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swwj society of women writers and journalists
Issue 93
SPRING 2019
• • • •
Report on Spring Tea 125th Anniversary Lunch Marketing Advice News from Overseas Members www.swwj.co.uk
Who’s who Printed by TandC Printers, Bromley, Kent BR1 3PU Issue 93
Editor: Carol Cannavan 10 Dury Falls Close, Hornchurch Essex RM11 3AX Tel: 01708 459376 Mob: 07947 133509 carol@aspire-editorial.co.uk Chairman: Barbara Field-Holmes BIGG-in Words Ltd Room 2, Aileen McHugo Building Westmore Green, Tatsfield Westerham, Kent TN16 2AG Tel: 01959 575031 (Wk) Tel: 01959 575936 (Home) Mob: 07814 738894 swwj@bigginwords.co.uk Vice Chairman: Rebecca Harding Mob: 07966 459080 rebecca@saltwhistle.com Hon Treasurer: Benita Cullingford Tel: 01727 857388 b.cullingford@btinternet.com Manager, Writer’s Debut benitaswwj@btinternet.com Hon Secretary/Events: Janice Grande Tel: 01268 451547 Mob: 07951 671498 grandewords@yahoo.com Speakers: Pamela Payne Tel: 01730 892413 pamela@thebeach.com
Spring 2019
Marketing Coordinator: Michelle Harriman Mob: 07894 703717 Michelle@dotiprojects.co.uk Competitions/Social Media/Manuscript Appraisal: Vivien Brown Tel: 01895 254453 vivienhampshire@btinternet.com Archivist: Sylvia Kent Tel: 01277 651062 skent32@tiscali.co.uk Book Reviews/ Chawton House Liaison: Pamela Birley Tel: 020 7351 6377 bra33@btinternet.com Website: Gywneth Box Mob: 07986 613437 hello@gwynethbox.com Minutes Secretary: Vacancy Council Support: Katherine Bolton Mob: 07834 954993 katherineindevon@gmail.com
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Patrons: Lady Howard, Sir Tim Rice, The Earl of Stockton, Simon Brett OBE
Hon Life President: The Rt Hon Ann Widdecombe DSG
President: The Rt Hon Baroness Benjamin of Beckenham OBE DL
Vice Presidents: Doris Corti,Valerie Dunmore, Joyce Elsden, Jocelyn Glegg, Sylvia Kent, Jennie Lisney, Jean Morris, Mary Rensten, Jean Marian Stevens
Welfare/Benevolent Fund If any member requires help, please contact Jennie Lisney on 01444 412087 or write to: 4 Larch Way, Haywards Heath, West Sussex RH16 3TY. Email: jennielisney@gmail.com Donations to benefit our members in times of illness or hardship should be made out to SWWJ Benevolent Fund.
Consultants: Martin Cort (Drama) Tel: 020 7582 5839 mcort1@talktalk.net
Patrick Forsyth (Marketing) Membership Secretary: patrick@touchstone28.com Valerie Dunmore Vivien Brown (Proofreader) Tel: 01737 557936 swwjval@aol.com Newsletter/Overseas: Doreen Friend Tel: 020 8505 2476 doreen.friend@swwj.co.uk
The Woman Writer is published by The Society of Women Writers & Journalists
SWWJ website: www.swwj.co.uk
SWWJ members have the right to express their opinions in The Woman Writer. These opinions are not necessarily those of the Council or Editor. Neither the Editor nor the Society accepts responsibility for errors in articles. The Editor reserves the right to amend articles submitted.
Spring 2019 The Woman Writer
From the Editor
Contents 4
From the Chair By Barbara Field-Holmes.
5-9
Letters/Society news The latest news and views.
10
Obituary The sad passing of Wendy Hughes.
11
Members’ news A round-up of news and successes.
12
From the archive Members return to Stationers’ Hall.
13
Tech talk Picture perfect.
14
Poetry Writing as Catharsis.
15
Report on event Talk by a Sunday Times Journalist.
16 - 17 Overseas members The latest news. 17
Visit to Chawton House A tour of the House.
18 - 19 Celebrating 125 years Women writers then and now.
Hi everyone! It was great to meet some of you at our Spring Prize Giving and Tea (see page 20). I loved hearing the winning entries being read out – so original! It’s easy to see why they were chosen. Our next special event is the 125th Anniversary Lunch on 2nd May at the Stationers’ Hall in London. This really is an event that you don’t want to miss! Our wonderful President, The Rt Hon Baroness Benjamin of Beckenham OBE DL will be joining us. Floella is always an inspiration. Kate Mosse OBE is our guest speaker (see page 8). Kate has sold more than 7m books; I’m sure you are all eager to find out her secret for success! You’ll find the booking form on page 35 (menu on page 9), but time is short. You must apply for a ticket by18th April.
carol@aspire-editorial.co.uk
20 - 31 Spring Prize Giving and Tea Winning/runner-up entries. 32 - 33 Writing groups In the company of writers.
41 & 43 Markets & Competitions 42 - 43 Book reviews
33 - 34 SWWJ Competition John Walter Salver Competition.
44 - 45 Point of view Bridge over troubled waters.
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46
Subscription renewal A gentle reminder.
47
Dates for your diary 2019
125th Anniversary Lunch Booking form.
36 - 37 Marketing On time, every time. 38
When I was not upon this page Taps, with Doreen Friend.
39
Around the regions News from Moonraker Country.
40
London Book Fair Report by Pamela Payne.
The Woman Writer Spring 2019
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Front cover picture
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swwj society of women writers and journalists
Issue 93
SPRING 2019
Photo taken by Carol Cannavan at RHS Hyde Hall. Inset: Left to right: Marilyn Pemberton, Beryl Fleming, Rebecca Ritchie (judge) and Roberta Grieve.
• Report on Spring Tea • 125th Anniversary Lunch • Marketing Advice • News from Overseas Members www.swwj.co.uk
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From the Chair Chair types... by Barbara Field-Holmes, Chairman At the time of writing this Chair types, we seem to be no nearer to a Brexit solution than we were when I wrote my copy for the New Year issue. Hopefully, we will all soon know what is happening. In the meantime, Council is busy working on the 125th Anniversary Lunch and other events for later in the year. We do hope you will join us for the Anniversary celebrations on the 2nd May, at Stationers’ Hall, London. Reaching our 125th birthday is something that we should all be very proud of and look forward to celebrating. We are delighted that our guest speaker is the successful author, Kate Mosse OBE, and you can read more about her later in this issue (page 8). We are also including an application form for you to use to book your place if you haven’t already done so. Tickets will be issued for this event, so please ensure you respond in good time – an application form can be found on page 35. We have worked hard at keeping the ticket price down to under £50 to enable more of you to join us, particularly those who will have further to travel. Please support your Society. I hope you have noticed our special 125th Anniversary logo, which our Editor, Carol Cannavan, has used on the front page. We will be using this logo on a number of items connected to the Anniversary, up until the end of the year, and I would like to thank our Marketing Coordinator, Michelle Harriman, for designing this. Michelle is also working on some wonderful new designs for taking the Society forward after our Anniversary year, and we hope to preview some of these at the Anniversary Lunch. These will be displayed under the ‘Future’ banner of our Past, Present and Future displays. 4
When reading through the draft of this issue, I was delighted to read about our Associate Member, Martin Cort, who has received an award from the Writers’ Guild of Great Britain for his work in inspiring and encouraging dramatists of the SWWJ. Fellow member and one of our Vice Presidents, Mary Rensten, also a member of the WGGB, nominated Martin for his dedication to the Society’s members. I would like to congratulate Martin and thank Mary for nominating him. It is a wonderful way to promote the work of our members. You can read our report on page 6. The Spring Tea & Prize Giving was a huge success, and congratulations to all our winners. You can read about the winning entries later in this bumper issue, starting on page 20. And finally… It’s that time of year again for subscription renewals, which are due by 1st May 2019. A list of benefits can be found on page 7, and the list is growing. Please help our Membership Secretary by getting your form and subscription in early. A renewal form can be found on page 46.
Minutes Secretary required We are looking for someone to take minutes at our SWWJ Council meetings, which take place five times a year at The National Liberal Club, London. Your travel expenses will be covered and you will receive an honorarium of £100. The meetings start around 11.30am and usually finish by 4pm. If you would like more information, please contact Barbara Field-Holmes at: swwj@bigginwords.co.uk Spring 2019 The Woman Writer
Society news
Letters Write to us Come on members, let’s hear from you. This is your opportunity to have your say. Send your views to the Editor (see page 2 for contact details).
No need to read Call me old fashioned, I think of reading and writing as traditional items that go together like fish and chips. But, since becoming a volunteer reading mentor in a primary school I begin to wonder if learning to read and write is really necessary. Tim, an eight-year-old boy (not his real name), enjoyed the story in a book but found reading it out aloud difficult and almost impossible. Tim didn’t really want to read. He surprised me with his dream for the future, he wants to be a ‘u–tuber’. A u–tuber sits in front of a ‘cam’ in a studio talking to his audience with no need for any written story. Peter, also eight, read quite well but stumbled over the word ‘hitch’ a new word to him. I explained that hitch, was a way of linking his toy trucks and cars together, then felt sorry for him when he said that he hadn’t got any toy cars. “Poor boy,” I thought, “fancy not having any cars”. Peter said he didn’t need cars, he can see as many as he wants when ‘playing’ on his iPad. I was shocked. Will iPads and YouTube cams replace the keyboard and pen? And is this sort of technology responsible for the huge amount of illiteracy seen today? Reading mentors are used in schools to help children improve their literary skills. How will children learn to read and write in the future, will the pleasure of reading a book become something from a bygone age? What will become of the Society of Women Writers and Journalists without words – are our days numbered? Doreen Friend The Woman Writer Spring 2019
SWWJ Southern Spring Meeting Wednesday 17th April 2019 Parish Room, St Richard’s Church, Cawley Road, Chichester 10.30am for 11am-4pm. PROGRAMME Tea and coffee will be served at 10.30am, and the meeting will start at 11am. We will be discussing the future of regional meetings. Suggestions for venue, format, speakers, etc, welcome. If time, discussion of members’ work in progress, and exchange of ideas about getting published and promoting our work. We will break for lunch at 12.30pm. There are several eateries nearby or you can bring a packed lunch. In the afternoon SWWJ member Margaret Mounsdon will talk about pocket novels – what they are, what the publishers are looking for, how to get started. Margaret has had considerable success with this genre with 34 pocket novels published by My Weekly and People’s Friend. Her next, The Jade Turtle, will be out on 30th May. The meeting will close at 4pm. Tea, coffee, biscuits will be available throughout the day. There is limited parking at the church on a first come, first served basis. Public car parks nearby. The venue is a short walk from the bus and train stations. The meeting room is on the ground floor. For those who haven’t been before, the room is to the left of the main church entrance. Cost is £10 (£12 for non members). Cheques made payable to Roberta Grieve, send to: 49 The Millers, Yapton, Arundel BN18 0LE. Please let Roberta (Robbie) Grieve know ASAP if you are able to come. Email: robgrieve@msn.com Tel: 01243 554647– 5
Society news Olwen Wymark Theatre Encouragement Award Martin Cort received an award from the Writers’ Guild of Great Britain (WGGB) for his work in inspiring and encouraging dramatists of the SWWJ. He received the award on 8th February at the Royal Court Theatre, London. WGGB member Mary Rensten nominated Martin for his dedication to the Society’s members. Mary said: “Single-handedly, and for no payment, Martin runs twice-yearly, all-day workshops in London, at which the writers’ work-in-progress is read and acted out,
under Martin’s direction, by professional actors, and then appraised by everyone present. In October 2017 he mounted a production of short plays and monologues, at the Concert Artistes’ Association, to give his workshop dramatists an opportunity to have their work performed in front of a discerning audience among whom were directors, publishers of plays and agents.” Martin was delighted to receive the award. He said: “I have been surprised at the responses from interested people from all over the world including: USA, Australia, New Zealand, Bahamas, Spain and Gibraltar. It was also heartening that members of the Actors & Writers London organisation joined in the appreciation. Their actors have been particularly helpful over the years at our SWWJ Workshops and of course I have directed many of their plays. As I have held several official posts on their committee including that of Chairman, they made me an Honorary Member some years ago. “It is for me especially gratifying to receive this award as it involves my work over the past ten years with the SWWJ. I have recently said that when I can find a female professional director prepared to give her time to the Society, I would be happy to step down and work in the background. I want to help bring the work of our dramatists to the awareness of publishers, writers’ agents, theatre producers and directors. I have often spoken of the unfairness of when they work frequently in isolation in the provinces, and are not in a position to attract the attention of the members of the professional entertainment media. We need to show the excellent work and imagination of the SWWJ writers who attend our workshops.”
Congratulations Martin from everyone at the SWWJ! 6
Spring 2019 The Woman Writer
Society news
Brenda Frith Brenda Frith sadly passed away on 27th December last. Brenda, a former primary school teacher, had been a keen if quiet member of the SWWJ for around 17 years. In 2009 she hosted a meeting for Essex members, plus speaker, at her Brentwood home. Brenda was also a member of the Brentwood Writers’ Circle, which she joined in the early 80s, where at various times she served as Chairman and Secretary as well as being on the committee. Her writing included articles and a well-received biography, The Bailiff ’s Son. Always quietly cheerful and willing to give a hand, she will be missed by all who knew her.
Subscription renewal 2019 Yes, it’s that time of year again – membership fees are due by 1st May 2019. There are many benefits associated with membership of the SWWJ. • SWWJ Press Card (Full and Associate Members) • The Woman Writer, four times a year • Quarterly Newsletter via email • Competitions • Regional groups • Writing workshops • Email information loop • Assisted publishing with SCRIPTORA • Drama workshops • Events • Awards • Professional credibility • Manuscript appraisal • Letters after your name (post nominals) You’ll find the subscription form on page 46.
Essex regional meeting held at Brenda’s house in 2009. Brenda is in the back row, third from left.
Change of address Will members please ensure you notify the Membership Secretary of your change of address, telephone number or email address so that we can keep our records up to date. The Woman Writer Spring 2019
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Society news ours is such a special occasion, I was delighted to be able to hear Kate 125 Mosse and to learn that she is brilliant – what a relief! Kate has sold more than 7m books. She is the author of eight novels including the multi-million selling Languedoc Trilogy, Gothic fiction including The Taxidermist’s Daughter, short story collections and also non-fiction, plays and essays. Her latest novel, The Burning Chambers, is the first in a new quartet of historical novels spanning three hundred years of Huguenot history. Her 2005 novel, Labyrinth, was the first of her international No 1 bestsellers and was translated into 38 languages! It won many awards including the Richard and Judy Best Read Award in 2006, and was selected as one of Waterstone’s Top 25 Novels of the last 25 years. In 2013 it was made into a TV mini-series and the cast included none other than the late Sir John Hurt CBE. Rumour has it that The Burning Chambers has already been optioned! It is difficult to know where to start when describing Kate Mosse: She is 57, lives in Chichester, is married to writer Greg Mosse and they have two grownup children. She has worked in publishing, is also a playwright, essayist, journalist and broadcaster and has served on countless Arts boards, including Chair of the Board of the National Theatre for eight years and, for the past three years, Administrative Director of the CFT. Known as a campaigner for increased representation of women in the arts, she was the
swwj
© Ruth Crafer
society of women writers and journalists
125th Anniversary Lunch KATE MOSSE OBE by Pamela Payne
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t the end of February, in the interests of research on your behalf, I nobly eschewed the unseasonal sunshine and temperatures of 21oC to attend a luncheon at the Chichester Festival Theatre (CFT). Believe me, it was no hardship – the food was delicious and the ambience friendly but the star turn was a talk by author Kate Mosse – who is, I’m proud to say, to be the main speaker at our 125th Anniversary Gala Lunch at The Stationers’ Hall on May 2nd. It is quite a responsibility finding willing speakers and booking them well in advance. An author might be a talented writer but that does not mean they will be a competent speaker – you have to take them on trust and, as this celebratory lunch of 8
Spring 2019 The Woman Writer
Society news co-founder of the Women’s Prize for Fiction. She was awarded an OBE in the 2013 Birthday Honours for Services to Literature. I don’t know how she finds the time but she also voluntarily hosts pre and post-show discussions at the CFT. She is the author of Chichester Festival Theatre at 50, which, interestingly, was crowd funded! She is undoubtedly an enthusiastic and hardworking supporter of the arts – now including The Society of Women Writers and Journalists! Note: PS: If you would like to be able to buy signed hardback copies of ‘The Burning Chamber’, ‘Labyrinth’ or any of Kate’s earlier books, do please let me know in advance so that these can be ordered, otherwise there will be lots of paperbacks available. Please see Pamela Payne’s contact details on page 2 of the WW.
125th Anniversary Lunch MENU Wye Valley Asparagus (Bavarois, Poached Duck Egg Dressing) * * * Breast of Chicken (Braised Hispi Cabbage, Potato Fondant, Wild Garlic Mushrooms, Broad Beans) * * * Chocolate & Cherries (Chocolate Mouse, Cherry Jam, Almond sponge) * * * Wine or Juice – Coffee and Petit Fours VEGETARIAN MENU Heirloom Tomatoes (Goats Curd, Tomato Jelly, Basil Shoots * * * Roasted Stuffed Piedmont Pepper (Ratatouille, Halloumi, Basik, Polenta * * * Chocolate & Cherries The Woman Writer Spring 2019
SWWJ welcomes new members FULL MEMBERSHIP Janet Gibson, Islington, London Membership number: 769 Member of NUJ and author of many articles – teaching materials for GNVQs; company financial reports; articles in Evening Standard and editing for various magazines; reports on sex, drugs, alcohol and young people; case studies on marketing, retail and sales. Janet is a convenor on the Opera All Party Parliamentary Group. Amie Spurgeon, Axminster, Devon Membership number: 771 Amie is dyslexic and found that there were few books available to helped readers with this problem. So she set about remedying the matter. She has two books published aimed at adults, created without fictional language or long complex words. They have been designed to encourage continued reading and to act as stepping stones to carry on developing reading skills and spelling.
FRIEND Karen Grinter, Rushden, Northants Membership number: 768 Kerry Cooper, Kendall, Cumbria Membership number: 770
HONORARY MEMBER Penny Holroyde, London Membership number: 773
REMINDER Don’t forget, the editorial deadline for the Summer issue of The Woman Writer is Friday 17th May 2019. 9
Obituary
Wendy Hughes – 1948-2019
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by Pamela Birley
endy Hughes joined SWWJ in July 1987, and after promotion to the Council became Minute Secretary, and then Membership Secretary, a post she held until she retired in 2014. There is only one way to describe Wendy, and that is courageous. Despite suffering from the debilitating illness Stickler Syndrome from birth, she refused to let her ill health impede her in any way. Forced to retire at thirty-eight due to the illness, which was not diagnosed properly until 1988, Wendy used her knowledge of her ill-health, to found the Stickler Syndrome Support Group, in order to try and help other sufferers, as she felt it would be to their advantage to know they were not alone. She also wrote and edited a quarterly newsletter for the Group, and in 1995 she wrote Stickler – The Elusive Syndrome, which was first published in 1995 by Celtic Connection; with a new revised and updated edition being published in 2006. She also succeeded in obtaining a grant from the National Lottery, which enabled sufferers to keep in contact with each other, something Wendy considered essential. Apart from this work, and lecturing about her illness to both medical students and professionals, Wendy was also a prolific freelance writer, having had over 2,000 articles published in a variety of magazines, in addition to books published by the History Press and the Welsh publisher, Gwasg Carreg Gwalch. Another of her interests was a writing workshop, which she founded at Walton-on-Thames, where she encouraged a number of enthusiasts, some 10
of whom eventually were published. All this activity coincided with operations on her hips and knees, not to mention twenty on her eyes. Despite her health worsening, she never complained, was always generous with her friendship and writing advice, and sustained a sense of humour that was infectious. During the many SWWJ outings and weekends, which she attended with her husband Conrad, it was difficult to realise that she was in fact unwell. Her determination to succeed was remarkable, as was her courage on being diagnosed with liver cancer last year, just when she and Conrad were looking forward to celebrating their 50th Wedding Anniversary. Despite the diagnosis, she opted for a liver transplant but, sadly, her health deteriorated too much for the operation to be attempted, and she died at home on 28th January 2019, surrounded by her devoted Conrad, and loving sons, Craig and Richard. A kind, generous woman in every way, who only wished to help others, and who will be very much missed by those who loved and cared about her, I think her remarkable outlook and courage could be best summed up in her own words, taken from: Wendy’s Story – Stickler Syndrome: “…my best advice is take each day as it comes, get out and meet friends, and most of all enjoy the most precious gift we will ever have, the gift of life.”
Spring 2019 The Woman Writer
Members’ news
Success! Going large Margaret Mounsdon has sold large print rights of her two ‘pocket novels’ entitled The Eighth Child and Castle of Flowers to Ulverscroft. She has also sold her latest pocket novel to D C Thomson (her 34th), entitled The Jade Turtle.
Well done! Dawn Knox won first prize in the Brentwood Writers’ Circle’s Nancy Meggs non-fiction competition. In her entry Dawn used the theme of weather to explore the contrast between science and the ancient world’s belief in gods.
Dawn Knox (left) receives her trophy from BWC President, Frances Clamp.
Overseas success Mari Wallace, who lives in New Zealand has had her short story, Don’t Judge a Dog by its Cover, selected to be in the new Chicken Soup for the Soul book on ‘Life Lessons from Your Dog’, which will be published in the USA in April. There have been many books in the ‘Chicken Soup’ series over the years. They started in 1993 and new titles have The Woman Writer Spring 2019
appeared regularly since then, always featuring a collection of inspirational stories. Mari’s story is a tribute to the first lurcher dog she had who was a wonderful member of her family.
Book signing and award! Ann Evans was delighted to have her reluctant reader book, A Little Secret, shortlisted in the Coventry Inspiration Book Awards 2019. After weeks of elimination rounds where all the shortlisted books were voted on, mainly by school children, she was thrilled to see her book came top in the Rapid Reads category. There will be an award ceremony later this year. A Little Secret, which is published by Badger Learning, is also currently shortlisted in another competition: Reading Rampage 2019 – Leicester’s Secondary School Book Award. The winner will be announced in June at a special event at a Leicester school. If that’s not enough, Ann held a book signing with co-author of their novel, The Bitter End. She and debut author, Robert D Tysall, signed copies of their supernatural thriller at W H Smith in Nuneaton. The book, published by Bloodhound Books, hit the #1 Amazon Best Seller in Psychic Thrillers when it was released last year. Robert D Tysall and Ann Evans (left) sign copies at WH Smith in Nuneaton.
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From the archive Members return to Stationers’ Hall by Sylvia Kent Writers – do you ever consider how lucky you are in today’s technological world? Most of us moan about the problems with computers and new apps, but if you were to study the period after World War Two, you may think differently. Post-war book manuscripts and newspaper copy had to be typed. This caused problems as many people were not able to use typewriters, so relied on agencies or kindly souls who had learnt touch-typing at school. Paper was in short supply even until the 1950s. Our Woman Journalist magazine went to 18 pages and the font was tiny, so many people had difficulty in reading it. Every inch was covered with print, even on the cramped back cover page. At this time, typewriters were mainly black, large and cumbersome. There were no office photocopiers. Hand-operated stencil machines (Gestetners) were used with waxy skins on which we typed, tricky to amend. Carbon paper was ubiquitous – we sometimes used up to six pieces between pages. As photography was rarely used in offices, ‘blocks’ were useful when illustrations were required. Accordingly, our Society magazines of the 50s were usually devoid of images. Both Vera Brittain and Helena Normanton, Britain’s first woman KC, also wrote for us. The celebrated writer and one-time chairman Theodora Roscoe wrote in January 1951: “I would like to see the Woman Journalist in a different format, one that is more the size of The Spectator or John O’London’s Weekly, but not yet till paper is less precious – perhaps in two years?” 12
In 1951 our SWJ title of almost sixty years changed. We added the word ‘Writers’ and became the SWWJ. However, no alteration to our monogram came until 1959 when the Society endowed a stall in St Bride’s Church, Fleet Street. This seat bears the letters in gold, SWWJ on a blue background in a Gothic design. This was created by Roland Collins. By the end of the 50s, paper became more plentiful. We were still attracting Britain’s best writers to contribute to our magazine, so people such as Barbara Pym, J G Ballard, J B Priestley, Sir Compton Mackenzie, Alison Uttley and Daphne du Maurier among others, posted in their copy. Even Spike Milligan contributed a long feature about God! For some of our competitions, we were lucky enough to have judges such as Terence Rattigan, Edward Shanks and Noel Streatfeild among other famous names, including poet John Masefield. Sadly, he bowed out due to grave illness. In June 1955, our magazine published an impressive list of guest speakers who joined us at Stationers’ Hall. Vera Brittain and Ursula Bloom came in July, emphasising the value of cultivating personal contacts with agents, editors and publishers. We regularly enjoyed the company of our later President Joyce Grenfell, who said she loved Stationers’ Hall amid all its wonderful history. SWWJ members are looking forward to attending this extra-special anniversary at Stationers’ Hall on 2nd May in the same celebratory spirit as always. Noel Streatfeild, a former member and a top writer in the 50s who often came to Stationers' Hall.
Spring 2019 The Woman Writer
Tech talk Picture perfect by Carol Cannavan Some time ago I wrote a piece for The Woman Writer about the quality of images that are sent in with articles. On the whole, they are fine, but I still receive very poor, low-resolution images that either can’t be used, or I have to spend time trying to enhance them. I realise not everyone understands what I mean when I talk about the resolution, so here is a brief explanation: Images are made up of pixels (which are actually square, but are often refered to as dots) and are measured by ‘dots per inch’ (dpi) or ‘pixels per inch’ (ppi). Digital photos are made up of thousands of pixels. Images going onto websites are usually low resolution (72dpi). The reason for this is so that they don’t take up much memory. They look fine because of the medium. However, for the same image to be printed it needs to be 300dpi. Most cameras have settings for high and low resolution images. Always make sure your camera is on the highest. If you are unsure, dig out your instructions... or if you can’t find them try to ‘Google’ the information – in fact YouTube is a brilliant source of information and well worth a look.
300dpi
The Woman Writer Spring 2019
These days lots of people take photos on their mobiles. Some have brilliant cameras, but sadly there are many that only take low resolution images. Again, they will look great on your mobile, but they won’t on the printed page. When I’m sent images the first thing I do before I open them is to look at the file size. If it’s on the small side it’s very likely that a low resolution image has been sent. As a rough guide, a good size image would be at least a megabyte (there are 1,000 kilobytes in a megabyte). Recently I was sent an image that was 25kb... Now, look at the images below. The one on the left is 7cm wide and is 300dpi – 1.9mb. This quality is fine for the printed page. The one next to it is 7cm wide and is 72dpi – 610kb. This is ideal for a website. Now, if the second image was sent to me for the WW, I would have to reduce it in size to just a couple of centimetres to improve the resolution. Or, I would have to spend time trying to enhance it to so that I could get it to a decent size. Just to give this some perspective, a publisher recently asked me to supply images that were A4 in size and 300dpi. Don’t worry, I’ll never ask you for that! I hope this has helped – happy snapping! 300dpi
72dpi
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Poets’ corner
Writing as Catharsis by Dorothy Pope
I
think writers, especially poets, are among the most blessed in their being able to write out their feelings. James Rhodes, concert pianist, in his autobiography, Instrumental, and Edward St Aubyn, in his five Patrick Melrose novels, for examples, wrote themselves sound after prolonged and heinous abuse as children. Here, grief is expressed in the villanelle, a form difficult to write, but particularly suitable, its repetitions giving to agony of mind, the wanted, repeated voice.
Widowed by Sophia Daniel
Teacher’s Love by Dorothy Pope
As I reach out to touch you, you’re not there. My raison d’etre has simply passed away. The triggers for my tears are everywhere.
I wrote a semicolon upside down! I read it later on in disbelief. Grammarian if nothing else, I frown.
Surrounded by the things we used to share, there seems no point to wake each passing day, as I reach out to touch you, you’re not there.
I know what caused my punctuator’s crown to slip. Your illness, concentration’s thief, is why my semicolon’s upside down.
I must be strong, not succumb to despair, control my thoughts, elusive still they stray; the triggers for my tears are everywhere.
I see you writhe beneath the eiderdown. Disease invades what should be sleep’s relief. Grammarian, I sorrowfully frown
The yearning for that touch has laid me bare. So vulnerable, can’t keep that need at bay. As I reach out to touch you, you’re not there.
to think that “Michael”, favourite proper noun, could be brought low. In adoration’s grief I wrote a semicolon upside down!
Each room I enter boasts your empty chair. I find I have to look the other way, the triggers for my tears are everywhere.
I rail in unavailing vigil’s gown, “But fifty years is mere aperitif!” Grammarian, I watch and grimly frown
The loss of something precious and so rare, is this the price of love we have to pay? As I reach out to touch you, you’re not there. The triggers for my tears are everywhere.
to think my lovely man perhaps might drown in pain and be no longer substantif. I wrote a semicolon upside down! Grammarian, if nothing else, I frown.
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Spring 2019 The Woman Writer
Report Sunday Times Journalist gives talk to SWWJ by Pamela Payne Organised by our new Vice Chairman Rebecca Harding, several of us made our way to Finsbury Square after the March Council Meeting at the NLC for a superb talk by Jonathan Ungoed-Thomas, Chief Reporter on The Sunday Times. We were joined by a few friends, a couple of very welcome new SWWJ members and some of the staff of Grant Thornton – the accountancy firm that had kindly allowed us to use their superbly comfortable conference room. Disappointingly, no other SWWJ members were present. Jonathan’s illustrated talk about his career was fascinating. He described the background to several internationally important stories, including that of ISIS bride Shamima Begum and the recent horrific knife crimes, how the stories were broken and investigated, the ramifications of the fall out and the inevitable legal battles! As a loyal reader of The Sunday Times, I was intrigued to learn how things were done on one of the most prestigious Sunday newspapers in the world and relieved to hear that the print edition ‘should’ be around for some time to come! After a lively Q & A session we were offered wine and substantial canapés – very welcome for those of us who had existed all
day on coffee and a sandwich. The whole evening cost just £12.50 each! It was such a pity that so many of you missed a great evening so I shall invite Jonathan to one of our future National Liberal Club events – it would be fascinating to hear what he has to say about the Brexit fallout!
Tour of the BBC A few SWWJ members and friends got together and arranged a tour of the BBC in early March. Stephen Pontin, a senior audio engineer at the BBC, conducted the tour and gave a fascinating insight into what goes into getting a news item on to our TV screens, and some of the tricks behind the scenes. Everyone thoroughly enjoyed the afternoon. A big thank you to Stephen, and to Rebecca Harding for arranging it.
Jonathan UngoedThomas, Chief Reporter on The Sunday Times.
The Woman Writer Spring 2019
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Overseas members
“
This overseas page has allowed me to spend time with my ‘pen pals’ in France, Switzerland and New South Wales. The three women visited this month are very busy, extremely talented and have strength of mind by the bucket–load. Doreen Friend
” ✍
Daniela Norris is pleased to say that her new novel, Premonitions, is due to be available in the summer. “I now have advance copies of my new novel, Premonitions, which is out in June from Roundfire Books. This is the second book in my Recognitions series (Recognitions was out in 2016 and also reviewed by the SWWJ). “This is the story of Amelia Rothman, an editor from New York going through a mid-life crisis, divorce and dealing with two teenage children. She tries hypnosis as a way to let go of anxieties and battle insomnia, but when patterns of what might be past lives emerge, her very practical outlook shifts a little. Her story is intertwined with that of a French woman in revolutionary France, just after the times of Voltaire, and of an African medicine man trying to save his village from slavery in 15th century Africa.” With many thanks and warm regards. DF: Daniela is based in Geneva Switzerland and spends some time in Cornwall.
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Jenna Hines writes from France: “It's been very cold here with about 12" of snow yesterday and more to follow. Trying to stay warm. The Donkeys are fed up and, like me, looking forward to the Spring (my favourite season!), and the temperature is 16
getting warmer, hopefully. Also, I wanted to let you know I have now finished my latest novel which is available on Amazon in Kindle and paperback formats. Also details on my website at jennawritzend.wordpress.com “Candle Trees is an historical romantic novel with a paranormal theme, set in Western Australia. When ten-year-old Suzie Ferguson visits the library at home, one evening, she experiences a strange feeling, which will impact her life. Unaware that her Aunt Elisa has a 'special gift', Suzie confides in her. “Suzie becomes a teacher and begins her career at the Bush school in Lennonville. She meets and falls in love with Michael Flanders, a philanderer and a cheat. Overcoming her disappointment, Suzie soldiers on, until one day the devastating news about her aunt changes Suzie’s life forever.” DF: Jenna has promised to send some news on how her life is spent with the donkeys. I am sure it is going to be an interesting article.
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Patricia Dunkley is very busy working on a new project that she found is helping her through some not very happy times. The heat in New South Wales has taken its toll: “Unlike you, I am suffering from the heat wave; my poor brain is addled.” Nevertheless Patricia is forging ahead with an exciting project. “My writing has gone on the back burner lately, I seem to spend my free time doing my painting. Not sure if I told you I had converted my garage, which is large, into a gallery. It has a timber floor, lined and all the special lights so I am very happy with that. I am working on a series of ‘Happy Paintings’ designed to make you smile. Perhaps I could Spring 2019 The Woman Writer
Overseas members send you some photos, although I am not good at this. The garage conversion was therapy and worked for me. I had breast cancer, lost my husband after 60 years married so the art gallery was a tonic. Now working for International Women in Art exhibition to be held in March.” DF: Everyone is looking forward to seeing Patricia’s art.
SWWJ tour of Chawton House
VISIT TO CHAWTON HOUSE
Photo courtesy of Chawton House
Chawton Village, Hampshire Wednesday 3rd July 2019
COPY DATE FOR THE SPRING ISSUE The deadline for the next issue of The Woman Writer is Friday 17th May 2019. Please ensure that all copy and images are sent to the Editor, Carol Cannavan, on carol@aspire-editorial.co.uk using Microsoft Word or pasting the text into an email. Please do not embed images into the document/email; always send images separately. Use the prefix **WW in the subject line (for example, **WWsuccesses). Copy can also be sent by post to the Editor, 10 Dury Falls Close, Hornchurch, Essex RM11 3AX, United Kingdom, but should be typed rather than handwritten. Images should be high resolution (300 dpi) and a good size. Photographs are acceptable but not photocopies of book covers. If you are submitting a photo that doesn’t belong to you, please make sure you have permission for it to be published. Deadlines cannot be changed. The Woman Writer Spring 2019
Members, and especially Jane Austen enthusiasts, will be pleased to know we have planned a tour of Chawton House, once the home of Jane’s brother, and which Jane, who lived in the nearby village, always referred to as the ‘Great House.’ Set in acres of glorious countryside, it is now a charity, containing many treasures, including Austen heirlooms, such as the dining table at which Jane would have enjoyed family meals, and an extensive collection of early women’s writing up to 1830. Tickets are only £16.50 and include welcome refreshments, before a full tour of the house. Afterwards, visitors can explore the extensive garden and grounds. So do save the date for a truly delightful journey into the past. To book a place, or further details of travel and times etc., please contact Pamela Birley at: bra33@btinternet.com
DON’T MISS OUT BOOK YOUR PLACE NOW! 17
Celebrating 125 years
Women writers then and now by Laura Burkin
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s we celebrate 125 years of the SWWJ this year, it got me thinking about how far women writers have come since 1894. I was looking at my ever-growing TBR pile of books and many are by women authors. I have read and do read many books by male authors, but the sheer volume of books by women out there proves we are more than equal on this stage. Take social media; it is a definitive tool now for writers, especially women writers. The many facets – Twitter, Facebook, Instagram and so on – are platforms that are important to writers whether you are just starting out as an author or are long established. It links something that started long, long ago with a modern world which, love or hate it, lives largely online. When you look at the many writers and authors on social media, many of them are female writers and I think it has opened up opportunities like never before of getting your name and work out there. Many online communities are run by women writers. Back in 1894, it would still have been tremendously different of course – after all, still fresh in the memory was how the Bronte sisters, Charlotte, Emily and Anne, had to write under male pseudonyms in order to get published at first – it simply wasn’t heard of to be a writer and a woman. Yet, while the sisters eventually were able to break through, along with many others like them, and have their own names rightfully 18
attached to their work, leading the way for women writers, writing was still thought of as something a woman would do just as a hobby and in the privacy of her own home and time. Writing as a hobby and for your own pleasure is absolutely fine and there are many writers, both men and women I know, who do that today and do not have any ambitions to be a published author. That’s the beauty of writing; it can be what you want it to be. It is still difficult to make it as an author, but it is achievable as many of our SWWJ members can proudly testify, and for a woman, as it is for a man, hard work along with your talent as a writer, determination and persistence, can bring you the result of becoming an author. Words are powerful and can stand the test of time, they can cause trouble but also much joy. For women writers, the platform, more than ever before, is there now for the taking, women writers are competing equally for awards and jostling alongside the men for the top spots in the best seller lists and it is accepted without any doubt. Back in the late 1890s, having equal footing was still a long way ahead despite more women as journalists, authors and poets, hence the SWWJ founder, Joseph Snell Wood wanting to form our wonderful Society. It was a man who saw the talents a woman possessed in the writing world and was prompted to form our society, from which Spring 2019 The Woman Writer
Celebrating 125 years there are now many communities across the world who are in touch with each other thanks to the shared love of writing. Our overseas members are proof of that. We welcome men to be members of the SWWJ as we want to share the love of writing not as opposites, but as equals. Women writers, many of our SWWJ members included, lead the way not only with published work, but are also star guests at festivals, host masterclasses to share experiences with those on the first rung of the writing ladder. Many go on to put their writing skills to good use and become editors and publishing agents. Journalism – a profession which is the background of my writing – has women at the top, including the boardroom. The progress of a woman writer has grown as the world has changed and modified. The fact that the SWWJ, of which I am very proud to be a member, is still relevant over a century and a quarter on since it was formed, is not only down to the decision made by Joseph Snell Wood all those years ago. The success of the SWWJ is also down to the many women writers, past and present, who have joined and supported each other as members of the Society and whose talents, perseverance and love of the written word will see that the future burns brightly, whatever the world throws at us.
Photos from the Spring Tea
Laura Burkin
The Woman Writer Spring 2019
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Spring Prize Giving
SWWJ’s got talent! by Janice Grande
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hat an enjoyable and inspirational day we had at the Spring Tea Prize Giving. Even the weather had warmed up a bit to add to the pleasure. The event took place on 20th March, at the National Liberal Club. Our Chairman, Barbara Field-Holmes, gave a warm welcome to everyone at the event, and then handed the afternoon to Competition Co-ordinator Vivien Brown, who worked hard to ensure the success of the day. The Judges had been carefully selected for their expertise in their chosen fields, and gave detailed feedback on the entries that it had been their pleasure to adjudicate. You will be able to read the winning entries and extracts in the following pages. Our thanks go to the judges: Rebecca Ritchie; Elaine Everest; and Miriam Nash – and special thanks to Elaine Everest who doubled as our guest speaker. Elaine has been a freelance writer for over 20 years. She began by writing short fiction Guest speaker Elaine Everest.
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Competition organiser Vivien Brown.
and articles, specialising in canine features. She had much success in competitions, being runner up in the Harry Bowling Prize in 2012, and BBC Radio Kent Short Story Writer of the Year in 2003. Elaine was commissioned to write three non-fiction books for dog owners, which led to radio broadcasting – and helped her build contacts. These days Elaine mainly writes historical sagas for Pan Macmillan where her Kent based WW2 novels have become best sellers. She manages to write the occasional short story, and wishes she could still pitch a feature idea – if only there were more hours in the day! Elaine’s talk was on the theme of ‘I promise to do my best’, which she has demonstrated throughout her school and working life. Judging by her success in all her endeavours it is a theme we can all relate to. Everyone enjoyed the afternoon tea and mingle. It was a great chance to network and catch up with SWWJ members. Elaine Everest was on hand to sign her books, which was an added bonus. Spring 2019 The Woman Writer
Spring Prize Giving
John Walter Salver Article Competition 2018 The theme for this competition was ‘Something you don’t know about me’. Judge Elaine Everest chose the following entry by SWWJ Vice President Sylvia Kent as the winner. Sylvia wins a cheque for £100 and her name engraved on the beautiful silver trophy, presented to her at the Spring Tea.
My Secret Weapon Plus A Little Espionage
1st
“People who lived through the Cold War 50s will, one day, agree that this strange decade was like no other.” his comment from my history teacher, was, as it turned out, spot on. Youngsters seemed to grow up very quickly compared with those of today. In my own working-class background, a fifteenyear-old was considered mature enough to leave school and earn a living. Work during those 50s was plentiful, with apprenticeship or ‘learning on the job’ positions being perfectly normal. So, in the term ending just before my fifteenth birthday, I waved goodbye to my stern, but kindly shorthand teacher, Mrs Cook, and left the all-girl secondary modern school. Maybe, if I’d passed the 11+ exam and entered the local ‘grammar’, my apprehension at leaving the comparative safety of the classroom so young, wouldn’t have arisen. However, my large family, with four sisters all working in East London factories, seemed content with their chosen profession – creating up-market dresses on huge industrial sewing-machines. My parents assumed this, too, would be my destiny. But I had very different ideas. From the age of 13, when I had been introduced to a strange, phonetic writing language – the
T
The Woman Writer Spring 2019
brainchild in 1837 of Sir Isaac Pitman – I fell in love with words. Pitman’s eponymous system gave learners an ability to write rapidly. Perpetual study, drilling and examination enabled students to reach speeds of at least 100 wpm, accurately transcribing the results. Perhaps I was a little over-confident that morning, catching the tube first time to London’s High Holborn the day after my 15th birthday. Wearing my only suit made by my sister, I took my seat in the typing-pool of Austin Read, bespoke tailors to royalty. My weekly wage was £4. From this, I had to pay my train-fare and give half of what was left to my mother for my keep. My sisters, working in their ‘sweat shop factories’, earned three times my salary. Dreariness quickly set in. Instead of using my hard-won shorthand skills, my work-day comprised typing addresses on envelopes. No shorthand required – so disappointing after years of diligent practice. I began saving money to pay for evening-classes at my local college, signing up for higher office skills. I discovered that, due to my age, office work at junior level was invariably boring and began scouring the London newspapers, checking out better office positions. I saw a job advertised for Ratsouris Limited, was interviewed and joined this company which destroyed vermin in UK airbases. Impossible now to believe that poisonous Malathion and Pyrethrum were concocted behind their premises in Aldersgate. I stayed a few months, then moved on to the French perfumers Houbigant, a year later to Ind Coope the brewing champions. Next, I worked for Exquisite Form, brassiere manufacturers; then Puritan Maid, orange juice connoisseurs. Such diversity! 21
Spring Prize Giving When legally of age, I joined an employment agency, becoming an official ‘temp’. By then, I had some O-level qualifications obtained at evening class, which enabled me to choose from an assortment of London firms and a chance to increase my salary. In the spring of 1961, I joined a legal firm in the West End, close to Great Marlborough Street Court. This area in the early 60s became part of London’s famous Carnaby Street. Here, I typed up lengthy court briefs for our barristers on an ancient black manual typewriter. By then, I was using my shorthand, then 120 wpm, taking down notes from the barristers and legal clerks. I expected an element of tedium, but this wasn’t so. The legal team acted for well-known actors and comedians, including Frankie Howard who often popped in. One Monday morning I heard a hullabaloo outside the office. Peering from our window, I saw a crowd of men milling around a circle of policemen who were escorting a single man. Loud banging on the locked door followed. Our chief barrister, red-faced and looking nervous, escorted his scowling client up the staircase to our first floor office, the police crowding away the reporters who were shouting out questions. The client rushed through the main office heading for the single toilet (used by all members of the firm). He and I were then alone in the scruffy kitchen, adjacent to the loo, and I filled the kettle to start making refreshments for those present, including a cup of tea for the client. Later, I learnt that this was the infamous double-Russian spy George Blake, who was eventually tried at the Old Bailey for espionage and sentenced to 42 years in prison in Wormwood Scrubs. The date, 12 April 1961, was a red letter day in the Soviet Union, as their own cosmonaut Yuri Gagarin had become the world’s first person to travel in space. In 1966, newspaper headlines screamed of George Blake’s escape from prison to Russia. In his 22
1990 autobiography, No Other Choice, Blake explained why he had converted to Communism, becoming a spy, of his escape to Russia and parts of his tangled personal life. He also mentioned his ‘legal brief’, my old boss and the kindness of his legal team. Age 96, he still lives in his comfortable Moscow dacha being looked after by Russian officials. When two other treacherous world-famous spies Kim Philby, and Donald Maclean were alive, they shared the same KGB protection team. New technology entered British offices. Electronic typewriters replaced the old manuals; faxes and computers arrived; I accepted the new innovations, but still kept up my shorthand speeds by writing reports and radio broadcasts. I was lucky in finding work with a high court judge, a headmaster of a public school and a hospital psychiatrist. Eventually, I was interviewed for a permanent job with an American firm, Colgate-Palmolive Inc, and enjoyed working in R & D, alongside chemical engineers, creating household products which were eventually launched by our advertising agents in TV and film studios, meeting acting and singing stars such as Craig Douglas, Tommy Steele, Lulu and other famous names of the 60s. Marriage and motherhood brought me down to earth for eight years, but I kept practising my shorthand and typing, although IT was now leading the field. With my childhood love of reading and composition, I’d started seeing some of my letters published in magazines and did try writing short stories, but found this difficult while raising a growing family with so much work connected with home and large garden. Then came the ad in The Times and although my confidence was waning with age, I applied for, and got a job working freelance for the Hansard office in the House of Lords and later, the Commons. Although shorthand speed – my perpetual Spring 2019 The Woman Writer
Spring Prize Giving secret weapon – was useful, high-speed typing was what Hansard required. Her Majesty’s Government office had rarely changed its reporting system in decades before the introduction of computers. I was warned that one needed nerves of steel to keep up with the speed of the reporters who re-dictated their notes written by our fastest shorthand writers at the time. Many of these reporters had been using their skills for years, carrying out their work without the aid of the CAT computerised recording machines, now used in most parliamentary offices. By the early 90s, I had begun producing articles for magazines, such as The Lady, My Weekly, Woman and other women’s consumer magazines. As our Hansard offices was adjacent to those of the The Times and Daily Telegraph, I often joined their reporters in the canteen (Parliamentary debates, both Chambers, often continued into midnight), where I absorbed much useful journalistic information. As I had gone through intense security scrutiny when I joined Hansard in 1979, I was in a ‘cleared’ position to be offered a variety of jobs with Members of Parliament and eventually worked for a member of the Upper House, for a year on a part-time basis. The work involved meeting visiting foreign ambassadors, as well as my employer’s constituents. Stringent rules governed that we did not talk about our work outside Parliament, but later, while still in Westminster, I interviewed various well-known characters such as the first woman Speaker, Betty Boothroyd, Ann Widdecombe and Theresa Gorman among other lesser known members of the House. I remember what a super sense of humour Lady Boothroyd possessed. When showing me around her historic apartments in Speaker’s House, she laughingly invited me to bounce on the famous Speaker’s bed in her picturesque bedroom, allowing me also The Woman Writer Spring 2019
to take photographs, which I used for later articles in My Weekly magazine. Other opportunities arose when I was invited to meet my employer’s guests who were due to visit the Palace of Westminster, among whom were two of the Beatles and other entertainers. With ever-intrusive technology invading our lives today, Pitman’s shorthand is now out-dated and rarely taught anywhere. However, after dodging life on the factoryfloor sweat-shop all those years ago, I’m eternally grateful to that formidable shorthand-teacher of my childhood, who passed to me my own personal secret weapon! © Sylvia Kent Sylvia Kent receives her prize from Elaine Everest
Judge’s comments “I was gripped by Sylvia’s article from the first few lines… Sylvia’s story won not only for being a taste of past times, but for the way she pulled me into the story wondering what her secret could possibly be before leaving me spellbound as she went on past the intrigue to show me more of her interesting working life.” 23
Spring Prize Giving Here are the intriguing openings from our two runners-up, plus comments from the judge. Both received cheques and certificates at the Spring Tea. Pamela Payne was awarded second place. We regret that limited space does not allow us to publish their entries in full.
2nd
Up, Up And Away In Her Flying Machine
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hen the Royal Air Force celebrated its 100th Anniversary in July 2018 with a service in Westminster Abbey, a parade of 100 servicemen and women and a fly-past of 100 aircraft over the Mall and Buckingham Palace, my family and I watched the television in awe and with great pride. My father served in the Royal Air Force for 34 years, was awarded the MBE and, in the early days of the Allied Forces Central Europe, worked for General Eisenhower in Fontainebleau, France. My husband completed 38 years’ service, was part of the team which developed military satellite communications, and was a Station Commander. My brother served for 12 years and my mother was in the WAAFs during World War II. However, as an RAF daughter and wife, I maintain I ‘served’ for 52 years! As a daughter I suffered the privations of moving schools every two years and always having to be on my best behaviour – to safeguard my reputation as my father’s daughter! Later, as ‘the power-behind-the throne’, I supported my husband until he retired in 1994. Although my husband learned to fly at Cambridge, they were none of them professional pilots, whereas I… What you don’t know about me is that during my early years as a rookie journalist I became the Marlow Times Aviation Reporter! The small headline in a box on the front page, above a photograph of five little 24
aircraft, was: ‘Our new aviation reporter flies 5,000ft over Marlow’. Inside, written large over a double-page spread with three more photographs, the headline read ‘5,000ft over Wycombe and Marlow with Manx Kelly and his acrobats’. The sub-heading was ‘The most exciting thing that’s happened to me!’ By our new aviation reporter’... insert my name and mug shot. I opened my article with the words: ‘It was the most exhilarating, exciting and, to be honest, frightening experience of my life’. I have dined out on the story ever since! © Pamela Payne Pamela Payne receives her prize from Elaine Everest.
Judge’s comments “I felt giddy as I read Pamela’s charming story… She was no ordinary journalist as she covered what in those days would have been considered a man’s specialism – aviation. But is that her secret? No! Let’s just say that our intrepid journalist completed a commission where her feet not only left the ground, but also she managed to take the controls of the small plane! Pamela’s article was a close contender for the winning prize as her description of that time and also her day of excitement kept me spellbound.” Spring 2019 The Woman Writer
Spring Prize Giving Here is the opening extract from our third place winner, Beryl Fleming.
The Artful Dodger
I
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confess. I am one. It began when I fell in love with the theatre – and Laurence Olivier in particular – when I was 15, and saw The School for Scandal by Richard Brinsley Sheridan at the (then) New Theatre in St Martin’s Lane, London. This was a magical world, these were magical people and I wanted to be part of it… From then – and for the rest of my life – the theatre has been my first love and consuming passion – not only from the footlights side but backstage too – and the people who inhabit this magical world… What did go on behind the scenes? I determined to find out but had to wait until I was 17 and working in London. Then, before beginning my working day, I would go along to my chosen theatre at 8am and buy for sixpence (6d) a numbered ticket which entitled me to that same numbered stool in the Gallery queue for the evening (or matinee, if a Saturday) performance. Gallery seats themselves were unnumbered so it was ‘first up the stairs’ when the doors opened half an hour before the show, to grab the front row… But that wasn’t enough… I wanted to go behind the scenes too. Yet how to get there… Asking for permission to go backstage was peremptorily dismissed so… there had to be another way. At that time all theatres had a Stage Door Keeper (always male), closeted in a small cubicle just inside, where actors signed in on arrival. So one was at least able, if early enough, to see the ‘stars’ as they arrived… Some would be polite, friendly, stop to chat – others rude, unresponsive to autograph requests. Nevertheless I still have autograph books full
The Woman Writer Spring 2019
of scribbled signatures (many unrecognisable and many no longer with us); just a few wrote polite messages. Actresses were more approachable (and obliging) than actors. The St James’s Theatre (one of London’s most elegant, now long demolished) was my favourite – beautiful inside and out, elegant proscenium architecture, red plush furnishings, gold trimmings… The stage door was down a side alley and rigorously guarded (through a glass panel) by ‘Bert’ – short, fat, bald, fierce and a face like Buddha. © Beryl Fleming Beryl Fleming receives her prize from Elaine Everest
Judge’s comments “Who doesn’t love the theatre and to be able to read about someone’s experience ‘back then’, and being able to name drop Sir Laurence Olivier had my attention at once. The tricks our artful dodger Beryl got up to in order to see the stars of that time amazed me and her story kept me spellbound as I marvelled at her cheek in order to gain a signature in her autograph book. I’ll keep Beryl’s secret as to which famous actor gave her a kiss…” 25
Spring Prize Giving
Anniversary Competition Our special anniversary competition called for any form of story, poem, article or play with an anniversary theme, and our judge Rebecca Ritchie chose this entry by Beryl Fleming as the overall winner.
1st
The Letter That Was Never Posted Venice:1st October, 1985
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arling Robert, I went to St Mark’s Square as the dawn spread slowly across the sky, just as we did 10 years ago today. My birthday. It was just as I remembered it – cool and mysterious. The majestic finger of the Campanile seemed to split the sky, jostling half-awake clouds into patterns of pale apricot and grey. One or two painters were already setting up their easels… the light was perfect, pale shafts of sunlight gilding the stones. You said you wished you’d brought your violin, to serenade the dawn – and we laughed. But in the stillness we held each other and agreed it was a magical moment to remember forever… I sat there, in our favourite corner, for two hours – just remembering; watching the city come alive. As the sun came up, tourists gradually swarmed like frenetic ants off the vaporetti and into the Basilica – pushing and chattering, a mixture of languages echoing around the colonnade. Gluttonous pigeons strutted and squawked round my feet… remember how we laughed at them, deciding which ones resembled family and friends? I wandered all day – does that surprise you? Doing all the things we did together – meandering through little back streets, laughing at colourful washing strung on 26
poles, giggling at gondoliers singing corny songs as they manoeuvred boat-loads of gaping Americans (in outlandish hats) under tiny bridges… The little café with the green and white window boxes is still there, but has much bigger windows and more elaborate boxes – and a different name; there was no Giorgio in scarlet apron standing at the door, smiling a welcome as he found us a table… I paused briefly when I spotted the tiny very fat waiter with the big moustache who dropped spaghetti on my skirt… remember? Our eyes met briefly and he looked at me and moved towards me as if to speak; I almost thought he recognised me but I moved on. He might have asked questions… At dusk I watched the gondolas in the lagoon, bobbling restlessly in the fading light, the only sound the waves slapping the stones. Lovers strolled in the shadows; I envied them, longed to feel your hand in mind… I’m staying at The Carlotta… now renamed La Bella Vista. No, not in our old room. As I walked back across the piazza it was almost dark. A newspaper rustled, curled and drifted into a doorway – as unsure of its destiny as I was once sure of mine. It began to rain. For the last time I turned away, my cheeks wet with tears. Oh Robert, I believed our love was for ever!… Tomorrow I shall return to our daughter. Yes, my darling, our daughter. The daughter you never knew you had. She’s nine now and is my whole life. Her musical ability has already astounded her teachers, who describe her talent as outstanding. But considering who her father is, that isn’t so surprising, is it? She has achieved a Distinction in every exam she has taken so far and a brilliant future is forecast for her. Spring 2019 The Woman Writer
Spring Prize Giving When her dark eyes – your eyes – search my face I know that very soon she will ask questions – and I shall have to answer them. One day soon I shall have to tell her that the famous violinist whose every concert she watches on screen – or listens to – is her father. And whose talent she has inherited, along with her black hair, dark eyes and long, tapering fingers. One day… But not yet. I cannot post this to you, my darling – but in writing it I have laid my ghost. Yours forever, Suzanne © Beryl Fleming Beryl Fleming receives her prize from Rebecca Ritchie.
In second place was this poignant poem written by Marilyn Pemberton.
2nd
No Reminder Needed No circle drawn around today, No reminder of the past. For this date is deeply etched Into the very walls of my heart. Three decades ago it was, A day like any other, A day to be filled with the joy That only a babe can give to a mother. A Keatsian Autumn day, Fresh enough and fair For her to sleep outside Out in the open air. A precious hour to spend With my first born, my son; To give him my full attention, For us to have some fun.
Judge’s comments “This entry was my unequivocal winner: I loved its beautiful use of language, and the way it cleverly conveyed simultaneously what Venice was like then as well as what it is like now, as well as the emotions felt by Suzanne in both time periods. The feelings of longing and regret leap off the page, and the architecture and sounds and smells of Venice are conjured utterly vividly too. I loved the way the letter felt like a conversation… The entry took the anniversary theme and made it wholly personal and intimate… Combined, the writing, structure and characterisation all led to a thoroughly convincing love letter, and it is a totally worthy winner – congratulations.” The Woman Writer Spring 2019
One hour turned to two. “What a sleepy girl she is! Let’s go and wake her shall we? Let’s go and wake her with a kiss.” But this was no fairy tale, There was no curse to break, Only on the Day of Judgement, Will my little princess wake. No, there is no circle drawn around today, No reminder of the past. For this date is deeply etched, Into the very walls of my heart. ©Marilyn Pemberton The judge’s comments and photo are on the next page.
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Spring Prize Giving Judge’s comments “A poem about the loss of a child, which I thought impressively constructed and utterly heartbreaking. The anniversary theme was clear from the opening stanza… The themes of grief and loss are deftly portrayed – never overdone – and I thought it was a very accomplished poem. Repeating the first stanza at the end was a very effective tool to bring the poem to its resolution, conveying the emotions of pain and sorrow, and reminding the reader that we carry the ache of loss deeply within us. I found it incredibly poignant.
Marilyn Pemberton receives her prize from Rebecca Ritchie
And third place went to Roberta Grieve for her short story, Here are the opening lines…
Gran’s Special Day
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Judge’s comments
e need some bunting.’ ‘What did you say, Gran?’ Becky paused as she was about “I found this a very moving portrayal of a to go into the kitchen to make the tea. family starting to Mavis waved her arms about. ‘You know – flags and stuff.’ notice that their beloved Becky frowned. ‘Whatever for?’ mother and grandmother ‘Gotta have decorations, you know.’ Mavis leaned back in her chair and sighed. ‘Lots to do, love. Don’t know how we’ll get done is beginning to develop dementia or in time.’ Alzheimer’s… The writing ‘But, Gran. It’s nowhere near Christmas yet.’ ‘Not Christmas decorations, you daft ’apporth. For the anniversary in this entry was assured and its dialogue very – you know. Oh, what do you call it?’ Gran tutted in frustration as convincing, and I liked the she tried to think of the right word. Becky didn’t have a clue what her grandmother was on about but way it took the theme she decided to go along with it for the time being. ‘What anniversary and did something different with it. Gentle are you talking about?’ and sad, it was a ‘You know.’ Mavis laid her finger alongside her nose. ‘Not believable insight into a supposed to talk about it. It’s a special day. What’s the word? Centenary – that’s it.’ She slapped her hand on her knee and gave a family rallying around its elders. knowing smile. ‘Yes, a hundred years – that’s a centenary isn’t it?’ ‘Yes, Gran. You’re right. A hundred years.’ Becky leaned over and kissed her gran’s cheek. ‘Don’t worry. I’ll sort it. Now, how about a nice cup of tea?’ She went into the kitchen and filled the kettle. While she waited for it to boil she tried to make sense of what Gran was talking about. It was getting harder these days as she seemed to be getting more confused. Sometimes Becky went home with her head spinning from trying to keep up. As she laid a tray with the tea things she was still no wiser. The only centenary she knew about was the one hundredth anniversary of the ending of World War One. Why would Gran want to celebrate that? © Roberta Grieve (See photo on page 30.) ‘
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Spring 2019 The Woman Writer
Spring Prize Giving
The Elizabeth Longford Poetry Competition 2018 This year’s competition, which had no set theme, attracted a wide variety of poems reflecting the craftsmanship and talent of our SWWJ poets. Judge Miriam Nash chose Living Alone by Finola Holiday as the winner. Finola has now won first prize in this competition three times in the last four years – a fantastic achievement!
Living Alone
1st
She had been busy dying for so long I always expected it – this living alone – with all the proper mourning to be done there was no time to grieve or feel bereft. At least the cat was usually at home – I knew that by the sound of ping-pong balls rolling and ricocheting round the hall and very often there was something soft in the armchair. Then the cat left. So nothing alters now, only the shoes on the stairs, left toe to toe, talk one to one when I am out and yesterday still hangs about if I forget to throw the newspaper away. Nobody comes to fill up kettles or vases or has anything cutting or even gracious to say. The light switches itself on if it so chooses triggered by twilight falling on that day. I find it unsettling, living here alone with inanimate objects – even the burglar alarm sets itself off through boredom or corrosion, though there is nothing broken – the answer-phone warns me of chancers who withhold their numbers. The radio, on a timer starts mid-sentence, gargling of cyclones in Cambodia. I shall go soon – leave this hub-bub to silence – and only the ghost of my voice will speak after the tone. ©Finola Holiday The Woman Writer Spring 2019
Judge’s comments “I chose the winning poem for how fully imagined its world is and how deeply it explores its subject through image and sound. A pattern of end and internal rhymes holds the poem together within a rhythm of iambic pentameter, but nothing is perfectly regular, as in the house itself, where the light ‘switches itself on if it so chooses triggered by twilight’. ‘I find it unsettling’, says the speaker, and so do we. The poem ends with a brilliant turn where the speaker states ‘I shall go soon … and only the ghost of my voice will speak after the tone’. There’s real loneliness here. I love how the expected and unexpected sit next to each other in this poem; the tone of resignation against the imaginative engagement with ‘inanimate objects’. The voice in the poem is full and clear, working against its own silencing, making sure it goes on after the tone.”
Finola Holiday receives her prize from Miriam Nash
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Spring Prize Giving Second place went to Dorothy Pope for How Old and third place to last year’s competition judge, Claire Dyer, with Poem in which you marry Marilyn Monroe instead of me.
How Old
2nd
I am six and seventeen, twenty-five and thirty-four, and we all have to live in this ugly, inconvenient house
Dorothy Pope receives her prize from Miriam Nash.
but from upstairs, you can see clear across to Dartmoor and the beaches beyond, past the bomb damage and the four old-fashioned schools. In the foreground is the man seated at his table in the window reading the spread out broadsheet version of The Times. ©Dorothy Pope
Judge’s comments “‘How Old’ opens like the best kind of nursery rhyme: ‘I am six and seventeen, twenty-five and thirty-four, and we all have to live in this ugly, inconvenient house’. It’s funny, smart and true – here we all are, a jumble of everyone we’ve been, stuck in this house, this body. The poem is rooted in its particular moment and place – Dartmoor, a view, a man reading a newspaper… The people in this poem are rooted and fixed, like the neat four-line stanzas they inhabit, but the landscape is ‘clear’ and ‘beyond’, spilling out of that neatness with long and short lines. What I love is how lightly the poem wears all this, so that it’s just like the moment of reflection itself – brief, profound and everyday.” 30
Roberta Grieve receives her prize from Rebecca Ritchie (Anniversary competition – see page 28).
Guest speaker Elaine Everest (right), signing books.
Spring 2019 The Woman Writer
Spring Prize Giving Poem in Which You Marry Marilyn Monroe Instead of Me You wake to thin summer rain, your mother ironing, the church-
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on-the-green breathing gardenias and that slant-kind of silence before the organ plays and, in a house nearby, Marilyn is painting her nails at the kitchen table, slipping into the hour glass of a white satin dress – lips, beauty spot, kitten heels – practising her smile as she sashays through the hall. The car is waiting – a black Humber, polished to a shine – sporting silver ribbons, fake roses on the parcel shelf, its engine running and the rain stopping sudden for the yellow summer sun, for the guests, flashguns, for the headlines on tomorrow’s news. You wonder if she’ll show as you stand at the altar, your dad fit to burst – That’s my boy, that’s my boy, he says – you thinking of the beach, the subway breeze, the promise in her voice, her singing, singing voice, and the congregation’s rustling, light splitting the coloured glass, the organ sounding now Marilyn’s arriving, Rector John in his surplice – handkerchief to brow – you smiling your dazzling winner’s smile. ©Claire Dyer Note: Unable to attend.
The Woman Writer Spring 2019
Judge’s comments “A playful poem with a satisfying sting. I enjoyed its long, matter-of-fact title and how this contrasts with the lulling, enjambed lines, which bring a sing-song feel to the movie-like morning it imagines. The couplets are perfect for a poem of coupling which is also a poem of alternate life. The poem ends with an image of the groom: ‘you smiling your dazzling winner’s smile’. The speaker of the poem seems to smile slyly too. Although the title’s statement might come out of spite or even warning (given the real Monroe’s difficult life), the speaker takes such pleasure in her imagining that perhaps she’s the real winner here, writing herself out of the role of perfect bride and giving it to Monroe, that symbol of glamour and desire.”
Follow the SWWJ on FACEBOOK Members are invited to ‘socialise’ on the Society FACEBOOK page. Check out swwj.facebook and ask everyone to ‘like’ the page. Send your items to: vivienhampshire@btinternet.com
SWWJ Flickr account Photos from the Spring Tea and Prize Giving are on our Flickr page. To access and download the photos just visit: www.flickr.com/photos/139153628@N07/ Note: There are a number of photos taken at this event throughout The Woman Writer, if you would like a copy just email Carol Cannavan at carol@aspire-editorial.co.uk 31
Writing Groups
In the company of writers by Pamela Payne
I
t was lovely to read Beatrice Holloway’s report about Phrase Writers, her Hillingdon writers’ group, and to learn that not only is it flourishing but also that it is the source of support in other ways such as lifts to SWWJ events. Conversely, I was very sad to learn that our Autumn Southern Regional Meeting in Chichester was so badly attended, despite all Roberta Grieve’s hard work and an interesting speaker. This is something Council must help to rectify. I can boast of a great little monthly writers’ club on the Hampshire/Sussex borders, one which evolved rather than setting out with the intention of being anything formal. We have not, however, afforded ourselves a name – must discuss that at our next meeting! Some 22 years ago I ran creative writing courses at the Petersfield Adult Education College. When eventually I decided that my regular students knew as much, if not more, than me I resigned and pushed them out
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into the big bad world, telling them to get published – and most of them did! Nevertheless, they were all reluctant to lose the camaraderie of the classroom and so formed the Petersfield Writers’ Group. I occasionally attended as an honorary member and got to know novelists Ginny Vere Nicoll and Eve Phillips (both SWWJ members – Ginny was a recent speaker). When the Petersfield Writers folded, we three decided to meet occasionally in The Links Tavern in Liphook to talk writing. We were soon joined by author Jim Morley (SWWJ Friend). Other writers followed, including a playwright/publisher, ex BBC broadcaster/nonfiction author, poets and more novelists. We keep the group down to about eight because of the size of our room. The staff at the Links Tavern are so kind to us. They allow us exclusive free use of a lovely little snug with deep chairs and sofas, they serve us coffee and then we have a pre-ordered lunch together in the main dining room. They even turn the muzak off for us! Much to our distress we lost our favourite member on January 2nd. Ron Jameson, 95, was the most wonderful man. He had been a pilot/ wireless operator with Bomber Command during World War II, wrote daily serials for the South African Broadcasting Spring 2019 The Woman Writer
Writing Groups Association, was a travelling salesman selling Singer Sewing Machines throughout Kenya, an actor, producer and theatre manager, and then, in his 90s, a novelist. Like me, he had lived in Kenya and, although we didn’t meet, we were there at the same time! I would close my eyes whilst listening to him read from his work in progress and be transported back to the Kenyan plains and bush. “I’m going to write a book a year until I’m 100”, he would say. Sadly, he didn’t manage that but his output of three published novels (one for children) and a fourth about Kenya and even a fantasy in the making, made clear that he might well have achieved his goal, had he lived. We miss him dreadfully. So, what makes a successful writers’ group? There are so many variables. I believe that the secret is to meet in congenial surroundings: warm, cosy, comfortable with friendly staff, food and drink on tap, adequate parking and central to your potential members – speak to your local pub. Someone has to be in charge (in our case the brilliant Ginny) to limit the readings so that everyone has a turn, and to keep all criticism constructive. Occasional speakers are a good idea but the most important role of these groups is for writers to be able to air their work and get feedback from kindly fellow writers. Even as you read you become aware of mistakes or where your prose can be sharpened. Gather together your own coterie of writers, either under the auspices of the SWWJ or simply with like-minded friends and then, when you are up and running, start inviting them to the Society events and help us grow our membership. And do let us know how you get on. PS: We decided upon a name at our last meeting: Literary Links – good eh? ©Pamela Payne The Woman Writer Spring 2019
Profile of our judge SWWJ John Walter Salver Competition 2019 Clare Cooper Clare Cooper worked in the Fiction Department at Woman’s Weekly for 29 years. As Deputy Fiction Editor, she was responsible for reading, critiquing, choosing and editing the short stories for Woman's Weekly and its monthly spin-off title, the Fiction Special. She is an avid book and magazine reader, although she can't yet break the habit of looking for errors! One day, she hopes to write something of her own. In the meantime, you can read her blog at: claredotcooper.wordpress.com and find her wasting far too much time on Twitter and Facebook. Details of the competition can be found on page 34.
Follow the SWWJ on INSTAGRAM They say every picture tells a story, so follow us on swwj_official and find out what the Society and its members are up to!
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SWWJ Competition
SWWJ John Walter Salver Competition 2019 This year’s competition is for an unpublished
Short Story Theme: A surprise ending You can write your story in any genre and on any theme, but it must have an unexpected, surprising or ‘twist’ ending. Maximum length: 1500 words
Judge: Clare Cooper First prize: £100 – Second: £50 – Third: £25 Entry fee: £5 per entry or £12 for three entries. Awards will be presented at a special prize-giving event in London in March 2020 Send your entries to:Vivien Brown, 16 Abingdon Close, Uxbridge, UB10 0BU Cheques payable to SWWJ Closing date: 31 August 2019 – Please make sure that you check the RULES below before you submit your entry SWWJ COMPETITION RULES Please read these rules carefully. Failure to comply could lead to your entry being invalidated. 1. SWWJ competitions are open to Full and Associate Members only. Unless specifically stated, Friends of the Society, Writer’s Debut members and non-members are not eligible to enter. 2. Please ensure that any maximum word or line length set for the competition is strictly adhered to. Shortlisted entrants may be asked to supply an electronic copy of their entry so word count can be verified before prizes are awarded. 3. Your membership number (NOT your name) and the title of your work should appear on every page of your entry. Please number the pages. 4. Please type or print on one side of plain white A4 paper only. No handwritten entries please. 5. Please use double spacing for all prose entries. Poems may be spaced as the poet requires. 6. Every entry must have a detachable cover sheet showing the title, your name, membership number, address, and email address and/or phone number so we can contact you. 7. Entries must be accompanied by the appropriate fee. Cheques to be made payable to SWWJ. A maximum of three entries per person to each competition is allowed. Sending cash is discouraged. 8. Entries received after the closing date may be disregarded with no return of fee. 9. If you would like to receive a copy of the judge’s report, please also enclose a self-addressed envelope of suitable size and bearing the correct postage. 10. Entries MUST NOT be previously published or have been read or performed in any public domain up to the closing date. They should not be currently entered into any other competition. 11. Please do not send your entry by recorded/special delivery or registered post. Enclose a stamped self-addressed postcard if you wish us to acknowledge its safe receipt. 12. Keep a copy of your work as the Society cannot be held responsible for the loss of your entry, in the post or otherwise. Manuscripts will not be returned after judging. 13. Cash prizes for winners and runners-up vary per competition and will be as advertised. 14. In the event of a large number of entries, or if the judge requests it, the Society reserves the right to appoint a shortlisting panel. 15. Please keep the prize-giving date free in your diary and book a ticket to attend if at all possible. If you are a winner, we would like to congratulate you and present your prize to you in person!
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Spring 2019 The Woman Writer
125th Anniversary Lunch
125th Anniversary Lunch Thursday 2nd May 2019 at Stationers’ Hall, Ave Maria Lane, London EC4M 7DD Arrive 11.00am for 11.30am
Speaker: Kate Mosse, Author (Application form can be photocopied) Name ……………………………………………….
Membership No. ……………
Address …………………………………………………………………………………… …………………………………………………………………………………………….. No. of tickets @ £49.50 ………………
Cheque amount ………………
Name of guest(s) ………………………………………………………………………… ……………………………………………………………………………………………. ……………………………………………………………………………………………. Any dietary requests. (Please ensure you list all dietary requests. These cannot be provided without notice.) …………………………………………………………………………………………….
BOOKINGS MUST BE RECEIVED BY 18th APRIL. There can be no refunds after this date. For tickets please send the completed form with any dietary requests, together with a stamped SAE (letter or A5) and cheque made payable to SWWJ, to: Janice Grande, 4 Fraser Close, Laindon, Basildon, Essex SS15 6SU.
The Woman Writer Spring 2019
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Marketing
On time, every time Patrick Forsyth suggests a prerequisite to earning from your writing
C
onsider deadlines … actually; forgive me, perhaps I might I start on a slightly different note. The question of writer’s block is sometimes touched on amongst writers. Well, let’s be honest, it is touched on a good deal and on a regular basis. For many writers – and I would include myself – people intent on earning a living, or at least a little bit of extra income from their writing, this is simply a luxury we cannot afford. A mortgage apart, the best antidote to writer’s block is surely deadlines. We sit down to write and … we write; nothing concentrates the mind more than thinking on the consequences of missing a deadline. Of course, inspiration varies: sometimes ideas and words just flow and sometimes
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they have to be prised out like winkles from their shells. If one day I send in the copy for this column in the form of one line saying, ‘Sorry, can’t think of anything for the next issue’, not only will the editor not publish it, she will likely not ask me to write anything again – ever. Not only should writers understand the problems they make for an editor if they are late: remember a book may be listed in catalogues and have all sorts of things in train for its launch long before a manuscript is delivered and likewise even a gap in expected magazine articles causes problems, especially at the last minute. On the other hand there is a positive about hitting deadlines; perhaps it is even accurate to describe it as a huge positive. Editors see such factors as a sign of reliability; being
Spring 2019 The Woman Writer
Marketing efficient in this way acts to augment your profile positively. Providing, of course, that what you deliver is on spec (the correct word count, style and content) then being seen as ‘a safe pair of hands’ can directly lead to your obtaining new commissions.
Photos from the Spring Tea
It was Peter De Vries who said: “I write when I am inspired, and I see to it that I’m inspired at nine o’clock every morning.” While experiencing writer’s block over some key plot development for the novelist is surely permitted, for many others the words are a euphemism for procrastination. Too often we complain of lack of inspiration when all that is happening is that we are putting something off or giving priority to something else. Being sure to deliver needs a systematic approach. First, don’t accept a deadline that you know causes you problems; most editors build in some contingency when they put a date to something and often such is negotiable. Give yourself sufficient time, maybe set sub-deadlines – a date on which any research will be done, another when a first draft will be finished and allow sufficient time for editing. If it looks like you will miss a deadline then admit it well ahead; last minute problems will do your profile no good at all. Best of all always aim to deliver just a little ahead of the deadline; consistently doing so is impressive. Even for work that is not, as yet, accepted for publication it makes sense to set deadlines for yourself. Saying I’m going to write a novel or I’m going to complete a novel by the end of the year are very, very different and I know which philosophy works best for me. Procrastination constantly lurks in the wings. Now, when is this column due?
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When I was not upon this page... Taps by Doreen Friend It is amazing what some of us do to earn some money, and what organisations we sell our abilities to. It may often appear that freelance journalists don’t actually have loyalty to any particular employer. I suppose you could say that is how it has been with me. Some years ago I worked two days a week as a public relations officer (PRO) for a local authority based in east London. The authority, which shall remain nameless, prided itself on being ‘Old Labour’ and it was housed in a set of not particularly salubrious buildings beside a busy main road. In my time there I got to know the names and phone extensions of almost all the council officers, admin and other staff, therefore attending meetings and making calls relatively easy. For the most part the officers were pleasant, easy to work with and willing to help me out should I have any queries. The last two days of my working week were spent around 30 miles away in very different surroundings. The nature of the work, again a local authority, was similar, such as writing press releases, liaising with local newspapers and reporters, working on council projects. Once again I learned the names and contact details of council officials, admin staff and had a comprehensive knowledge of ‘Who was Who’, and their individual responsibilities. That is where any similarity ended. I was employed as Communications Officer for a ‘very true blue’ Tory council. The offices were fairly new, had a car park, flowering plants in the summer plus a bench to sit on at lunch time. I quickly learned that whether the CEO was a Labour stalwart or a Conservative through and through, they both felt that a 38
cup of tea (and sometimes biscuits) was the most essential part of their day and rarely managed to get through their piles of work without a cuppa. Once refreshed the work would continue at a smart pace. In fact so necessary was the refreshing drink, that staff were regularly seen clutching their hot steaming mugs of tea – or coffee – lovingly to their bosoms as they made their way into the all-important meetings. As both sets of council buildings were completely different in design it was vital that I became familiar with each layout. Let’s face it, the last thing I wanted to do was to wander into a political discussion or upset any cross-party decisions, or the mayor and mayoress had I blundered into the wrong parlour by mistake. I enjoyed working in two different worlds; there never was a dull moment, really, but there was one vital something I could never get right. I was often seen standing shaking my head and sighing and muttering to myself as I stood in front of the hand basins in the ladies toilets. You see in order to wash my hands the Labour toilet taps had to be turned on while the Tory Faucet needed a push to make the water flow. Or was it the other way around? Spring 2019 The Woman Writer
Around the regions News from Moonraker Country by Dee La Vardera This is my 40th (I think) News from Moonraker Country. I started contributing to The Woman Writer in April 2009, telling you about my writing and what inspired me in my home county of Wiltshire. Ten years on, I’m still tapping away, writing about Wiltshire, among other things. I’ve just finished an article for Wiltshire Life about the Royal Voluntary Services Archive and Heritage Collection which is housed in modest premises on a small business park in Devizes. It’s an amazing collection which holds approximately two million documents, nearly 30,000 photographs and thousands of artefacts, keepsakes and uniforms, which chart the lives of women over the past 80 years. Archivist Matthew McMurray, staff and volunteers are working to catalogue and digitise the contents of hundreds of boxes – “The height of London’s Shard if all stacked up,” Matthew jokes. In contrast, possibly the smallest collection in the county, if not the country. The Samuel Hey Library, St Mary’s Church, Steeple Ashton is tucked away in the parvise – the room above a church porch. In 1816, the Rev Samuel Hey decided to build an
extension for the preservation of all the books at the vicarage, collected by previous vicars dating back to the early 16th century. When Hey died in 1828, there were 1,139 volumes. By the end of the Second World War, the collection was sadly depleted. Nine hundred books were lost to the war effort due to the efficient and enthusiastic WVS waste paper salvage campaign across the country, to recycle into such things as shell containers and cartridge wads. After the new vicarage was built in 1968, the remaining books were rehoused in their current location. Two books I loved: The History of Cold Bathing, Ancient and Modern, 1709, and An Introduction to the Skill of Musick, 1697, with beautiful flourishes of handwritten notes on the inside pages of the cover. You can feel the past in your hands as you turn the pages of these precious old books which fortunately did not get pulped. Dee's website: www.dewfall-hawk.com Note from Editor: Thank you Dee for contributing to WW for such a long time – I always enjoy your articles.
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London Book Fair The London Book Fair 12th-14th March 2019 by Pamela Payne Our best laid plans went completely awry on Tuesday 12th March! Rebecca Harding, Katherine Bolton and I were all set to attend the London Book Fair at Olympia – dressed as suffragettes! We were to be armed with baskets laden with SWWJ literature and membership application forms but sadly, owing to unforeseen circumstances, our plans were scuppered at the eleventh hour. I was already on the train when I got the news so I decided to go anyway – and I’m glad I did so. I knew that Vivien Brown and Benita Cullingford had intended going so, thanks to mobile phones,Vivien and I met in the Authors’ HQ where we enjoyed a couple of lectures – one of which has almost certainly provided me with a possible speaker for 2020. Happily, despite the vastness of the exhibition hall, we later bumped into Benita and her daughter, Sharon Hoylake, both of whom were having a successful networking day. Olympia did not feel oppressive, thanks to the airy two-level atrium. It seemed that every publisher under the sun was there and all were busy interviewing authors or entertaining their existing clients. The big boys had enormous stands heaving with staff but it was well worth going to the ‘E’ area where the small presses hung out, all ready for a friendly chat. If we could find the funding/sponsorship, this is where we could have a stand; the publicity/footfall would be enormous and it would be a wonderful way of reaching out to young writers. There were many coffee stalls and cafés providing sandwiches, salads and simple hot food – or you could book a table at the 40
large and more tranquil Ivy Restaurant. There seemed to be ample tables positioned around the eateries but chairs were in short supply. It was the same in the lecture areas so arrive early enough to grab a seat – let the youngsters sit on the floor to scribble the words of wisdom in their notebooks! The Kensington/Olympia overground railway station is directly opposite the exhibition hall so, if possible, don’t take coats and surplus bags which need to be put into the cloakrooms – the queues were long and, although there were several efficient staff to take our belongings to the storage, there was only one poor lady taking the money. When applying for your 2020 LBF tickets check whether or not you are entitled to free entry with your SWWJ press cards or through your agents/publishers. My press pass was valid for three days and I wish I’d booked a cheap hotel so that I could have attended more talks. Perhaps we three suffragettes should consider making a little holiday of it next year – in three days we could sign up all of London!
Left to right: Benita Cullingford,Vivien Brown and Pamela Payne are all SWWJ Council members.
Spring 2019 The Woman Writer
Markets & Competitions Writing opportunities by Carol Cannavan Here’s a round-up of markets and writing competitions to keep you busy! Although every effort is made to gather correct information, it is down to you to contact individual publications/agencies and ask for their current writing guidelines and find out if any costs are involved. Good luck!
UK markets The People’s Friend has a range of guidelines on its website that cover: fiction, poetry, features, photography, short stories and pocket novels. They welcome new writers but say it is essential to read the magazine for several weeks to get a feel for their very distinctive style. Website: www.thepeoplesfriend.co.uk/guidelines/
Competitions Bristol Short Story Prize Stories on any theme, up to 4,000 words. 20 stories will be shortlisted and published in Bristol Short Story Prize Anthology Volume 12. The winner and two runners up will be selected from the shortlist. Please visit the website for the full list of rules.
Prizes: £500, £250, £100 Closing date: 26th May 2019 Entry fee: £6 Website: www.welshpoetry.co.uk Blue Pencil Agency First Novel Award The Award is open to unrepresented and unpublished authors for a novel in any adult fiction genre. They are looking for the first chapter(s) of the novel up to 5000 words. Winners announced 30th September. Please visit website for full details. Prizes: £1,000 + introduction to literary agent, Nelle Andrew. Runner Up: £250 + manuscript review. Closing date: 31st May 2019 Entry fee: £20 Website: https://bluepencilagency.com/ competition-first-novel-award-2019/ Frome Festival Short Story Stories can be on any theme and in any style, but must be written in English and be between 1,000 and 2,200 words in length (not including the title). Stories which fall outside this word length will be disqualified. Please visit website for rules. Prizes: £400, £200, £100 Closing date: 31st May 2019 Entry fee: £8 Website: www.fromeshortstorycompetition. co.uk/rules/
Prizes: £1,000, £700, £400, £100 Closing date: 1st May 2019 Entry fee: £9 Email: enquiries@bristolprize.co.uk Website: www.bristolprize.co.uk
Bath Novel Award 2019 First 5,000 words plus one page synopsis of novels which are complete – any genre.
Welsh Poetry Competition The 13th international competition is now open and accepting entries! Previous winning entries can be found on the website.
Closing date: 2nd June 2019 Entry fee: £25 Website: www.bathnovelaward.co.uk
The Woman Writer Spring 2019
Prizes: £2,500 plus literary agent introductions and manuscript feedback
Continues on page 43
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Book reviews A Polish Symphony by Barbara Cluff Printed by: ImprintDigital.com ISBN: 978-0-9568548-7-2 Reviewed by Sue Flint If I was to say I enjoyed this book I feel it would be disrespectful to Polish people who endured the cruelty, hard labour, hunger, cold and grim life from 1899 onwards. However, I admire the grit and family bond that the characters have. The story, based on true events, made me value freedom. I can only imagine being a ‘possession’ or a number rather than a person and my weak spirit whispered ‘I’d rather die than endure this suffering’. I was inspired by Viktor and Anna’s hope and faith; how they stood firm to their morals and refused to steal. The story takes the reader through bloody battles of gun fire, explosions and death to a walk of a thousand miles in blizzard conditions to freedom in 1917. I rejoiced with the family when at last they were free in their homeland again and Viktor Novakov built a home for his large family. I loved how Lola was a plucky girl who received an education and worked through the German occupation of the Second World War. I loved the telling of traditional stories and poems which are simply written but a window into another culture and family life. It is not a book to lighten your spirit but one to educate your mind and have gratitude for living in ‘peace’.
Please send all books for review to: Pamela Birley, Flat D, 49 Christchurch Street, London SW3 4AS. Tel: 020 7351 6377
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Madeleine’s Enterprise by Roberta Grieve Published by: BWL Publishing Inc ISBN: 978-0-2286057-6-8 Reviewed by Laura Burkin I have a great love for historical fiction, both writing it and reading the genre. So I was delighted when I got the chance to review Madeleine’s Enterprise. How can I describe this? A historical romance with a message that love should conquer all but it is never straightforward. Especially at a time when women were not supposed to think for themselves, run their own business and do anything that was considered back in the early days of the 20th century, to be only done by men. Madeleine Shaw and her mother are left nearly penniless after her father dies, leaving them with huge amounts of debt from his business. The pair are united in grief for a husband and father, but not when it comes to solving the debt crisis they find themselves in. Ada, Madeleine’s mother, thinks the solution to their financial problems would be to marry Madeleine off to Ralph Newman, her father’s former business partner – whose stance towards the Shaw family has changed since the death of Mr Shaw. Quite simply he is only concerned about one thing, he is determined to get what is owed to him. “A most suitable match – rich, handsome, you wouldn’t want for anything,” Ada tells her daughter when talking about Ralph. But despite being in a desperate situation and knowing that financially she and her mother would be set up for life if she marries Ralph, Madeleine is not in any mood to give up on her dream of marrying the love of her life, Stephen. Spring 2019 The Woman Writer
Book reviews She sets about taking control in order to make a life for herself, look after her mother and make her way into the world as an independent woman who makes decisions for herself. Not easy in a world that doesn’t see women as being able to take control, so the conflicts Madeleine face come thick and fast. As well as a compelling story, Madeleine’s Enterprise has plenty of drama and detail which takes you back to the time of when it is set, from the fashion to how life was for both the rich and the poor – the contrast between the two is certainly very wide. Does Madeleine succeed in solving her family’s financial problems without having to resort to marrying someone who she does not love and doesn’t love her? Does she put her own dreams aside in order to survive or will true love be the reward for all the sacrifices she makes? I won’t spoil it for those who have not yet read this book, but heartily recommend this epic story of love, heartache, guts and determination and a chance to step back in time.
Have you booked your place for the 125th Anniversary Lunch being held at Stationers’ Hall, London on 2nd May 2019? Our President The Rt Hon Baroness Benjamin of Beckenham OBE DL will be there along with best selling author Kate Mosse OBE.
Markets & Competitions Bruntwood Prize for Playwriting The Bruntwood Prize for Playwriting is the UK’s biggest national competition for playwriting. It is a search for great new plays and great writers. They are looking for scripts that are original and unperformed, by writers of any experience. Prizes: £16,000, 2x £8,000 Closing date: 5th June 2019 Entry fee: FREE ENTRY Website: www.writeaplay.co.uk Brentwood Writers’ Circle – 100 words The theme is ‘100 years ahead’. The short list will be judged by a presenter from BBC Radio Essex. The competition challenges entrants to write exactly 100 words (you can add a title outside of that limit). Send entries in the body of the email or post to: The Secretary, Brentwood Writers’ Circle, 1 Delta Road, Brentwood, Essex CM13 1NG. As a condition of entry, the organisers will assume permission to reprint the winning stories in the media (for example the local and county press). Entrants should provide their full postal address/telephone number as well as their email address. Further details on website. Prizes: £50, £30, £20 Closing date: 30th July 2019 Entry fee: £3 (pay online or by cheque) Email: compentry@brentwoodwriterscircle.org Website: www.brentwoodwriterscircle.org
The booking form is on page 35 – Don’t miss out! The Woman Writer Spring 2019
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Point of view Bridge over troubled waters by Daniela Norris
I
love doing home-exchanges. They allow my family and me to travel to places that would otherwise not be affordable to us. In the February half-term holiday, we found ourselves near Grenoble, France. A French family spent some of the summer at our house in Truro, and in exchange let us stay at their ski chalet, not far from Saint Pierre de Chartreuse ski station, for a week. It was an easy exchange – easy for them to come to the UK, easy for us to go to France. When I go on holiday I try to shut out the news – television, radio, even newspapers, but with my background in international relations and interest in current affairs, it’s never easy.
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As I look out from the terrace at the majestic, snow-capped mountains, I realise something that inevitably takes me back to ‘current affairs’. These mountains around me have seen centuries, even millennia, come and go. They’ve witnessed famines and destruction, two World Wars, and also peace accords being signed. And yet, for these mountains, nothing has changed, and not much will change, Brexit or no Brexit. Politics are like the wind, or the birds, or the snowflakes: one fraction of a moment these events are here, and in the next, they are not. But for the people around me it’s different. They have one topic of conversation that they keep coming back to. I have been fortunate enough to live in France for fifteen years and in the UK for two. As a Canadian/Israeli, I am a ‘foreigner’ in both places but love both peoples. I even
Spring 2019 The Woman Writer
Point of view married an Englishman some fifteen years ago. These days, I am filled with sadness as I watch friends on both sides of the channel, who need to make life-altering decisions. I see British friends who’ve been living in France for decades; they made France their home, they now have French partners and French children. I see French friends who’ve been living in the UK for decades. They have British partners and British children. They never imagined that they would one day be asked to justify their being here. And yet, many of them feel as if they currently are in a no-man’s land, not here and not there. They await – like everyone else – decisions that seem impossible to make. Then there are us, writers, who can, and perhaps should, help. The cliché of the pen being mightier than the sword could be valid in this case, but let’s leave the swords alone and talk about bridges. Many British people don’t realise how hostile the UK currently feels to those ‘foreigners’ living here. Those of us who didn’t come to stay illegally or steal jobs from others or take advantage of the NHS. Those of us who came to the UK because they love the culture and the people; those of us who have British families even if we don’t happen to be, and don’t intend to become, British ourselves. This is why we writers can be like bridges. We can help soothe and smooth what feels like violent times, perhaps aid those who are here with us to feel welcome in what are very troubled times. Many of us know (and love!) Simon and Garfunkel’s 1970’s song Bridge Over Troubled Water, and listening to it the other day made me realise that this is what we writers are, could be, and – perhaps – should be.
The Woman Writer Spring 2019
A word about book reviews... If you want your book reviewed in the WW, please ask your publisher to send a hard copy only to: Pamela Birley, Flat D, 49 Christchurch Street, London SW3 4AS. Tel: 020 7351 6377 Email: bra33@btinternet.com PDFs or entries sent by computer will not be accepted. The hard copy of the book is the only payment for their services that the reviewer receives, so please do not ask for the book to be returned. Send an image of the cover of your book to Carol Cannavan or ask your publisher to send the cover photo to: carol@aspire-editorial.co.uk Please be patient. The review of your book will be in the WW, but sometimes there is a backlog. Also, we are unable to review a trilogy or series of books at one time and books submitted should be recently or newly published. A copy of the WW containing the review will be sent to the publisher, unless the book is self-published or the publisher doesn’t give a postal address on their website.
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Subscription renewal
Dear Member, A gentle reminder that it is subscription renewal time on 1st May 2019. Please ensure your subscription is paid in good time. Below is the renewal form. It would be appreciated if members would use the STO method of payment for subscriptions. Ensure your membership number is quoted for identification.
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PLEASE PRINT CLEARLY Excluding Friends, if you have not already done so, please provide a photo (passport size) showing head and shoulders in jpeg format or high quality original to receive a Press Card. Full and Associate Members not providing a photo will receive the plain membership card. Fees: Full £55, Male Assoc £50, Overseas: Full £45 (GBP), Male Assoc £40 (GBP). Friend £30. I enclose cheque to SWWJ for £………
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I am forwarding/enclose/have already sent a photo/jpeg (Friends N/A) to swwjval@aol.com Please tick interests: Journalism
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Data protection Owing to more stringent rules, which came into force in May 2018, the SWWJ requires your consent to hold your personal details for the purpose of contacting you on Society business. I consent to SWWJ holding and using my personal details for all business matters to do with the Society. Signature …….…….….………….……………….….……………….………………….… Please sign this form and send it to: SWWJ Membership Secretary, Bradmore Farm, Bradmore Green, Coulsdon, Surrey CR5 2LQ. Payment can be made by cheque, STO, bank-to-bank, IBAN or Paypal. (Methods of payment details available from swwjval@aol.com) Please enclose an SAE for your membership card. (Can be photocopied.)
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Spring 2019 The Woman Writer
Diary dates DATES FOR YOUR DIARY 2019
17th April:
SWWJ Southern Spring Meeting
2nd May:
125th Anniversary Lunch at Stationers’ Hall, London
17th May:
Copy deadline for the Summer issue of The Woman Writer
17th June:
SWWJ Council Meeting at NLC
3rd July:
Visit to Chawton House
30th August:
Copy deadline for the Autumn issue of The Woman Writer
31st August
SWWJ John Walter Salver Competition closing date
9th September:
SWWJ Council Meeting at NLC followed by AGM
17th October:
SWWJ Poetry Day at NLC
Date to be confirmed:
Autumn visit to The House of Lords
25th November:
SWWJ Council Meeting at NLC
29th November:
Copy deadline for the Autumn issue of The Woman Writer
5th December:
Christmas Tea at NLC
The Woman Writer is published four times a year: New Year (January), Spring (April), Summer (July) and Autumn (October). Copy dates are listed above. Send your copy to carol@aspire-editorial.co.uk The SWWJ Newsletter is published bi-monthly. Copy that misses the WW copy dates will be passed to Doreen Friend for the Newsletter at doreen.friend@swwj.co.uk To receive the Newsletter, please make sure we have your current email address. Regional meetings take place at the advertised venues. Council meetings are held at The National Liberal Club,1 Whitehall Place, Westminster, London SW1A 2HE. The Woman Writer Spring 2019
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28 | Diary & Services
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