Meeting held 3rd February 2011
Suggested theme: Afterthought
Our last meeting in December had been cancelled because of the weather, so it was grand to see everybody again. There were apologies from Jean Tyler and Sue Davan and our thoughts are with John wishing him a speedy recovery.
The meeting welcomed a new member, Jill Dunlop and for her, and perhaps his own benefit, Iain outlined roughly the aims and methodology of the Group. In this he was aided, abetted and corrected by some of the longer serving members. The Group were informed of the publication “Continuum” by five of the members and they were also reminded of the existenc of the web site , www.torringtonwriters.co.uk.
The theme for the meeting was “Afterthought” and the responses were varied. Penny presented us with set of short poems concerning man’s relationship with dogs. With her usual flair for language her work depicted the agony and ecstasy of pet ownership. Robert’s thoughts on the financial crisis, presented in firm metre and rhyme scheme made everybody smile.
Stef read us a diverting and illuminating poem from Jean on student days, the afterthought almost a celebration of the guilt of student ploys. Stef’s own contribution was a succinct comparison of a small family car and a garden in various seasons. May her idiocyncratic take on life continue to prosper.
Charles’ observation on a spare left over bulb, which had flowered and faded, was extremely thought provoking and demonstrated his ability to make connections which many of us fail to do. Elizabeth’s short story about misplaced kindness and thoughtfulness had a most marvellous twist;.
Bill gave us the best “Twitter” I have heard this year and then some acerbic afterthoughts on teachers and their influences. Mike’s essay on self -awareness was reminiscent of MacDairmid’s “A drunk man looks at the thistle”. Roy’s sad and tender thoughts on dementia were heartfelt and poignant. The hopelessness of the long goodbye was expressed in a finite, fearless fashion. Iain gave us a mountaineering poem...... and some wine.
The subject of the next meeting on 3rd March is “Sailing”,
Anyone who wishes to obtain a copy of Continuum (price £5.00, donation from proceeds to ShelterBox please make contact through the website (www.torringtonwriters.co.uk)