Horror 3: Red Inkworks Horror Writers Resources

I found this as a result of a google search and what a find.

The Red Inkworks Horror Writers Resources .... red ink, geddit, I love all this kistch and cheese .... has a dazzling links page .... from the more prosaic http://www.allthingszombie.com/ to the incredibly useful Top 7 Books on Writing Horror.

The 'site map' actually brings up an exhaustive table of contents there are a list of Writers Resources that would be really helpfull to any writer - not just in this genre - and writers tools again a very useful list of resources that would help writers of all genres. Those two are just two pages in about 25 which are packed with information .... a really great site.

Horror Post Script just before we bring to an end this little mini sieries Id like to mention the International Horror Writers Association which is a superset of the UK Horror Writers Association we mentioned a few days ago.

So thats it - Hallowene over for another year - I find the scarriest thing is the armies of little, erm, scamps, that wander all over terrorising and extorting sweets out of us. So the clock ticks to midnight .... Ive survived once more .... wrote my little pieces on Horror Writing .... and we managed not to mention Geoffrey Archer .... aieeee...... *sound effects*

Horror 2: Horror Writers Association UK

A little more Hallowene Horror ..... this is the rather nicely designed website of the 'Horror Writers Association UK' - it was actually spotted by Jan who thought we could use a couple of ideas over at the new Felixstowe Scribblers website.

UPDATE 31.10 Mark writes....

Thanks a lot for the cool link, that looks great and now it has got me charged up to get at least one piece published so that I can join. Cheers.

News from Belinda and Geoff:

Belinda writes....

Hi Dave and Scribblers,

Thanks for all the news, still trying to catch up with everyone and emails. We had a great LOOOONG flight home and believe it or not since we have been home we don't think a day has gone by without rain apart from today - now almost midnight & beddy byes Saturday.

The rain has been much needed out where we are staying at present with my sister and they said this is virtually the first good lot they have had since long before we left 3 years ago. They are so happy we bought the rain home with us. Happy to oblige we are and while the rain reminds us of England there is a difference in the weather with it. Each day the rains have arrived as if the final part of a stage production with the opening special effects being remarkable in razzel dazzelling lightening zipping across the purple darkened skies (try saying that after a few xxxx's) and loud claps of thunder that near on deafen you. Move over dogs - is there room under this couch for me too? Within a period less than 1/2 an hour it's all over red rover and the sun is back out beaming away and in the whole time period this has happened, the temperature team with the stage show, manage to still keep the temp. at a reasonable heat above 24 degrees. So we are back home in the tropics again.

My parents were very surprised well actually everyone but the sister who picked us up from the airport and who we are staying with were all surprised - shocked is probably a better word that we were home. Of course this is only for us 2 get haircuts and have a holiday we have told them.

We fly off to Adelaide to surprise Geoff's family on the 8th November and will spend Xmas there before coming back on the 4th January to see my family for a late Xmas/New Year catch up. So much 4 a quickie and it's now after midnight. Time adjustments have been interesting and trying to feel like I am actually back here has proved interesting also. Having never been away from Australia for more than 3 or 4 months before at a time, I have really noticed huge differences and at first really felt like I was in a dream and would wake up and still be in England with my next lot of homework to do and the next meeting to attend to as I pulled out my winter woollies and turned up the heating, but that's when I knew it wasn't a dream - big difference in temperatures and for the first time since I hurt my back slipping in the snow earlier this year, I can say I have had a little over a week of being pain free. The warmer weather has done wonders for this which had become more of a hip ache before I left than a back one.

I have tried to join the online jotters but don't seem to be able to get in yet - probably the system here. Geoff has been working on sorting out my sister's computer but there is still problems with certain tasks & functions but hopefully this will all go through ok.

I hope you are all well and so good to catch up with all the news via the emails & newsletter, especially with news on Jack. Tony - I hope the foot is coming along OK and it was good 2 c everyone one last time at your party. Gordon thankyou so much 4 your wonderful story and I will reply soon. I'd love to read Scott's too if he can email it sometime to me and anyone elses who is ok with that. As soon as I get a spare minute, I too will send my story across of the 2 chairs/ picture one I had done.

Well for now in our time it is beddybyes as you enjoy another lovely afternoon hopefully there in merry England. Missing you all (& England) love to all from Belinda & Geoff .zzzzzzzzzzzz

Halloween: Mwuhahaha! Tuesday 1st November, 7.30pm at Felixstowe Library.

Hi Scribblers,

Just a quick reminder of our next meeting will be held on Tuesday 1st November at 7.30pm at Felixstowe Library.

The homework assignment will have a spooky Halloween theme and for this meeting only you may compile up to 750 words to scare the wits out of the rest of us! PLEASE BRING A BATTERY POWERED TORCH ALONG TO THIS MEETING IF YOU CAN. IT MAY HELP TO PROVIDE A BEWITCHING ATMOSPHERE!

Hope to see you Tuesday.

Keep Scribbling

Dave.

Horror 1: The Cult - ChuckPalahniuk.net - the online work of Chuck Palahniuk.

And now for something completely different.

With Hallowene nearly upon us I thought it was an opportunity to throw in a little 'Horror' for a change - or at least a few features on Horror writing.

Chuck Palahniuk is a prolific American Author - most famously of 'Fight Club' which was made as a film in 1999 starring Edward Norton.

Wether Horror is the right pidgeon hole to put Chuck Palahniuk in is a moot point. His work is certainly shocking and frightening. But it also inhabits a universe that is all to familiar - the underbelly of society - I guess you could describe it as a kind of extreem literary fiction.

Im mentioning him here as he has a very interesting website called The Cult - ChuckPalahniuk.net. As well as the usuall material you would expect on a Author's own site - photo's, reviews, items for sale and recomendations - things really are taken to a whole new level - there is a book club - forums - and even his own writing school; and this is the main thing Id like to bring to your attention - he has what he calls his writers workshop which contains a whole plethora of material.

Now a couple of qualifiers here. Firstly this would be considered by some just a little over confident in its tone - and frankly it is just slightly - but hey you must make allowances - he is a succesful American. Secondly some parts of the site you have to subscribe to join - they ask $20 a year approximately for the lowest level of membership - and wether thats fair or just a little wierd and embarassing is another question - there is even an article Why we went pay. Incedentaly I havent paid - I might in the future - but I think Ill finish felixstowescribblers.com first before comiting to any new projects.

Anyway some of the free Material is worth a look and there is really plenty to keep you going. Here are 12 Essays from 2004 - frustrating you can read only the Summaries without paying here are the Essays from 2005. Here is an example of the synopsies ....

'Brief Summary: Chuck teaches how to establish your authority from the opening lines of a book using two very important methods. The first method taught is "Heart Authority," in which you make the reader feel emotionally involved in your character by revealing something about them which makes them vulnerable... the fool, perhaps, instead of the hero. The second method is the "Head Authority," by which you establish authority through knowledge, proving to your reader that you've done your research and that the narrarator is the most qualified person to be telling this story.'

So - an interesting approach to a Author's personal website - really using technology to bring the Author closer to their audience - and establishing a whole new level of interaction. I wasnt really sure what to make of it really - and that I guess is as good a reason as any for popping it up here for you all to see .

As a little ps .... any other author site you'd care to share mail me and Ill pop them up. :-)

Update on Jack: 28 10 05.

Dave writes...

Meantime another text from Caz about Jack...

"Jack is over his infection and eating and drinking and giving the nurses what for. Yippee!"

That really is good news and so we all hope Jack will soon be back at home!

Communication Trouble: are you there Margareta?

Dave writes...

Attention of Margareta.

Please note I have received your email but my reply from scribblers@ntlworld.com - and the original email containing the report of the last meeting - bounced back as undelivered. Please check your blocked senders list to try and rectify.

Thanks.

Dave.

Break a leg! oops: Tony's Accident Part 3.

If you are interested to know what all the fuss was about you can go along and see 'Roleplay' for yourself.

FADOS Drama presents 'Roleplay', an hilarious adult comedy by Alan Ayckbourn, at Deben High School, Felixstowe, 27th, 28th, 29th October at 730pm.

Tickets £7.00 Adults £5.00 Concessions.

Box Office 01394 279613.

Or visit the FADOS Website..

Break a leg! oops: Tony's Accident Part 2.

Sorry for the delay but we have finally got our hands on a copy of the article about Tony's accident from the Evening Star. Click on the image to read the Evening Star Article about Tony's Accident.

This material is reproduced from the Evening Star as a courtesy to them and remains their property and copyright. Are you from the Evening Star and wish us to remove this material? If so please mail us. Please visit the excellent Evening Star website at http://www.eveningstar.co.uk/index.asp.

The Latest on Jack: 25.10.05.

Dave writes....

"Jack has now been transferred to Ipswich Hospital and the latest news from Caz is that he has a temperature but is resting well. So from the Scribblers we all say - get well soon Jack!"

Break a leg! oops: Piece about Tony's accident in the Evening Star.

By now most of you know about Tony's misshap when he accompanied me to the 'Keep Fit' I go to a fortnight ago last Monday. (Can I please in fairness point out Tony was really good except for the last 20 seconds).

What some of you dont realise is the story of the trouble this has caused. Tony was at the end of a spell of preperation for the fothcoming FADOS production of Alan Ayckbourn's 'Roleplay' - which he was no longer available for as he could hardly play a 'heavy' on crutches. The Evening Star article explains the story.....

'WHEN Felixstowe amateur dramatic enthusiast Tony Shearman was told to 'break a leg' before his up-coming play, little did he realise that days later he would be in plaster.'

Break a leg indeed.

Evening Star Article.

Notice how Tony gets a crafty little plug in for the Scribblers and the mini sieries.

Missing masterpieces : an article about the great works of literature that didn't make it.

A little off topic but I was just blown away by this - its an article - originally from the Independent that forms a narrative of what we know of the works of literature that were, destroyed, lost or somehow didn't make it into the 21st Century.

From Confucius's 'Book of Music' to Sylvia Plath's 'Double Take' this article weaves a haunting narrative of what once was and isn't any more.

The Australian: Missing masterpieces [October 22, 2005]: "Missing masterpieces"

Andrew Motion & Libby Purves, Halesworth: Thursday 27 October at 8pm.

Poet Laureate Andrew Motion will give a reading at New Cut Arts Centre, Halesworth on Thursday 27 October at 8pm, followed by a discussion with Libby Purves, as part of the Halesworth Arts Festival. Tickets £10. Box Office 0845 6732123 Andrew Motion & Libby Purves, Halesworth

Felixstowe Scribblers: Report of Meeting 18th October.

Felixstowe Scribblers Report of Meeting 18th October 2000

Apologies

were received from Gordon who is on Portman Road duty, Caz and Jack - details follow and from Louis who says that his work has taken him far from the East Anglian coastline since arriving home from Canada!

Inattendance were Judy, Alex, Ann, Liliane, Morag, Charlotte, Bill S, Christine S, Scott, Dick, Tony, Les, Bill B, Mark, Christine H, Lisa, Ken, Zoe, Barry, Allen, Mavis, Kate and Dave.

It was nice to be able to properly welcome Bill, Christine and their daughter Charlotte and also Barry along for their first full meeting. Charlotte is a short story writer hoping to get published whilst her father Bill S wrote his first short story that he read out at the meeting. Bill is a born again writer hoping to achieve publication once more.

JACK and CAZ

The latest news from Caz is that Jack has had his operation in Great Ormond Street and at the time of writing these notes he is recovering well. He is off pain relief and anti-biotics, keeps joking with the nurses and has even been wheeled to the hospital shop! It is slow progress after such a major operation but it is wonderful to hear all this positive news.

ALLEN

It was good to see Allen back at the meeting. Our senior member at very nearly 79 years of age, Allen has spent quite some time with his family in Wales and in Scotland. He has recently had a scan that shows him clear of cancer but soon has to return to hospital for another check. Thanks to Judy for collecting him and taking him home again.

BELINDA AND GEOFF

The day really had to come when Belinda and Geoff jetted off back to their promised land of Oz. I know that many of us had become very close and dear friends with them since they first came along to Scribblers. Belinda especially will be missed for all the cookies and cakes that were supplied for virtually any birthday or anniversary going - any excuse eh? - but that's not forgetting some of the great stories and poems she wrote with her creative innovations. Geoff? Well wasn't he great? A real good laugh. We'll miss them both as Scribblers just won't seem the same now. Our best wishes go to them for a happy future down under.

WOODBRIDGE LIBRARY

Ruth

had a successful book signing session on Sunday last by all accounts and has apparently impressed many people with The James Version. There is a waiting list for the library copies - but the book is obtainable in most bookshops in Felixstowe.

HOPALONG…

Poor Tony is currently plastered - well and truly plastered up to the left knee - after tearing his Achilles tendon playing volleyball in the Westbourne Gym in Ipswich. He expects to be out of action for about ten weeks meaning some disruption to plays and his role in the Felixstowe TV serial. At least he made it to Scribblers and still managed to get to the Alex - thanks to Alex - for an after meeting drink.

ON THE RADIO

Caught the end of a poem being read out on Radio Suffolk recently which was attributed to one Edward Giles. I wonder if this is our Edward who is now no longer able to attend? I have emailed him but have had
no response, so if anyone has any information on Edward then please let me know.

THE ONLINE JOTTERS

A reminder was given to the Scribblers that there are three ways open to publication on the website via Online Jotters. There are two writing competitions - one for short stories and the other for poetry. Additionally there is also the ongoing writer's tennis which has now reached the 10^th episode. Keep up the good work Jotters! Go to

onlinejotters@yahoo.co.uk

The next Jotters post on the website is due on Friday this week.

If you have emailed the Jotters but had no response then please advise Dave at

scribblers@ntlworld.com as

We need to know if anything is going astray.

THE WEBSITE

With over 1,700 hits now, it seems our website - albeit temporary - is being viewed by folk from all over the world. True 70% of hits are from the British Isles but that leaves 30% foreign hits with 10% each from the United States and France. Brilliant news and well done to Alex for keeping the site so informative and interesting. View it at

http://nar8or.blogspot.com

Incidentally our new website is being constructed and its progress may be viewed at

http://felixstowescribblers.com Click on the word test at the bottom right hand corner to enter the site. Anything you
spot that is not quite right or would like to suggest then please email Alex at fswebsite@hotmail.co.uk

THE PLATFORM.

With the homework held over from the last meeting, Les began the open themed work with 'Easter in Cyprus' followed by Judy's holiday afloat 'It Wasn't All Fun. '

The 500 word themed topics began with 'Afternoon Tea' by Bill S before Scott relayed 'The Wedding Party'. Bill B shared Elegance Eclipsed and Lisa 'The Mars and Venus Thing.' Christine H read 'Observations' and Ken read out Gordon's 'Table Talk'. Our poet Zoe provided some flowing lines with 'Waiting' and Barry shared his 'Table Photo'.

Mavis had left her reading glasses at home so Kate volunteered to read her extract from 'A Painters Lot'. Kate then continued with her own 'Maude' whilst Dave and Dick read another version of Bill and Bert. Alex read a stunning 'Memory of the Sea' and Ann her 'Unrequited Love'. Morag shared 'In Their Absence' and Liliane her 'Strange Happening in the Beer Garden'. To round off events Tony persuaded Dick, Alex and Ann to read parts of a parody stage play set in the days of the Cold War.

THE NEXT MEETING

Our next Felixstowe Scribblers meeting is in two weeks time on Tuesday 1^st November at the usual 7.30pm start time at the Felixstowe Library. This time it will be just a different…

The homework assignment will have a spooky Halloween theme and for this meeting only you may compile up to 750 words to scare the wits out of the rest of us! PLEASE BRING A BATTERY POWERED TORCH ALONG TO THIS MEETING IF YOU CAN. IT MAY HELP TO PROVIDE A BEWITCHING ATMOSPHERE!

For Health and Safety minded folks, personal safety will be observed at all times.

Until next time,

Keep Scribbling!

Dave

Quiz Night in aid fo Cancer Research UK: Sat 3rd December.

Dick writes.....

With our membership now so large (I) was wondering wether any of you would like to get yourself into teams of 6 in order to take part in his Christmas Quiz Night for Cancer Reasearch UK.

On the evening of Saturday 3rd December, it will be held in the Church Hall of St. Mary's Walton, with a 7.30pm start.

To take part please follow the following procedure....

(1)Get your 6 people together
(2)Pick a team leader
(3)Give yourselves a team name
(4)Give your £5 fee to the Team Leader
(5)As soon as the Team Leader has all the £5's write a cheque for £30 to Cancer Reasearch UK and post it Mr Mike Backler at 4 Shrubbery Close, Felixstowe, Suffolk. IP11 7NT.

Mike will also accept cash if the team leader delivers it in person. Tickets and a recipt will be issued on delivery of the teams £30 fee. The £5 includes refreshments but those wishing to have Alchol please bring your own.

The prize for the winning team will be wine.

The Felixstowe Thing: Chris Gosling has a new Weblog.

Our pal Chris Gosling - the Man behind Felixstowe TV, Inside Felixstowe and our partner on the mini sieries - has started a weblog - its early days at the moment well worth a few minutes The Felixstowe Thing.

Online Jotters: Writers Tennis Part Eight.

“Umm…yes” I replied, feeling hesitant.
“Ahh excellent….glad you made the choice.” He said, grinning.
I felt like I had been offered prime shore front property in Arizona
with a great view of the beach! Ok then, once more unto the
breach…or something like that.
“Where do I sign?” I said.


Mark W

Seaglass: Author financed publishing services.

Sian Parry of Seaglass Books writes ....

Getting published can be an uphill struggle. Mainstream publishers don’t always make the right decisions. Some books are never published because they are not sufficiently commercial, even if they are excellently written – poetry, experimental prose, memoir, short stories, good fiction that is in need of good editing – all are examples of books that can be passed over.

Seaglass exists to assist authors who wish to finance & publish their own titles, but who need some support to do so.

We provide:

full editorial and design services at Seaglass your book will be given hundreds of hours of editorial input to make it the best it can be and the layout and cover will receive expert attention to ensure that it you book has a high quality finish equal to any published work.

clear, affordable fixed prices our contracts ensure you know exactly what you will paying and that what you pay will be value for money – the full service for a full length fiction book is £2,000, with prices starting from only £1,000 for poetry collections or £1,500 for novellas or shorter prose works.

high quality products we work with one reputable and highly experienced printer to get the best finish possible for your book at a competitive printing price which will be quoted and agreed as part of the contract.

print runs agreed with the author we do not commit you to unrealistic print runs at high cost. You can order as few as 30 books and re-order as and when you need more copies or you can opt for longer print runs to suit your own requirements.

For full details of our services and costs go to www.seaglassbooks.co.uk or email : sian@seaglassbooks.co.uk

With Seaglass you can turn your ideas into published reality.

Regards,

Sian Parry. Seaglass Books.

Bright Light Multimedia is announc(es) its latest international online writing competition.

Our Brisbane, Australia-based publishing company, Bright Light Multimedia is announcing its latest international online writing competition. I am contacting various writing organisations such as yours to ask if you would please advise your members of this opportunity. I have included some details below and hope this information is suitable for use in your publication or website.

*************************************

Bright Light Multimedia - Writing Competition (opens October 1st)

Based on the theme “True Love”, the competition is for Articles (300 – 800 words), Short Stories (300 – 1,000 words), and Poems (to 50 lines). Prizes - $100, $50, $25, plus Bright Light product. All finalists published and performed on website and considered for future commercial product release. Entry Fee $5 (up to 2 items). Guidelines and entry form at www.brightlightmultimedia.com. Competition closes December 31st, 2005.

*************************************

Bright Light Multimedia also sponsors a free online entertainment portal called The Bright Light Café, where writers are invited to submit their unpublished work for possible showcasing (publication and performance) on the Café website, and inclusion in future Bright Light Multimedia commercial projects. I thought your members might also be interested in this opportunity, so I have included some details.

*************************************

The Bright Light Café - Submission Opportunities

Submit short stories, poetry and articles for possible publication on website and inclusion in future commercial product releases. Submitted material must be ultimately positive and heart-warming. Guidelines and online submission form available at www.brightlightmultimedia.com/BLCafe.

*************************************

If you have any questions, please feel free to contact me by return email.

Rod Kirkham
Publisher
Bright Light Multimedia
Suite 143
236 Hyperdome
Loganholme
Queensland, AUSTRALIA 4129

'Love' and 'Out of Love' two Leaf anthologies of poetry early in 2006.

We'd like to thank everyone that entered our Summer Short Story competition. A lot of writers have asked us about poetry so we are going to publish two Leaf anthologies of poetry early in 2006:

The theme is 'Love' and 'Out of Love'. This could be a happy love poem, a sad love poem, an anti love poem, really anything that you can think of.

Entries of up to 40 lines. There three cash prizes £200, £100 and £50 and publication. Entry is £2.50 per poem.

Our competitions are very much a submission process so all the poems we receive will be considered for publication.

Please send to: Leaf Books Limited, Gti Suite, Valleys Innovation Centre, Navigation Park, Abercynon, Rhondda Cynon Taff, CF45 4SN

Closing Date 15 December 2005

On top of that Leaf is now calling for submissions. We are looking for short stories between 4000 and 6000 words long or collections which total that amount.

Please see the website www.leafbooks.co.uk for submission guidelines, our email is leafbooks@yahoo.co.uk or write to us at the above address

Dreams for Fragile People: the Dream Articles Writing Competition.

Go to http://www.dreamarticles.net to discover more about the Dream Articles Writing Competition based on the Multi-disciplinary Therapeutic Ebook: Dreams for Fragile People.

There are also quite a few interesting articles such as A Checklist for writing articles that get read or Ten Top tips for new writers.

Tuesday, October 18th at 7.30pm back in its usual home, Felixstowe Library.

Hi Scribblers,

A bit of a 'newsy' reminder this time.

Starting with the next meeting: It will be this coming Tuesday, October 18th at 7.30pm back in its usual home, Felixstowe Library. For those inconvenienced last time, please accept my apologies.

The homework remains the same as before - those garden chairs and table - with the open theme 1,500 work being done by Judy and Les. The rest of us will have to make do with a 500 word limit.

Morag reminds us about Ruth's talk and book signing at Woodbridge Library this coming Sunday starting at 2.30 pm until 3.30 pm. Morag will interview Ruth and I suspect they would like to see a few friendly faces in the crowd!

News of Jack has filtered through from Great Ormond Street Hospital. Morag's daughter Lindsey, who works at the hospital, sat with Caz waiting for Jack to come from theatre. The operation took longer than expected but is believed to have gone well. Caz has been bearing up well under the circumstances and I am sure as soon as she feels able, she will give us an update.

For those who haven't viewed our website lately go to http://nar8or.blogspot.com where there is a picture of Jack along with his new puppy, Kai.

New has also filtered through that Tony has injured his Achilles tendon and is now in plaster for several weeks. Our wishes go out to Tony and, of course to Jack and family.

Last but not least there is an update from Gordon at http://gigglebits.blogspot.com It's a really great site - obviously good for a giggle...

Until next Tuesday,

Keep Scribbling!

Dave

Jack and his new 5 week old Golden Retriever Labrador Puppy which Jack has called Kai

Dave writes....

Anyway, could you use this photo of Jack on the website, perhaps ..... He is seen here with his new 5 week old Golden Retriever Labrador Puppy Jack has called Kai and which he will collect after his radiotherapy.

Caz and Jack set off for London today (Tuesday) to stay in the patient hotel before going onto the ward at Great Ormond Street tomorrow (Wednesday) followed by Jack's operation on Thursday.

Let's all send our good wishes to Jack - and of course to Caz and Karl - and think of them especially on Thursday.

Post Script to 'Hello Perthling's': 'PigleT's witterings'.

There has been no post for 48 hrs - other than a spot of writers tennis - and I was saving this one for the next time we had a quiet spell.

Tim Haynes popped up on the Hello Perthling's comments page making a point about the light pollution caused by the Perth Event.

That asside I followed a few links and dicovered that he is quite a photographer.

There is just so much material it is difficult to know where to start but you could at PigleT's witterings which is a sort of weblog or recent pictures in chronological order or look at his gallery where you can choose pictures by their geographical origin.

Tim's Scotland based so there is a big emphasis on the Scottish landscape.

Ruth to be interviewed by Rachel Sloane on BBC Radio Suffolk about her new role at Felixstowe TV

Ruth will be on on Monday 10th at about 1.35pm, see the Latest report for yourself at Felixstowe TV.

Gigglebits: the latest update.

Dave writes ....

Just this from Rexie and Gordon as a gigglebits update has hit the network!

'hi all,
just a reminder that the latest up date of gigglebits is now out and it contains a great opportunity for you to playthe lottery 88 times a week for free!

cheers rexie'

Gigglebits

From the heart: A competition from Country Living Magazine.

Spotted by Kate ....

From Country Living Magazine ....

'Here is your chance to become a published author .... "When your heart is in the country". You may wish to submit a short story, a nature poem or a description of a rural experience or favorite landscape.'

.... more information link 1 and link 2. WARNING very large files - only click if you really want to look at them especially on dial up.

UPDATE - finally worked out how to link to the scanned images after several tries - sorry for delay - brains and his new scanner again.

Please note this material is reproduced from Country Life Magazine and remains they're copyright .... this material is reproduced here as a courtesty to CL Magazine .... are you from CL Magazine and wish us to remove this material? Mail us.

ThatGrrl.ca

Not sure where this one came from .... possibly Dave was mailed by the sites creator .... and the site has an esoteric layout that takes a little time to get used to .... but the material is dazzling.

Another one of those creative writing sites that you could happily spend half a day reading without scratching the surface letalone without digesting the material.

There is an astonishing collection of writers quotes which is something I have been looking for for quite a while; there is a hundred or so articles musing on the nature and technique of creative writing and here are about 50 mini exercises in creative writing many of which could be dashed off in 5 mins but many of which could be really quite absorbing.

Here is one exercise....

'Try this: Write about the path not taken. Start with something you did today but imagine your day if you had made a different choice. Just something as simple as missing your bus, taking the other route, wearing a different shirt, etc.'

....thats the sort of thing that gets the mind going.

Really, really super stuff. Cheers thatgrrl.

UPDATE While following a few links around found thatgrrl's blog and this self portrait. Pleased to meet you Laura a.k.a. thatgrrl :-).

Knees: The Rushmere Players.

Knees:
The Rushmere Players
Remember Gordon's piece on knees - from a few months ago. Well Tony is putting on a night of plays which will include Tony's dramatised version of Gordon's work. The details for the event are as follows....

The Rushmere Players present...a Night of Plays.
7th and 8th of October.
730pm Start.
Rushmere Hall School,
Lanark Road,
Ipswich.

£6/7 including a Fish and Chip dinner (or Sausage (or veggie burger)).
For details/bookings call Tony 01394 270484.

Friday 28th October quiz night at Ipswich Wanderers Football Club

Gordon says there is a quiz night at Ipswich Wanderers Football Club in Humber Doucy Lane on Friday 28th October at 7.30pm. Teams of five are welcomed at £2.00 a head. Prizes will be awarded at the end of the night… further details email Gordon at gordonmaton@hotmail.com

Undiscovered Authors - A competition in search of new literary talent

Spotted by Ken; and quite a substantial prize, from the UA website.......

Welcome to Undiscovered Authors, the UK’s first national competition aimed at seeking out new literary talent on any subject.

The top national prize is £10,000 and there are regional prizes of £1,000 per category.

The competition is divided into 16 regions in the UK and Ireland. A winner from each region will be entered into the national final to be announced in April 2006.

......for more info Undiscovered Authors - A competition in search of new literary talent

An eventful evening: Felixstowe Scribblers Report of (un)Meeting 4th October 2005

First our sincerest apologies as the meeting that was due to take place this evening started with a mini crisis because the keys had not been collected from the Library. A complete oversight caused by a string of events that had happened that day. Normally I would not mention names but I understood that Liliane was so very upset when she arrived at the Library to tell Alex the news that I felt it might be nice to ask if you see her between now and the next meeting to give her your support. Liliane has been an absolute diamond amongst us over the past months so please send out your good thoughts to her.

At this point I would like to mention that I have telephoned Liliane to make sure she is alright and told her not to worry as these things do happen from time to time. I think she was a little happier after our little chat.

Alex, another star in our midst, thought extremely quickly and within a short time had managed to come up with a solution. Somehow he persuaded mine host at the Grosvenor to allow the meeting to go ahead in their small room - even down to 'moving' some of the customers out to make way for the Scribblers.

After rounding up the Scribblers from outside the Library they tied to go ahead with the meeting. In Alex's words 'It was just frankly too noisy and with no other reasonable accommodation available at the Grosvenor we abandoned the meeting after Judy's reading at about 8.15pm. Too many people were unable to hear anything.'

Concensus of opinion was to not set a homework for next time but instead to run the whole meeting again including Judy's work once more, on the 18th October at the Library.

Apologies were received from Rachel who is spending some quality time down in Devon this week. Bill [B] has an important meeting to attend at the Lakeside Country Club, Frimley Green, Surrey, where they hold the World Darts Final - so treble nineteen, treble twenty, bullseye and out! Morag was unable to attend and so too was Christine. Understandably Jack and Caz were not able to be at the meeting whilst Dave sent his apologies as he is away celebrating his 36th wedding anniversary.

In attendance were Liliane, Alex, Dick, Judy, Kate, Scott, Lisa, Ann, Tony, Gordon, Les, Zoe, Peter Ken and new members along for the first time, Barry, Charlotte and Bill [S]


MUSICAL MAYHEM


Tony's evening of musical mayhem last Saturday drew several Scribblers together and whilst things were a little hazy the last report received was that Ken, Geoff, Belinda, Scott and Amy were the last to leave at around 2.00 am the next morning! A good time was apparently had by all. Not that Scott can remember!

THE ONLINE JOTTERS onlinejotters@yahoo.co.uk

Jan has forwarded a report and three-month plan for the Online Jotters that includes an exciting announcement to be made soon. Encouraging news is that 20 people have already signed up as members and with Jan emailing many writing circles in the country it could be that even more will be joining in the near future. Jan will release details at the appropriate times so watch out for emails from Yours Truly and keep an eye on the website for developments.

As far as the writer's tennis is concerned it started off with quite an impact but has slowed down. The idea behind this is for members to write their 50 words for the next part - or as many parts as you wish. The direction of the story depends on YOU, so if you think its moving in the wrong direction, your 50 words could alter its course and eventual outcome. So if you haven't tried yet, or would like another go, email your attempt to onlinejotters@yahoo.co.uk

There have been some emails that seem not to have been delivered to the address so if you have sent one in without any response please email scribblers@ntlworld.com We need to make certain nothing is going astray.

THE WEBSITE http://nar8or.blogspot.com

Have you all noticed the efforts that Alex has put into the website with all the interesting and some devastating local news which really adds to the site? Or the new Google search facility that makes 'surfing' the site or the web an absolute doddle? As reported last time, we have purchased a domain name and our new site is under construction. Once it is completed we will have a website second to none.

Any comments on the existing weblog or thoughts for the new website please inform Alex or Dave as soon as possible.

Incidentally at the last meeting it was reported that there had been 1,000 hits on the site since it began. Hits on the site are steadily increasing to approach the 1,400 mark. For the sake of interest many have been from the United States and Canada, from places like Ecuador, Brazil, Philippines, Hong Kong, Bangladesh as well as Estonia, Portugal, France and other European countries.

Our new website is now being constructed and this may be viewed at http://felixstowescribblers.com Click on the word test at the bottom right hand corner to enter the site. Anything you spot that is not quite right or would like to suggest then please email Alex at fswebsite@hotmail.co.uk

On the subject of websites and URL addresses, I have just received a communication from the Writer Resources editor at Dmoz
http://www.dmoz.org/Arts/Writers_Resources/ complaining that Felixstowe Scribblers had three URL websites listed there - none of them our official weblog. These emanate from a different source and are causing some problems with our own site. I have replied and ensured that the correct URL is listed and suffice to say this was quickly amended.


JACK and CAZ

The latest news is that Jack has to go into Great Ormond Street hospital on 12th October for an operation. All the Scribblers will want to wish Jack all the very best and will be thinking of him and his parents, Caz and Karl.

THE NEXT HOMEWORK

Remains the same as last time and will be aired properly at our next meeting. So if you haven't already done homework on the garden table and chairs [see the website for the pic], now is your chance to do so. A maximum of 500 words on the subject please.

Both Judy and Les will still have their opportunity for the 1,500 word open themed topics again, with Judy able to read hers again for the benefit of all members.

Mind you, if you have all done this homework assignment, please remember that out meeting on 1st November will have a spooky Halloween theme so now's your chance to spend a little extra time compiling something to scare the wits out of the rest of us!

Our next Felixstowe Scribblers meeting is in two weeks time on Tuesday 18th October at the usual 7.30pm start time at the Felixstowe Library.


Until then,


Keep Scribbling!

WOODBRIDGE LIBRARY: Local author, Ruth Dugdall, talks about her newly published novel, THE JAMES VERSION

MEET THE AUTHOR

Book signing and talk by local author


Sunday October 16th 2.30 – 3.30

WOODBRIDGE LIBRARY


Local author, Ruth Dugdall, talks about her newly published novel,

THE JAMES VERSION

William Corder was hung for the murder of Maria Marten in Polstead, Suffolk, in a case that became known as the infamous Red Barn murder.
But was he really guilty of the crime?

Using court transcripts and the knowledge gained from years of working with criminals, Ruth Dugdall has pieced together a fictional version of events seen from the points of view of Maria’s stepmother, and the new and inexperienced rector of Polstead.

This is a FREE event but booking is advisable
See library staff or phone 01394 625095 for details

The James Version by R.E Dugdall

ISBN 1898030146 Rhapsody 2005 £6.99 at all good book shops.

The next meeting Tuesday 18th October....this time at the Library.

Thanks to all for their patience and understanding with the abortive meeting tonight .... as we all agreed we will try again with the meeting at the Library at 730pm on the 18th Ocober .... thanks so much for all making the effort epecially the three new members .... sorry we only got a part of a meeting.

Hello Perthlings: Light Fantastic, Perth Concert Hall.

From 'The Times'.....

WHEN villagers saw strange, unexplained lights far off in the distance last weekend they started to call police in their dozens, fearful that UFOs had arrived. The spectacular display over Perth provoked panic 30 miles away in the Fife villages of Lochgelly and Kinglassie where locals watched intricate beams and patterns dance through the night sky.

In fact there was a much more down to earth explanation for the panic — the lights were part of a show to mark the local launch of Perth’s new £20 million concert hall. Clear atmospheric conditions meant that the searchlight performance, created by the artist Simon Wilkinson, could be seen for miles.

There is, however, something of the spaceship about the Fair City’s dramatic glass and copper landmark, which has its gala opening concert tonight.

Read more of the Times Article....


From the ald website.....

'Light Fantastic was an 8 night long search light installation commisioned by Horsecross to mark the opening of the new Perth Concert Hall. 10 search lights were arranged around the rooftop of the new building, and ran a programmed show of movements and colour changes, which varied to reflect the events occuring in the concert hall that night.

The display was visible from nearly 30 miles away, and was widely reported in the Scottish press, with articles and/or images appearing in The Scotsman, Scotland on Sunday, The Times, The Sun ect, ect'

Read more and see the photogallery at the Association of Lighting Designers website.


And what is this to all to do with Suffolk and the Scribblers - well Ill be honest not much - Simon Wilkinson is my Sisters' Boyfriend and Im just been blown away by all this and thought it would be of interest to some of you. Its been great hearing all the gossip about this - Simon had to get Air Traffic Control to close part of Scotlands Airspace to get permision to test the installation. Feel a bit guilty in a way popping it up here - but thought about it all day and thought youd all enjoy the dazzling photograhps.

UPDATE 4.10.05 Pics may be unavailable for a while - Im on my way out too meeting so Ill look into it when I get back in. SORRY :-)

UPDATE 7.10.05 Pics seem to be back - wonder what happened there?

Homework for the 4th October.

Brains here finally managed to work out how to install his superdooper new scanner - thanks for your great software HP (ironic) - and here is the much delayed scan of the picture Belinda left with us for the next homework. I think Ill skip writing 500 words on the subject of hardware installation.

Sorry to those of you who have been kept waiting - and thanks to Margareta for prompting me to get it done.

publish-this.com - The Site where Authors and Publishers Meet

From the Publish This website.....

'We want to give you the opportunity to get your work in front of the people that matter. We are here to help Authors address their Submissions to Publishers and Literary Agents in a secure environment. You can Sign Up and Submit for Free.'

For more information go to publish-this.com :: The Site where Authors and Publishers Meet.

UEA Creative Writing moves from Belstead House to the library.

'Yours Truly' has spotted and writes the following.....

You asked for anything connected to writing in Suffolk?

Checking out http://www.uea.ac.uk/ earlier I noted Creative Writing is no longer held at Belstead House but at the library.


DIPLOMA - LEVEL 3

Creative Writing 60 credits

Students applying for the Diploma in Creative Writing should have successfully completed at least 10 credits of a Continuing Education introductory level Creative Writing course, or equivalent. Applicants are also asked to include a sample of recent writing (approximately 500 words) and a brief CV giving details of any publications etc.

An approach to creative writing for people who have some experience of writing or of studying literature. It provides a disciplined structure for you to develop and apply your understanding of your abilities as a creative writer in a responsive environment. It will be helpful for those who are developing professional and/or academic careers.

Throughout the one year course there will be opportunities for practising skills and for discussion and critical debate in writing and orally, under supervision by the course director and other experienced tutors and writers. Feedback on written work is given by tutors and by members of the group.

The Diploma concentrates on the writing of poetry and fiction. There is also some focus on the skills of critical appreciation of published poetry and fiction and on presentation skills. The assessment is based on two elements; a journal and a portfolio of writing including a reflective self-evaluation and future work plan.

Previous groups have produced an anthology of writing based on a selection of course work. Sessions with visiting writers will be arranged. A successful and popular component has been a residential weekend school, and there will be one such weekend during the course. It is used specifically for individual tutorials and intensive writing exercises, together with the opportunity to work with one or two guest writers.

The course fee does not include the cost of the residential weekend (approx. £80) and production of an optional anthology.

Venue: Ipswich Library

Day/Time: Thursdays 7-9pm

Start Date: 6 October

End Date end June 06

Course Director: Ian Nettleton

Fee: £590

General enquiries mail: cont.ed@uea.ac.uk
Website enquiries mail: j.handley@uea.ac.uk

if ever you're in the area

How did I miss this one - I guess thats what happens when you dont have a TV.

From their website....

'"If Ever You're in the Area" is an art project by Bettina Furnee, relating to fear of invasion and rituals of commemoration, coinciding with the 60th anniversary of the end of the second world war in 2005. The project is carried out in collaboration with writers Tony Mitton and Simon Frazer. '

Facinating stuff - and keys in nicely with the Scribbler's various interests in Erosion and the changing landscape around us.

This is the live image from their webcam - refreshes every 15 mins.



To visit the facinating if ever you're in the area website.

Do you know information or content that would help other readers of the Felixstowe Scribblers Weblog?...

You can help.....do you know information or content that would help other readers of the Felixstowe Scribblers Weblog?...mail us at fswebsite@hotmail.co.uk with your comments, additions and suggestions.

I guess we are interested in anything to do with either writing or life in Felixstowe or Suffolk.