Woking Writers Circle

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

Category: Members

  • What happened at our April meeting: news and readings

    MINUTES OF WOKING WRITERS’ CIRCLE MEETING AT ST MARY’S CHURCH HALL, HORSELL ON 20th APRIL 2023

    Present: Peter, Alan, Simona, Liz, Heather

    Apologies: Hilary, Sarah DD, Amanda, Tricia

    NEWS:

    Congratulations to Amanda, who has been selected for a post abroad. Amanda’s new role will begin in August 2023 and will be for two years. This is wonderful news for Amanda, but sad news for WWC.

    Heather suggested that ‘business cards’ with basic information about WWC would be a useful way of seizing the moment when talking with potential new members. It was agreed that this would be well worth a try and Simona kindly agreed to provide a draft for consideration at the next meeting.

    Simona mentioned that she had not posted the report of the Bookshop evening on the website and it was agreed that the timing had not been right in view of Carla’s sad and sudden death.

    Liz said that the Book Group’s next book would be ‘The Mountains Sing’ by Nguyen Phan Que Mai.  

    READINGS

    Peter read Chapter 8 from his book about Tommy Smith, the despatch rider. This chapter covered the events that happened during 29th and 30th May, 1940, and reflected the theme of the homework which was ‘Friendship’. This was a vivid and memorable piece of writing and the shock of Tommy’s friend Roger’s death was effectively conveyed against a backdrop of wartime ‘matter-of-factness’.

    There was some discussion about clarification in the first sentence and in the second paragraph which would be helpful to readers unfamiliar with the military scene. All agreed that Peter had made extremely effective use of short, sharp observations, such as, ‘…they say the one that kills you doesn’t hurt’.

    Heather contributed 4 short poems, each reflecting recent experiences. ‘The Tolpuddle Martyrs’ and ‘Lawrence’s Grave’ had been inspired by a recent short break in Dorset. The first poem linked the Martyrs with the view of the aconites around the meeting place; in each case, it was the gathering together that was significant. The second poem contrasted the setting of Lawrence’s grave with the sweeping dunes of the desert.

    Heather’s third poem, ‘The Minotaur in Woking’ imagined the Minotaur escaping from the current Sophie Ryder exhibition at The Lightbox to shop in M&S. The fourth one was even sillier (if possible) and related the author’s battle with newly acquired walking poles.

    Alan’s short story, Image Problems’, reflected the homework theme and was quite different from a lot of Alan’s other work. It made telling use of dialogue to convey a huge amount about each of the three characters involved and to move the story forward at just the right pace. The terrifying symptoms that John experienced involving distorted vision were vividly and disturbingly conveyed and it came as no surprise to hear that Alan had personal experience of this alarming condition.

    The story had a great deal of warmth, but never tipped into sentimentality and was remarkable for conveying some complex thoughts on human nature with great brevity and skill.

    Liz read her tribute on Carla, which had been warmly received at the last Write-Out-Loud Zoom meeting and will feature at the W-O-L meeting at The Lightbox on 27th April. The piece featured Liz’s report of the Zoom launch of Carla’s collection, ‘Workwear’, and included Liz’s personal thoughts following Carla’s death.

    All agreed that, due to the personal nature of the piece, it would be inappropriate to give detailed feedback, but it was agreed that Liz had produced a warm and well-written report, highlighting many memories shared by others.

    Discussion

    This was sparked off by Simona commenting that by contrast with Alan’s story, the chapter she had planned to read out contained very little dialogue.

    There was discussion about the use of dialogue to move a story forward and to bring characters to life. The importance of getting to know your characters was considered, so that each would speak with a different voice reflecting their personality and views; also the various ways in which they would speak, eg in very short sentences, slowly, rapidly or hesitantly.

    Heather thought that some readers would find text broken up with dialogue more inviting to read.  

    Alan referred to authors who had made particularly memorable use of dialogue, including Iris Murdoch with ‘The Accidental Man’.

    There was general agreement that the discussion had been useful, but if more time were to be used in this way, some reading time might have to be sacrificed when more members were present. It was agreed that this should be considered further at a future meeting.

    Simona took the decision to look at her work again with a view to making greater use of dialogue and to read it at the next meeting.

    Next Meeting: Thursday, 18th May at 7.30pm

    Chair: Tricia

    Minutes: Simona

    Wine: Peter

    Milk and biscuits: Heather

    Homework: New Horizons

  • What happened at our March meeting: news and readings

    MINUTES OF WOKING WRITERS’ CIRCLE MEETING, THURSDAY 19th MAY 2022 (held at the Crown, Horsell, by kind permission of the proprietors, entrance to the usual venue of the Church hall, St Mary The Virgin having been unavoidably prevented, due to circumstances beyond our control).

    Present:     Tricia (Chair) , Alan (Minutes), Hilary, Heather, Peter, Liz

    Apologies: Simona, Amanda, Sara DD

    NEWS:

    Carla Scarano D’Antonio  Following the death of our much loved, highly talented and acclaimed Carla, Peter confirmed that members’ tributes will be posted on the WWC website.

    The Poetry Evening held at the Lionsheart Bookshop the previous evening was a resounding success, with Peter unanimously acclaimed as the star performer. This reflected great credit on all participants, together with Liz for initiating the organisation and Amanda for her meticulous and thoroughly professional planning. Jack, the Bookshop Manager was very pleased with the outcome and had suggested monthly fixtures. Peter, however expressed a preference, at this meeting, for a frequency of once or twice a year, with which Liz agreed. Attendance was excellent, with at least six members of the audience keen to join WWC. A more detailed report of this event is to be published shortly.

    Liz also suggested that there could be prose evenings at the Bookshop. Peter felt that these would need a governing word limit for each reading, of possibly 400 – 500 words. He also suggested reading theatre reviews or articles, thereby broadening the prose offerings to include non-fiction. Play readings were another attractive possibility, but the requirement for more participants was a potential deterrent.

    Heather joined Verpoets, an organisation that produces a lot of online work, and has had two ten-line poems, entitled Grayson Perry and Wordwoods accepted and published in their magazine. Heather has also been commended in an anthology called Shepton Snowdrops, in their2023 Poetry Competition entitled Let Nature Thrive. Her poem was called The Sting.

    Liz gave an account of the book club’s most recent reading, ‘The Lido’, which in her words was not the most literary work they have read. However, due to the size of the group they benefit greatly from reading a wide range of novels, mostly good ones, which is of course especially helpful to those of us who intend writing their own. in their next meeting, on Monday April 3rd at 7.30 p.m., they will discuss ‘ Sweet sorrow’ ( one life-changing summer !) by David Nicholls and welcome any fellow members of WWC to join in reading the book and exchange impressions.

    READINGS: The homework theme was “Spring” or “Warm”.    

    Heather read her two published poems. Grayson Perry, the group agreed, said a great deal in the ten lines allowed, with the pithy, implicit social references occasioning great appreciative mirth. Woodwords, Heather’s second poem, was an entirely different piece, illustrating her great versatility. This was a much more reflective, serious appreciation of Heather’s highly original impressions gleaned from moonlit walks in the woodland bordering her home. Hilary admired the great emotional contrast between the two poems. Alan found the use of implicit imagery and references powerfully impressive, likening some allusions to John Tenniel’s illustrations. Heather described how the magic of these nocturnal woods greatly inspired her, with images such as words having sufficient presence and significance to seem capable of weighing branches down.

    Liz read Snowfall, a poem dedicated to Carla’s memory and written during a snowfall just before Carla’s passing. Peter felt that her very effective choice of words helped greatly to “knit the poem together”. Hilary admired the beginning and end, while suggesting that the central section about pyjamas was confusing and would benefit from “tightening”. Heather then suggested that, in certain cases, setting word limits for the beginning,  middle and end of a poem might be helpful. Liz appreciated this, while Peter explained that this was the method underlying sonnet writing. Heather emphasised that any such formula should be regarded as  flexible rather than being a rigid set of rules. The poem reminded Tricia of the unwelcome jolt from the initial rapturous appreciation of waking to a snowy morning, caused by remembering one’s imminent commute to work.

    Peter read the first draft of Tommy Smith’s Story, concerning Tommy’s misadventures on a motor bike. This continued from Peter’s previous innovative sharing of his preparatory notes, (as opposed to an actual draft), at a previous reading meeting. The section after the introduction was headed Spring 1939. First Wednesday of the month, Market Day in Ringwood. Listeners found that the horror of the accident was most effectively conveyed, being written from Betsy’s point of view. Peter then read a section set in 1976, written from Tommy’s viewpoint. Tommy is recalling the accident, back in 1939, survival of which influenced him to reject an American offer of a skating contract in the USA and instead, enlist to fight. He realises that he couldn’t escape family censure or the tortures of self-reproach, were he to choose safety and fame over patriotic duty. Listeners having praised the convincing realism of the crash scene, Peter ascribed this to writing from personal  experience, having survived just such a crash as described, while riding a motor bike.

    Hilary read another part of The Goldilocks Bench, having previously entranced listeners with an initial reading from the same work. Tonight’s section concerned the further experiences of a woman who wanders around an expensive part of town, in which she wishes but cannot afford to live.  Chastened by penury, she peers in through a cottage window on various occasions, developing a strange, chillingly disquieting relationship with a young man portrayed in a photograph, displayed on the sitting room wall. The sense of unease, already masterfully accomplished in Hilary’s uniquely effective style, is powerfully increased when the protagonist subsequently engages a young man in conversation. He resembles her, in subtly crafted and nuanced ways. Tonight’s section continued with the woman’s dispiriting return to her tower block flat in a sink estate, with atmospheric descriptions of sexually explicit graffiti. On a subsequent visit to the cottage, she is caught by a WPC, peering, once again, in at the window. Summoned by a complaint from the resident of ‘Jasmine Cottage’, the police woman tells her to ‘move along’. The protagonist’s anger and frustration were powerfully conveyed, building via an eviscerating exposé of societal attitudes, to a thrilling hook, as the outraged and humiliated woman contemplates accomplishing the demise of the mother of “Theo”.

    Alan, in a somewhat vague gesture towards the homework theme of ‘Spring’, read Mimicry in Birdsong – Avian Copying of Tunes and Sound Effects. This article had been published several years ago, online, by the now defunct Canadian ezine Suite 101. Alan explained that it had been inspired by a blackbird alighting on an electricity cable in his garden, when he lived at Mytchett, before he and Angela were married. The blackbird had then proceeded to “belt out the title bar from ‘Way Down Upon The Swanee River.” The article explored various experiments that had been conducted to establish birds’ mimicry and memorisation capacities. Particular interest and amusement centred around the ability of the Superb Lyrebird to imitate almost literally any sound, from a whirring camera shutter to rifle shots, barking dogs and crying infants.

    Next Meeting: Thursday 20th April, 7.30pm  at St. Mary The Virgin Church Hall, Horsell

    Chair: Hilary

    Minutes: Heather

    Homework Theme: Friendship

    Wine: Heather

    Biscuits & Milk: Simona

  • What happened at our February meeting: news and readings

    MINUTES OF WOKING WRITERS’ CIRCLE MEETING AT ST MARY’S CHURCH HALL, HORSELL ON 16TH FEBRUARY 2023

    Present: Amanda, Tricia, Carla, Liz, Alan, Peter, Simona, Hillary, Sarah

    Apologies: Heather

    NEWS:

    Amanda and Tricia’s latest theatre review was of Matthew Bourne’s Sleeping Beauty. They both describe the modernised performance as very gothic, beautiful, and in Tricia’s words, ‘fantabulous!’. Amanda noted that the theatre was full which added to the experience.

    The topic of subscriptions was brought up and the group re-confirmed that as per our AGM decision, subscriptions will remain at £35, and Hilary will circulate bank details.

    WWC’s first event at Lionsheart Bookshop:  The group decided that 15Th of March was the preferred date. Liz confirmed that Bookshop’s manager prefers a poetry evening when Hillary suggested that some of our membership is being left out. Hillary’s noted that we put these events together to attract membership and by making the event exclusively poetry may alienate prose interested potential members. Hillary’s comments were notes as valid and the group suggested that some of our future events can focus on prose should this event be successful. Amanda and Tricia offered to take over Liz’s efforts with thanks. Amanda also offered to put together a potential schedule and organise some other details for the event. The group then discussed potential ways to engage the audience in a manner that we usually do within the Circle.

    Peter then mentioned 2 other events (as per his email) and suggested linking the events to start having a presence at local events and that we should aim for 3 events this year. Tricia agreed that the more events we do the more we can learn.  

    READINGS:

    Carla ‘s poem ‘Polpette’, meaning ‘Meatballs’ was inspired by an Italian poem by Maria Monticcio, and although it bears the same name is not a translation, but Carla’s take on the topic of family, love and food, ‘Love’ having been the homework set at our previous meeting. Hillary suggested some re-arranging of the words and stated that from the first line of the poem you are instantly tuned in. Peter questioned why they have to be the ‘right meatballs’ and Hillary suggested that they have to be perfect in the context of family and love. The use of some superlatives was questioned but Carla stated that the tone is meant to be slightly exaggerated. Amanda suggests ‘altar’ was a good choice of word.

    Simona read a chapter from her novel which follows the events of a particular day from the perspective an unknown character. Simona stated that she enjoyed writing this chapter as it came to her naturally and is happy with its current form. After having read the chapter Alan suggested that Simona should consider the balance between exposition and dialogue as it will allow the pace to change throughout the chapter. Hillary agrees that the pace picks up at the beginning of the chapter and then does not alter much until the end of the chapter. Simona was grateful for all feedback.

    Sarah’s free-verse poem, ‘Poets in boxes and corners’, was inspired after attending Carla’s wonderful poetry book launch. The event was held on Zoom and the poem centred around capturing the look and feel of the experience as well as conveying how attending this way can help an introvert writer be part of something without stepping out of the comfort of home. Liz felt enthusiastic that attending such an event had inspired the poem. Tricia enjoyed the reflection that a virtual experience was not overcrowded by small talk, or a journey and Amanda felt the poem flowed well.

    Hillary read part of her most recent work which she titled ‘The Goldilocks bench’ located in a setting which the main character thinks of as idyllic. The story follows the main character through her enjoyment of a typical day in the setting and exposes some past interactions with other characters. Liz suggested that Hilary’s writing is powerful enough and that perhaps she does not need to spell some things out for the reader. Alan stated that it built the sense of foreboding quite strongly. Peter enjoyed how well Hillary’s work pulls the reader in with very little dialogue.

    Amanda’s piece, ‘Advice for applying for jobs when over 50’ is grounded in the reality that job seeking as a highly skilled/over-qualified individual is difficult. The satirical piece uses sarcasm and dry humour to successfully reel the reader in. Liz thought this was an excellent, informative and entertaining piece and Peter enjoyed the dry humour. Amanda stated that she enjoyed writing it.

    Alan read his short story, ‘Operation Cocoa Fix’, which was in theme with a previous homework topic (Chocolate). Once again, Alan’s piece took the group through an extraordinary journey and Hilary noted how skilful it is to skill to mix sci-fi with silly outcomes, noting that it was very enjoyable. Simona asked about what his usual process of writing these stories is to which Alan stated that he usually begins by writing his chosen theme on the paper and then lays out the plot, characters, etc. In this case he wanted the story to blow up in its own way by adding something about silly chemistry and embed that into a militarist theme set in the future with inspiration from Back to The Future. Lastly, Alan would decide on which type of story he would want to tell, be it shaggy dog type or dramatic.  

    Liz stated that she finds life writing absolutely vital as a coping mechanism and that she usually  reaches for a visual aids to enhance her process. For this particular piece with a fluid title, she chose to be inspired by 2 birthday cards and a Bird Book. Liz’s intention for the piece was to be able to imitate bird song and embed said noises in her reading of the piece, skill which she would like to become proficient at. The piece itself was a journey into discovery of the world of birds, at times including interesting trivia.

    Next meeting: 16th March

    Jobs for February:

    Chair – Tricia

    Minutes – Alan

    Wine – Carla

    Milk and biscuits – Liz

  • What happened at our January meeting: news and readings

    MINUTES OF WOKING WRITERS’ CIRCLE MEETING AT ST MARY’S CHURCH HALL, HORSELL ON 19TH JANUARY 2023

    Present: Peter, Liz, Carla, Tricia, Sarah, Simona

    Heather Apologies: Alan, Emily, Hilary, Amanda

    ATTRACTING NEW MEMBERS

    Peter agreed to send a note round about progressing links with the Library.

    Liz reported that no progress had been possible with the Woking News and Mail, but the bookshop had reacted very positively and were keen to further links with WWC. It was agreed that Liz would act as Project Manager to arrange for members to read their work at this venue at a date to be agreed.

    The subject of attracting new members would be further discussed at the February meeting.

    SUBSCRIPTIONS

    Also for discussion at the February meeting. The new rate – agreed at the 2022 AGM – is £35.

    NEWS

    Liz reported on the Book Club’s latest book, Brixton Beach, by Roma Tearne, which readers had found impressive, but depressing. The next book would be The Lido, by Libby Page.

    Carla confirmed that the Zoom launch of her latest poetry collection, Workwear, will take place on 10th February at 7.30pm. Carla will send out invitations to all members.

    Heather ‘s poem, Girl in a Cathedral, had been the overall winner in the 2022 Hysteria poetry competition. No-one was more surprised – and delighted – than Heather! Heather’s poem, Waterfall, had been shortlisted in Writing Magazine’s free verse competition, but her recent submissions to High Window had been rejected, proving you have to make the most of the good news!

    READINGS

    Carla read a beautifully nuanced poem, ‘Unhappy because I am not free, or I am not free because I am unhappy‘ (after a bout de soufflé by Jean-Luc Godard). The language of Carla’s poem was rich with not a word wasted. Some lines were particularly evocative and would stay with those listening. Examples were: ‘a shiver of sharing’, ‘stitching my footprints to the interior of my body’ and the last 2 lines of the poem which convey the determination of the human spirit in the face of challenges, ‘I hold this handrail with a firm grip, and carry on climbing’.

    Tricia’s poem, written earlier that evening, had been inspired by a painting of an open book with letters dancing out from its pages in a darkened room. The poem powerfully conveyed the freedom of the escaping letters to tell their own story, no longer confined by punctuation or by the author’s dictates. This was a remarkable first draft, capturing an intriguing concept.

    Heather read the Hysteria competition poem, Girl in a Cathedral, followed by a new poem, Waiting for Jeffrey, which contrasted the ‘lightweight’ waiting done as a teenager fancying herself in love with the rather lack-lustre Jeffrey with the darker, sadder waiting that occurs later in life.

    Peter, to universal approval, read more about Tommy’s journey as a dispatch rider on the Cherbourg to Tournai stretch. We had heard about Tommy’s experiences in previous readings and again everyone enjoyed the detail and the use of real place names; information was conveyed in a manner which never became dull or hard to grasp. There was humour too, particularly the ‘horizontal refreshment’ available to the men in certain outstandingly hospitable establishments.  The sudden announcement at the end of the piece that Germany had invaded Belgium and Holland was in sharp contrast to the feeling that this was almost a game in the earlier part of the piece. Some felt that there was scope for including more humour to heighten the contrast. Peter said that he liked to add in the softer, more emotional elements after putting the early draft together.

    Liz had been working hard to extract information about her husband Robin’s family history from him and had written about one of his grandfathers who worked in the shipyard where the Queen Mary was built. He was late coming home one night and his wife was worried. When he arrived, all he said was, ‘We’ve launched her.’ This turned out to be the Queen Mary and the launch apparently had to be done at night due to the growing Nazi threat. Liz wondered whether to add more detail, but the feeling was that this would change the balance.

    Sarah read two magical poems, The Long Winter and Spring. It was agreed that the repetition of ‘the long winter’ worked very effectively in the first poem and the last line, ‘I wear the long winter’ was stunning. In the Spring poem, the magic is sustained with some brilliant imagery, such as the shadow of the writer’s pen on the paper.

    Sarah then seamlessly moved on to another wonderful piece, Telepathic Cat, which was a prose account about a rather spooky cat which controls humans by telepathy. (Cat people don’t have any problem believing this kind of thing, mainly because it’s true.) All agreed that this was a beautifully written contribution and everyone could visualise the cat in question, demanding to have the tap turned on without making a sound.

    After the readings there was a great deal of eating and drinking, which was the perfect way to welcome in the New Year and celebrate another hugely enjoyable evening.   

    Next meeting 16th February 2023

    Jobs for February:

    Chair: Carla                   

    Minutes: Simona

    Milk and Biscuits: Sarah      

    Wine: Tricia                 

    Homework: Love

  • What happened at our December meeting: news and readings

    What happened at our December meeting: news and readings

    WOKING WRITERS CIRCLE MEETING ON THURSDAY DECEMBER 15 AT ST MARY’S CHURCH, HORSELL

    Emily, Simona, Hilary, Heather, Tricia, and Alan sent apologies.

    It was a frosty night when Peter, Liz, Amanda, Carla, and Sarah arrived at our Woking Writers Circle venue, greeted by the pretty sound of choir practice in the adjacent church. The warden, Mike, made a friendly appearance at the start of the meeting, and we welcomed him to the table to join in with the festive treats, wine and the news update.

    News

    Peter introduced the subject of attracting new members to the WWC. It is important to retain, attract and welcome new members. We agreed to keep this topic on the agenda each month as this will be an effective way of keeping focused as well as following up on ideas and actions each month.

    Liz agreed she will continue to progress an opportunity for some regular space with the Woking News and Mail.

    Peter has spoken to the Branch Manager of Woking library to see if it would be possible for the WWC to do something at the library and the Manager was enthusiastic to support this. Members writing would be read aloud and performed. We produce a wide range of writing including poetry, prose, plays, theatre reviews, and novels (extracts). This would be an opportunity to show case the diverse output of WWC members and attract interest. Peter suggested that we might consider a writing theme of Woking. We agreed that a lunchtime would be appropriate since it may attract workers on a lunch break. Holding the event during the school holidays would enable Amanda to join in. Liz suggested light refreshments might be available.

    Mike helpfully mentioned that the publication Horsell Matters might also be an appropriate publication if WWC would like to submit an article. This opportunity was welcomed, and we will think about something suitable.

    Liz updated members about another possibility when talking with people at The Lionheart Book Shop and Café in Woking as they are enthusiastic about poetry. Liz agreed to take the lead on this opportunity and chat to them again further. We agreed an early evening, 6pm event might work well, and all agreed ideally the event should be no longer than 90 minutes.

    Peter summed up that we can mull over these ideas, take any actions agreed and discuss further at the next meeting and move things forward.

    Readings

    Sarah explained how Peter’s reading at the last meeting ‘Punk Girl at the Co-op’ reminded her of an old journal entry she had written years ago on a visit to Canada called ‘Salt Spring Island Lady’ and read this short piece together with an observation of ‘Salt Spring Island Mist.’ Reflecting on this Sarah felt that it was helpful to write about small moments witnessed that have an impact. Peter agreed that these glimpses are useful to write about and store to be used in other works ‘File it away and when writing a story, pull things in.’  Liz felt inspired to write more when she goes on her travels and described these written glimpses as ‘literary photographs.’

    Peter explained that he was continuing to write a story about his father who was a professional ice skater and went on to serve in World War II. After experimenting with different options to convey his father’s interesting life story, Peter decided to tell the story by inventing a fictional character, Tommy Smith. Tommy will recall his vivid reflections in his old age and will time travel to different episodes, not necessarily in chronological order. After trying different approaches, Peter felt that writing in the style of a third person, past tense narrator might work best and proceeded to read the extract, seeking some feedback on how effective this was. Carla felt the writing was intimate and set the scene well. Liz was at ease with the writing and meditative tone, feeling that Peter had found something good to write about and that he was well versed in the theme. Liz concluded it had a good style and enough characterisation. Sarah liked the description of the evacuees and felt there was a film like quality to the writing. Carla thought the last two paragraphs were evocative and reflected the thoughts of the character. Peter felt he was finding the voice and was starting to feel happier with the approach.

    Carla brought copies of two Christmas Poems she admires and read them out beautifully. The first poem, Various Portents by prize winning poet Alice Oswald. (A link to the poem is at the end of the notes).

    Having various structures, repetition and themes Carla felt the repeating vision of the stars is an image of hope. Liz felt the poem was like a list and there was a lot to take in, but the poem was physical, musical and intense. Peter commented ‘you could read the poem a few times and get something different from the poem each time.’

    The second poem, December by Carole Ann Duffy, Poet Laureate 2009-2019. (A link to a musical version of the poem is at the end of the notes).

    Carla commented that the subject of stars is present in her mind in uncertain times. Amanda summed up ‘You don’t know what’s happening, but you know the stars are always there.’  Carla highlighted the line in the poem ‘These nights are gifts, our hands unwrapping the darkness to see what we have.’ Carla is very inspired by Duffy’s work. Liz felt the poem was poetic, physical and imaginative. Liz thanked Carla for introducing the poems and felt very inspired. Amanda highlighted two other works by Duffy, Warming Her Pearls and The World’s Wife. Everyone agreed the poems Carla brought to the evening were lovely choices and inspirational.

    Liz reminded us of her recent poem ‘Northeast’ which looked back on her life in the 1960’s. Liz recalled that she discussed this poem with a new acquaintance. The young man offered to review the poem. In his feedback he suggested a few things but one of note was to change ‘Maggie’s first boyfriend’ to ‘Maggie’s lad.’  Liz was delighted with this change and gained a greater understanding and appreciation of the art of removing or changing some things. Peter agreed this was a valuable learning although challenging to ‘kill your darlings.’ Peter mentioned that Tennyson had different versions of ‘The Lady of Shalott.’ Moving on from the useful discussion about writing techniques Liz read her Christmas 2022 newsletter. Some of the topics covered were her pride in Woking’s refugee efforts current and historic, updates on grandchildren, the Arts, Woking Writers Circle, her recently published works, the reading group, a little about health challenges and the late Queen. Some friendly banter occurred about the use of the term ‘Salad days.’  Sarah commented that all the different topics flowed well. Peter felt the letter was stimulating and interesting with a good ending. Amanda enquired how long Liz had been producing the letter and established this has been 40 years and Liz has copies of each year. Everyone agreed the letter had no hint of the dreaded ‘bragging’ type of Christmas newsletter and Amanda particularly liked the inclusion of literary interests.

    During the closing of the meeting, we pulled some of the crackers that Liz had kindly brought along and read out some of the jokes. The food was wonderful and plentiful. Leftovers were generously shared to take home.

    Merry Christmas to all as we look forward to more readings, inspiration, laughter and welcoming more members at future meetings in 2023

    Next meeting: 19th January 2023

    Jobs for January:

    Chair: Sarah

    Minutes: Heather

    Milk and biscuits or cake: Carla

    Wine: Simona

    Homework: Literary photograph

    If you are interested in writing and would like to attend a Woking Writers Circle Meeting to see what it is like, do come along. Meetings are held every third Thursday of the month. The next meeting is 19th January 2023 – 7:30 – St Mary’s, Horsell in the adjoining St Andrews Room GU21 4QQ. Do bring something you have written if you wish. We look forward to seeing you.

    Various Portents by Alice Oswald

    https://www.poetryfoundation.org/poems/56339/various-portents

    December by Carole Ann Duffy. A musical version of the poem by LiTTLe MACHiNe

    December by Carol Ann Duffy and LiTTLe MACHiNe – YouTube

    Christmas illustration by kind permission of Carla

    Notes by Sarah

  • What happened at our November meeting: AGM and readings

    MINUTES OF WOKING WRITERS’ CIRCLE MEETING AT ST MARY’S CHURCH HALL, HORSELL ON 17 NOVEMBER 2022

    Present: Simona, Tricia, Sarah, Amanda, Heather, Peter, Liz, Carla

    ANNUAL GENERAL MEETING

    Our November meeting started with our 30th Woking Writers Circle AGM. Copies of the Agenda and Constitution were distributed, and each item was discussed individually.

    1. The previous AGM minutes were presented; Tricia proposed these for approval, Heather seconded, and the group unanimously agreed.
    2. Meeting venue: No issues identified. The venue continues to be adequate.
    3. Chairmans report was circulated and read out loud by the Chairman. Peter highlighted some of the Circle’s significant events (ability to now meet in person, our dear Greg’s relocation), some things that make us successful (published work, review of local theatre) and some actions that we should consider for improving our membership and our constitution. Peter ended his report suggesting that the Circle should continue to be run as a loosely managed group and offering thanks to Hilary (our Treasurer) and Amanda (our Secretary).
    4. Membership discussion was deferred until after the Treasurer’s report.
    5. The treasurer’s report was presented highlighting that the current level of fees will not be sufficient to sustainably cover the Circle’s outgoings. The Treasurer proposed 3 options to remedy the declining cashflow: 1 Continue with the same membership value until practically unsustainable, 2 Increase the membership fees from £30 to £45 and 3 Decrease the number of meetings. Before any debate could be held the group unanimously agreed that option 3 should not be considered. The group then voiced that they would agree to an increase in fee, with the exception of Peter. Peter was then given the floor to present his argument: A higher fee may deter members from joining and the group’s active membership is quite low. Peter suggested we should create a campaign which would help us attract new members which at the current level of membership may be sufficient for us to operate. Tricia suggested that due to the overall financial situation, now may not be the time to attract new members but may be worth trying. Suggestions were offered by Carla & Liz (poster and leaflets distribution in key locations) as well as Amanda (online campaign). Simona proposed that the conversation be moved to a dedicated meeting where we can plan accordingly. The group agreed.
    6. Subs: Tricia proposed that subscriptions be increased to £35, Heather seconded, and everyone agreed unanimously for the increase. Liz proposed that should young talent wish to join we could waive their membership fee. Peter agreed and suggested flexibility should be considered on a case-by-case basis.
    7. Website Report: Simona stated that handover from Greg has not yet happened due to some technical difficulties, but a workaround has been found. Amanda noted that the website looks good, professional.
    8. Election of Committee: Hilary, although absent was proposed to continue as Circle’s Treasurer by Peter. Her confirmation will be noted in our next meeting. Peter suggested a rotation of the committee, but the group was reluctant. The group was happy to continue having Peter, Amanda and Hilary as Chairman, Treasurer and Secretary. Liz was once more confirmed as the Circle’s Steering Officer.
    9. AOB: Sarah suggested we should renew our mailing list and that every active member be made aware of it with Amanda confirming she will action the point as Secretary. The group suggested that we should ensure no breach in GDPR rules in regard to old member’s details. The group agreed on the mailing list being made up of active members and 2 years lapsed members. Sarah suggested we should review our constitution and add this point in.

    NEWS

    Liz announced that the Book Group’s previous meeting was centred around ‘The Promise’ by Damon Galgut. The group gave it a unanimous 8/10. Liz described the read as a ‘depressing family saga’ with little in terms of cultural nuance. The Group’s next meeting will be discussing ‘Brixton Beach’ by Roma Tearne.

    READINGS

    Peter’s poem was inspired byhis recent read of ‘The Lady of Shalott’. He noted that really old poetry, which he sometimes enjoys reading, is quite unsophisticated and sometimes bad. His poem ‘Punk Girl at the Co-op’ explores a mundane experience transformed into something exciting by the sight of the ‘Punk Girl’. The group agreed that the poem had a fair amount of entertainment value and even incited some laughter. Sarah praised the imagery as she could visualise the Girl as the poem was read, Liz enjoyed the poem so much that she did not want it to finish, and Amanda stated that the rhythm of the poem was great. Carla comments that it comes through as Peter likes the Punk Girl and Peter acknowledges her effort of dressing to impress.

    Tricia’s poem was in line with the theme set in our previous meeting which she aptly named ‘Bittersweet’. The poem, a powerful piece, was inspired by her own recent revelation of ongoing Child Labour in Cocoa Plantations in Ivory Coast. Although innocent at first, the poem takes a dark turn with thoughts of own demise from the protagonist and . Sarah thanked Tricia as he felt she was open to a topic of which she was not aware, and the group agreed.

    Liz’s poem, ‘Northeast’ was a nostalgic piece describing historical imagery of personal importance. The group requested a second reading as the journey was amply descriptive and the group wanted to feel immersed. The final image leaves the reader/listener remembering the snowy picture alongside Liz, with anticipation of an impending kettle which ‘would have whistled’. Carla suggested that the last two stanzas grip the reader really well but felt that the last 3 lines could be cut with no detriment to the poem. Heather, Sarah liked that the last line evokes sound, a change from the beautiful snowy image.

    Sarah’s piece, ‘Empower Challenge and Drive…’ was a monologue which started off implying a strained relationship with another person. As the monologue progressed it is revealed that the relationship is actually with a banking service. Although the piece turned somewhat comical, the frustration of the protagonist was deeply felt through her interaction with the young woman with ‘dead bored fisheyes’. Amanda stated that the piece captures how we all feel about the lack of humanity in having to navigate today’s changing technological environment. Liz pointed to some fantastic lines such as ‘the ‘No’ lands on me and slithers down my throat’ and considered them to be visceral. She loved the piece entirely.

    Heather’s poem, called ‘Brain fungus’ depicted the life of a fungus between moments when observed in her garden. Amanda liked the very last line, ‘a shared expression of warm blood’s unease’ and she feels very connected to the sentiment. Carla thought the poem was very physical, and liked the observation, and the unusual and personal perspective leaving the reader wondering on what she actually meant. Amanda said the words used evoke imagery very well. Heather expressed that she felt a sort of kinship with the badger and its unease at the sight of the fungus. Although Liz suggested that the poem made her feel unsettled Heather counteracted with the fact that poem in itself may not be the cause of uneasiness but Heather’s reaction to the fungus through the poem.

    Amanda’s piece was called ‘BSC week’ which although an acronym, its meaning will not be shared here. The piece gives insight into the last week before half term in the life of an Assistant Head Teacher. The frustration of this last week is cleverly crafted by a multitude of events which at times are somewhat humorous, especially in hindsight. Simona suggests that this could be a piece we could use at a possible collaboration event with the Write Out Loud group.

    Carla’s 2 poems were written as a workshop exercise drawing inspiration from two paintings and 2 pieces of music. Both poems, ‘The Rhythm of Watercolour’ and ‘Variation in spiral’, were well received by the group. Heather stated that she enjoyed the mix in the first poem and more specifically the ‘feeling well in the insubstantial’, the loss of substantial form through music, watercolour which she could feel very powerfully. In regard to her second poem Heather suggested that it is more open than what Carla usually writes but she enjoyed the imagery. Peter praised Carla for her use of the abstract as it encourages the mind to wonder, it is stimulating. Peter’s only suggestion would be to change the order of the colours to match something more familiar. Sarah suggested that the potential peacefulness of the painting comes through the second poem, but the last few lines carry a sense of unease. Liz stated that ekphrastic poems are fascinating in their ability to become more akin to paintings or pieces of music. Amanda liked the flow of colours in the second poem while Simona suggested that the first poem may not be making use of sound as much, but the second poem does it so much better. Carla’s final remark was to state that the abstract makes you freer to express or think whatever you like.

    Apologies received in advance from Heather

    Meeting: 15th December, informal

    Jobs for December:

    Chair: Free flowing.

    Minutes: Sarah

    Mince pies, panettone, and sausage rolls: Liz, Carla and Peter

    Wine: Tricia & Amanda

    Homework: Covent Garden

  • What happened at our October meeting: news and readings

    MINUTES OF WOKING WRITERS’ CIRCLE MEETING AT ST MARY’S CHURCH HALL, HORSELL ON 20 OCTOBER 2022

    Present: Peter, Alan, Hilary, Carla, Simona, Liz, Heather 

    Apologies: Tricia, Sarah, Amanda

    News:

    Carla very kindly presented everyone with signed copies of her anthology ‘Workwear’. This wonderful book has a stunning cover which is the work of Carla’s daughter, Irene. Thank you so much, Carla.

    The Write Out Loud Woking anthology is now on sale (available on Amazon) and includes poems by Carla, Liz and Greg.

    Carla will be co-compering the Woking Write Out Loud group with Rodney now that Greg has fulfilled his long-term ambition of moving to the north.

    Peter raised the question of a Christmas social and it was thought that a January social evening would probably work well. This would not, of course, rule out enjoyment of mince pies and other Christmas goodies at the December meeting.

    Liz spoke about two books, ‘By the Sea’ by Abdulrazak Gurnah and ‘The Promise’ by Damon Galgut. The latter was currently being read by the Book Group and Liz said she was enjoying it. 

    Readings

    Liz read a poem on the homework subject of ‘Leaving’, addressed to Greg. This referred to Greg’s talents as writer, poet, actor, journalist and covered many things associated with the north, including Newcastle Brown. All agreed that this was a very warm poem covering a lot of ground. There was discussion about the phrase ‘pink ladies’ which might not be recognised as a reference to ghosts, as in ‘the white lady’. Liz’s poem both celebrated Greg as a person and also recognised all that he had done for WWC.

    Carla presented two poems written for the Stanza group. The first was ‘Sunflower Power’ and this told listeners of the need to be kind to sunflowers as well as reminding us of their power to inspire artists and supply life-saving food for wildlife. There was a great deal to think about in this beautiful poem. Carla’s second poem, ‘Untitled’, was a powerful and quite disturbing poem. The first line described the writer as feeling her “soul is a hollow husk today” In the last verse there was a suggestion that things could be different on another day. This was another very thought-provoking poem.

    Hilary had previously read a piece about a girl from Afghanistan learning from her father about the significance of mulberry trees in their culture. This was another beautifully written piece, bringing to life the image of dark soft fruit hidden under dark leaves, underpinned by a compelling and sustained emotional power. Towards the end of the piece, there was a change of voices which was clear to the group and was effective. The possibility was raised of the wary girl from Afghanistan and a young, quite outgoing young man from a different culture getting together in the future.

    Heather read a poem, ‘Visiting a Friend’, written after seeing a friend after a gap of some six years. The poem sought to emphasise the frailty of her friend and the corresponding feelings of “mammalian vastness” this inspired in the writer. There were feelings of awkwardness about the relief she felt when it was time to leave and reference to “the messiness of love”. Heather then punished the group with an extremely silly rhyme, ‘Holidays – or Comments on a Marriage’. Fortunately, it was time for the break by then!

    Simona’s piece reflected the homework topic and was a beautifully written letter to a friend who had taken his life a year ago. Everyone agreed that this was an amazing piece of writing, which showed great sensitivity and also conveyed both the compulsion to write the letter and the extreme difficulty in doing so. Phrases such as “a sense of things that need to be said”, “It feels I’ve written many letters”, and “I can whisper – you can pretend you haven’t heard” conveyed the writer’s deeply felt emotions. There was discussion about the last part of the piece, which possibly needed a bit more explanation. All agreed that the work was beautifully crafted.

    Peter read his poem, ‘Leaving’, which was set in wartime with the soldiers waiting for the boats to come to take them to safety. All agreed the recurring reference to “Capt. Andrews in the roof” worked well, with the men pinning their hopes on him shooting Germans and buying them time. The poem contained just enough military detail to give it credibility, while maintaining the desperate humour and danger of the situation. Everyone loved the poem as it stood without any changes to structure, metre or rhyme.

    Alan’s short story, ‘Assisted Passage’, was set in a police station and consisted entirely of dialogue. This was very much a performance piece, with Alan investing each part with Oscar-winning characterisation. The plot concerned confessions to murder and it was left to the listener to fill in the blanks. Everyone enjoyed the story – particularly Alan’s spirited delivery. 

    Next meeting: Thursday, 17 November at 7.30pm

    7.30pm: AGM. 8pm: Readings

    Chair: Tricia/Hilary

    Minutes: Simona

    Wine: Carla

    Milk and biscuits: Heather

    Homework: Chocolate

  • What happened at our September meeting: news and readings

    What happened at our September meeting: news and readings

    WOKING WRITERS CIRCLE MEETING ON THURSDAY SEPTEMBER 15 AT ST MARY’S CHURCH, HORSELL

    Present: Alan, Liz, Carla, Tricia, Peter, Sarah, Greg, Heather, Simona

    Apologies: Amanda

    NEWS

    Greg was celebrating his 20th anniversary as a member of Woking Writers Circle, at his last meeting before he moves to Northumberland. It was also his 70th birthday the following day. When Greg joined in September 2002 he was immediately voted in as treasurer, a position he only relinquished a few years ago. He remains in charge of our website, for now! We marked all this with a birthday cake baked by Carla, see picture, and some generous words by members.

    Write Out Loud Woking, a monthly poetry open mic-night that meets at the Lightbox and on Zoom will soon be publishing an anthology, ‘Finding our Voices’, marking its first six years. Greg is co-compere of Write Out Loud Woking with Rodney Wood. The anthology will include poems by Carla and Liz.

    Liz announced the Book Club’s next meeting to be Monday (19 September). The group will be discussing Olive Kitteridge by Elisabeth Strout, which Liz described as honest, gritty and quite disturbing.

    Heather said her poem had been longlisted in the prestigious Wildfire Words ‘Every Breath’ competition, and will feature in an anthology to be published in October.

    READINGS

    Carla read ‘Thinking About the Queen’, a short piece for which she was highly praised by the group. Although inspired by recent loss, the tribute focuses on Her Majesty’s life of service and importance to the country as a whole which Carla beautifully reminds us of. Liz praised the sincere tribute as expansive but also technical. Tricia commented that some of Her Majesty’s traits were well presented in the tribute. Peter suggested the work deserves an A+, with everyone in agreement.

    Heather read two poems, each powerfully evocative of contrasting emotions. The first poem ‘Alone in a Travelodge’ was inspired by Heather’s recent trip. Alan commented that Heather captured the ‘beautiful brittleness’ of a hotel room. Greg praised Heather for a fine poem that resonated with everyone. Sarah liked that the poem alluded to the room’s next visitor who would share in the same experience. The second poem, ‘Jamais Vu’, in a sense, the opposite of ‘Déjà Vu, was inspired by the dissociative experience of having done something which later on feels unfamiliar. Greg praised the poem for its structure and changing direction halfway through. Tricia appreciated how it resonates with her own experience of poems she wrote in the past feeling as if written by someone else now. Alan praised the poem for strong suggestion of time passing.

    Sarah’s free-flowing poem was both a tribute to her mother and her appreciation of the royal family, inspired by recent events. Liz said that the selection of details was very touching but also expressed a preference for more joy to be worked into the poem. Greg stated that the line ‘We’ll meet again’ was as powerful in the poem as it was in Her Majesty’s address. The group agreed that the poem was not too negative and did not require much reworking. Alan praised the poem for easily conveying a life of service.

    Greg, inspired by his upcoming move, successfully managed to convey his appreciation for his new home through his poem ‘Northumberlandia’. Tricia appreciated the metaphors that the description of natural shapes can convey, with Heather in agreement that the light touch left more to the reader’s imagination. Liz was impressed by Greg’s openness in his appreciation for the landscape. Sarah suggested that formatting the poem in the shape of the Lady of the North may help the reader understand the appreciation on a deeper level. The group agreed.  

    Liz wanted to write about The Queen but felt inadequate. Instead, her piece focused on Greg and their friendship through Woking Writers Circle. The piece, titled ‘O, Greg’ collates memories of Greg’s time at the circle through various minutes Liz found in her archive. Liz orchestrated the poem and timing of the birthday cake’s arrival with some humour. Greg was touched by and appreciative of the gesture.

    Alan’s story was in line with the previously set homework of ‘Alarm(s)’. The story, in Alan’s usual style, is fast paced and humorous and revolves around an attempt by the main character to be the hero. When asked about his signature twist, Alan suggested that the it resided in the main character being told off for not following the correct procedure in the presence of the person he was trying to impress in the first place.

    Peter began by expressing gratitude for Greg’s contributions to Woking Writers Circle, including wielding the editor’s pen thoughtfully and effectively. Peter’s letter to the publisher of Old Bike Mart was published in the August edition. Greg praised the letter. Although it was highly technical, it broadened the group’s mind as we do not often get exposed to such a style of writing. The group agreed that the piece was refreshing to read and listen to.

    Next meeting: Thursday 20 October

    Jobs:

    Chair: Tricia

    Minutes: Heather

    Tea and biscuits: Alan

    Wine: Sarah

    Homework: ‘Leaving’

  • What happened at our July meeting – news and readings

    MINUTES OF WOKING WRITERS CIRCLE MEETING 21 JULY 2022

    Attending: Amanda, Hilary, Liz, Carla, Greg, Alan, Simona, Tricia

    Apologies: Heather, Sarah DD, Peter, Emily

    News:

    Our August meeting, to be held on Thursday 18 August, as usual at the church, will be a summer social. A list of food to be brought and those bringing it has been circulated. Literary contributions also welcome, but of a light and summery nature.

    Alan reported that the 81-word anthology, which has 1,000 stories by 1,000 authors, including one of his, has now achieved world record-breaking status.

    Liz said the Book Group would be discussing The Garden of Evening Mists by Tan Twan Eng on 8 August.  

    Carla said that her new poetry collection Workwear will be published by The High Window Press later this year.

    Greg reminded us that he was taking part in a book-signing event with other Woking authors at the Lionsheart bookshop in Woking on Saturday afternoon.

    Readings:

    Amanda read her poem ‘Views from the Panorama hotel’, written after her recent holiday on a Greek island. A poem packed with observation and “off the cuff philosophy”. Greg suggested that the fourth line – “From our room: a car park, the bins, a dusty track and an adjacent hotel” – should be the first. Satisfyingly feelgood.

    Greg read his poem ‘Dust My Broom’, about his holiday job as a roadsweeper in 1972. Our youngest member Simona asked quite reasonably who ‘Tricky Dicky’ was.

    Alan read a gripping tale titled ‘A Hair’s Breadth’, with a nod to the homework subject ‘Fractured’, which involved a vaccine formula, a plan to blow up a mountain range, and a defective cable car system. There was both humour and Hitchcock and James Bond-style thrills. All in around 600 words!  

    Tricia read a short but powerful eco-poem poem called ‘Fractured’, about our broken world, and its ability to heal itself.

    Liz’s latest foray into life writing began with Cicely Mary Barker’s Flower Fairy books and their botanically accurate drawings. These triggered memories of searching for wildflowers on her family’s farm, the ‘Biblical’ tasks of ploughing and sowing, as well as ditching and wells. She remembered mourning the shrinking of ponds in the summer, and wrote of the “emotional deprivation of water”.  

    Hilary’s ‘Alternative Happiness’ was an exhilarating account of attending a pagan wedding with her husband. Purple and/or pink hair was the norm, and the bridegroom’s dreadlocks reached down below his waist. The bride and groom arrived in a horse and cart, and were tethered together with cord as they made their promises to each other. There was mead, and Beowulf performed by puppets. We all agreed that this would make a worthy separate feature on the website. 

    Carla read two poems. ‘No Good No Bad’ had come out of a workshop run by Helen Ivory, editor of Ink Sweat and Tears online magazine. It was to be published by Pulsar magazine. The second, ‘Luna’, was packed with powerful religious imagery involving the moon, the Lamb of God, and Mary depicted as a lioness. During our discussion Carla said felt that her poems that involved more obscure language were easier to place in magazines, than others with more simple themes.

    Next meeting: Summer social on Thursday 18 August (see above).

    September meeting: Thursday 15 September

    Jobs for September:

    Minutes: Simona

    Chair: Carla

    Milk and biscuits: Liz

    Wine: Tricia

    Homework: Alarms(s)

  • What happened at our June meeting – news and readings

    Meeting of Woking Writers Circle on 16 June 2022

    Present: Simona, Greg, Hilary, Liz, Alan, Amanda, Tricia, Carla

    Apologies: Heather, Sarah DD, Peter.

    News

    Greg is taking part in a book signing event at the Lionheart bookshop in Woking on July 23, with other Woking writers. The event is due to take place from 4-6pm.

    Carla and Greg have been involved with The Vision Project, involving music, dance, art and poetry. See Carla’s article

    Carla was due to perform her poetry live and to be interviewed at Teddington’s Poetry Performance on Zoom. She has also been displaying her art and crafts over two weekends at Chobham community centre as part of the Surrey Artists Open Studios scheme. See Greg’s article

    Liz reported that the book group has just read My Antonia by Willa Cather, which everyone enjoyed, and it was given 8.25 out of 10. Thanks to Peter who recommended it. Our next book will be The Garden of Evening Mists by Tan Twan Eng.

    Readings

    Everyone really enjoyed Greg’s poem ‘This Garden’, where he reflects about what he is leaving behind, when he moves up north. The enjambment technique was used to great effect, there was a sense of meandering through the garden, using vivid imagery, the phrase “evening jungle” was liked by Liz, the touches of humour about the shed resonated with all.

    Hilary read a dramatic episode from her novel about a young girl called Linnet. The tension was maintained and increased throughout, Liz liked the use of dialogue and questions were used to great effect. The characters’ reactions within the hospital setting were realistic and effective. Imagery conjured by the black smoke, sweet but not sweet, with the geese establishing a melancholy air at the start.

    Alan – ‘Fair waved the eight-byte string’. A very funny and entertaining piece in less than 500 words, Alan is becoming a past master at these short tales with a twist. It was very easy to connect the images and makes good use of sense and colour. Twas so funny at the end.

    Carla – ‘The delay of summer’. Dealing with the difficult subject of the conflict in Ukraine, through visual imagery and seasonal development, there were some beautiful contrasts with the changes to the seasons mirroring the people. “Fractured walls” was particularly effective. There was much discussion about the heron and it being a sacrilege. Carla unusually set the text to the right, which added to the sense of discomfort, as well as that of nature continuing its journey despite the horror of the war.

    Liz – ‘Postcards’. This was a very genuinely innocent, and well-written piece. Liz explained that she had written to Enid Blyton from school. She was allowed to write two letters after church, so after completing one to her mother, she penned this missive asking if the author could see her way to starting a cats club with a magazine. This opened a window onto a childhood spent on a farm and navigating through all that that entailed, and then being at boarding school, too. It was a fabulous piece and sprinkled with humour and anecdotes from Liz’s rural upbringing. Alan felt that there were some sinister undertones regarding the polarised attitudes.

    Simona treated us to an extract from the science-fiction novel she is working on. It was very well written and introduced us to many aspects of this alternative world, where people seek to drive away “the Gloom”. The counting of souls and Tally Day all sounded intriguing. There could be more showing than telling, but everyone thought it was a very powerful piece. More please.

    Tricia – ‘Sunny days’. A hastily compiled poem on this month’s topic, all the lines of each verse started with the same letter. Everyone said it conjured up images of Tricia’s recent sunny holiday in Turkey.

    Next Meeting: 21 July 2022

    Can everyone give some thought to the August meeting being a social at the church.

    Homework: ‘Fractured’

    Jobs:

    Chair – Tricia

    Milk & Biscuits – Hilary

    Wine – Amanda

    Minutes – Greg