Liz, Keith, Alan

    Apologies: Nathan, Sarah, Simona

    Future WWC Event:

    The Working Group – Liz, Simona, Tricia and Heather – had for a variety of reasons been unable to meet, but had summarised some basic points for members to consider and comment on:

    1. It would make sense to concentrate on one event at this stage rather than be over-ambitious and try to arrange a rolling programme.
    2. We should look at including prose as well as poetry, but would need to have regard to the length of pieces showcased. Flash fiction or short non-fiction pieces would work well.
    3. Timing. With Easter, holidays, etc, to be factored in, it looks as if April/May would be appropriate. We also need to think about which day might work best for members.
    4. Venue. The Working Group came up with two possibilities: Lionsheart Bookshop, town centre, Woking, or the Fiery Bird Centre, Goldsworth Road, Woking. Liz will liaise with Lionsheart Bookshop, having already established very positive links with this venue, and Heather will contact Elaine McGinty at the Fiery Bird, with a view to finding out costs and availability. (Woking Write Out Loud (open mic poetry group) meet monthly at the Fiery Bird where there is a large free car park.)

    Would members please consider the above proposals and email their comments by the end of February? It would be helpful if you could email your thoughts to all members of the Working Group, who will then summarise views in readiness for the March WWC meeting. Thank you!

    Collaborative Poetry Events at Lionsheart Bookshop

    Meanwhile, Liz and Keith have been blazing a poetry trail at the Bookshop on the last Saturday of the month. Jack at the Bookshop is happy for poets to come along and read in the first half of the evening. Liz has spoken about the warmth (in every sense!) of the venue and the availability of food and drinks.

    Merrist Wood Event

    Possibility of a WWC Table at Merrist Wood, 31st May, 1st June. The cost of having a table would be £100. Published authors could sell books. It would be useful to know what interest there might be in this venture. One possibility might be to join with the Bookshop or Write Out Loud.

    News

    Liz advised that the Book Group’s current book was Monsignor Quixote by Graham Greene.

    Readings

    Tricia’s poem, Decution, beautifully conveyed the frustration and information overload experienced when dealing with technology. Clever use was made of shadows, which in the opening line are thought to be hiding things, preventing the user seeing what’s really going on. By the last line, the shadow is creeping, conveying fear and loss of control. Tricia had made up the title word, a close relative of ‘unnoticed’.

    Keith had the group amused and delighted by the first part of his factual account, My First Visit to Ireland. The pleasure was intensified by Keith’s spirited rendition of the Irish accent. The second half of the account was read after the break and this worked well because Keith had deliberately paused on a note of suspense. Everyone enjoyed the piece with its sustained and warm humour.

    Peter reading was interesting because it was very much the early stage of a piece of work, quite probably a poem. The Ten Ages of Man was a gathering of ideas, Peter feeling that now we’re living longer, we need to think in terms of 10 ages rather than Shakespeare’s 7. Each ‘age’ gathered round it the things associated with knowing things, the view taken of life and other people’s attitudes towards you in a fresh, convincing way without trotting out the usual platitudes. There was some thought that as well as one complete poem, there could be interesting possibilities in developing some individual aspects of the journey through life.

    Heather read two poems, both of which departed from her normal style as they incorporated rhyme. The first, The Church Tea Room, endeavoured to capture the ‘almost holy’ atmosphere of a tea room attached to a church. The second, ABBA’s Avatars, related the somewhat bizarre experience of going to this event with a former work colleague in the early stages of dementia, and the contrast between how serious they used to be and how they were savouring the drops of magic still available in later life. Keith thought she might have over-rhymed in the second poem, but both poems were enjoyed.

    Alan’s story, Inside Job, was greatly enjoyed by everyone. There were some illuminating descriptions, such as ‘…a soulful redhead, her lustrous curls tumbling into a lacy cleavage.’   The piece had all the glorious Alan ‘trademarks’ of ‘a Dickensian way with words’ (thank you, Tricia!), wonderful names – ‘Oxenthorpe Truss University’ and an ending which didn’t so much surprise as make his listeners gasp – even while they were laughing. A triumph.

    Liz produced 2 poems, each taking a photograph as its inspiration. The first, Napalm Girl, portrayed a girl running from the grimness of war in 1972, her clothes burning on her back, running towards the camera. The second, Gaza Girl, related to the current war and showed another victim. Her pain would feature in papers across the world the following day. Liz had adopted a spare, powerful style, writing in the first person as the child in each case and voicing no judgement. It was agreed that Liz had developed her skills and applied just enough crafting to the writing to strengthen the message. There was some discussion around the validity of writing about things outside the writer’s experience and about the techniques employed.

    Next Meeting: Thursday, 21st March at 7.30pm

    Chair: Heather

    Minutes: Alan

    Wine and biscuits: Keith

    Milk: Tricia

    Homework: Equinox