Handing in semester 1 module for the MA in Creative Writing
Taking 2nd prize in the HE Bates short story competition
You can read her story 'Ancient Wing' here and the winning story by Anne Corlet - a wonderful piece which resonates with the truth of what makes a long-term relationship work (even in space!). Della Galton was the Head Judge for the competition and you can read her write-up of the winning stories here. Della also has an interesting post from HE Bates competition chair, Morgen Bailey, with some sensible advice on entering writing competitions, click here to read.
If you want to know the inspiration behind the story, then read on:
Ancient Wing is a modern re-telling of an Anglo Saxon myth, the story of the swan maiden, Olrun, and Aegl the archer. The swan maidens appear in other European legends, including the Norse Valkyries, so the story seems to resonate across many cultures. As a child one of my most beloved books was a beautifully illustrated fairytale telling once again the legend of the swan maidens.
For some time I had the title 'Ancient Wing' whirling round my head, but without a story to hang it on. On a seafront run I felt the urge to hold out my arms, as if I were launching myself over the sea. This prompted a thought about the Worthing Birdman competition, which runs every August off the end of the pier and suddenly I had a story about Irena leaping off the pier to re-join her swan sisters.In chatting with my writing buddy, Wendy Clarke, it turned out her daughter had actually taken part in the annual Birdman competition and jumped off the pier dressed as a phoenix. I can't remember if she'd told me this before I wrote Ancient Wing or not, whatever the timeline it's evidence of synchronicity in action. The photographs on this post are provided by kind permission of Wendy. Above right is her daughter, the Phoenix, about to fly off the pier. The other two photos are the Phoenix before (right) and then after the event (below left) - doesn't she look happy? Makes you wonder if we should all have a go ...
A wonderful story and many congratulations. However, NO, I don't feel as though I would like to leap off a pier, even though Wendy's daughter looks wonderful!
ReplyDeleteAre you sure about the pier? No, I have to agree! Thank you for the lovely comment.
DeleteThis comment has been removed by the author.
ReplyDeleteSorry, TRACY - I wrote Wendy in the last comment because I'd just been reading about Wendy's daughter!! Meant to say, loved your story and ssssh, I'd have made yours the winner - and I'm not just saying that! Well done.
ReplyDeleteNo worries, Helen - one day I hope the womag editors mistake me for Wendy (only joking). And thank you for the kind words on the story. :)
DeleteJust read your story, Tracy. Fabulous as usual. You've got me wondering wondering if my daughter might in fact be a swan (her hair's the right colour!)
ReplyDeleteHmm, you both could be swan maidens, Wendy ...
DeleteI love eccentric ideas such as the Birdman competition. Round my way they do cheese rolling, which is something I'm nearly tempted to try.
ReplyDeleteI like the idea of cheese rolling, but it gets quite frantic doesn't it? Let us know if you have a go, Patsy.
DeleteCongratulations, Tracy! I loved your story and hearing the inspiration behind it has just added to its appeal.
ReplyDeleteThank you, Jan, what a lovely thing to say.
DeleteWonderful story. I may as well give up now!
ReplyDeleteNow, now, Julia - never ever give up! It took me far too many competitions to mention before I even got longlisted. Just keep writing!
DeleteWell done Tracy! Looking forward to when you gather all your stories into an e-book!
ReplyDeleteThanks, Sally :)
DeleteBeautiful story Tracy, I loved the title. Well done.
ReplyDeleteHow lovely of you to say, Tracey. Thank you!
DeleteI've never heard of the birdman competition - and Wendy's daughter looks fab! Very well done on your success, Tracy - I'll pop over to read your story later.
ReplyDeleteHope you enjoy it, Rosemary :)
Delete