“I would also suggest that any aspiring writer begin with short stories. These days, I meet far too many young writers who try to start off with a novel right off, or a trilogy, or even a nine-book series. That’s like starting in at rock climbing by tackling Mt. Everest. Short stories help you learn your craft.” – George R.R. Martin

Since 2012, I have dabbled in the art of short stories. They are an interesting challenge, born with a single motive, a central mood, and driven by the power of suggestion, more than resolution.

I find short stories are a brilliant way to grow and flex one’s writing talents; a chance to expand on your skill with words by compacting them; an opportunity to test a different POV than you normally use, or a genre that you have yet to take root in.

A few months ago, I entered another one of my short stories into an Australian writing competition, which announced the winning entry last month. While mine did not come out as the top winner, it was chosen, alongside nine other stories (including the winner) to be a part of an anthology celebrating the Top 10 stories. Any recognition I receive for my works, I find myself humbled and honoured (and just a little bit giddy with delight), as I know there are usually hundreds of entries submitted into such contents, and each and every entry was born from the heart and soul of a fellow writer; and who knows how many hours of tears or frustrations they went through to complete it.

I received a copy of the anthology, and savoured the contents, which included my name and story alongside other amazing writers. It truly is a privilege!

My short story in an anthology! Woot!

And since the anthology is a comp publication, the rights of my story remain with me; which means I can re-post it wherever I wish. And for anyone interested in reading it, I have posted it here on the website, alongside my other short stories.

So, for those who are curious as to what convinced the judges to place my work in the Top 10 short stories of the 2016 TVWF Competition, I present you with:

This Cruel and Beautiful World.

I hope you enjoy it! 🙂