Around 2021, Library Staff and the Peninsula Players out of Ilwaco came together to present a program with poetry and prose, called Friends with Words, to a virtual audience via Zoom during the Covid pandemic. When things opened back up, most folks went back to their regular in-person events, but a few others remained and continued sharing.
Flash forward to today; FWW still happens monthly, although with a slightly different format and with a different core group. Over the years I have been privileged to meet and hear from many aspiring, dabbling, and seasoned authors. Attendees share their own creations, some asking for feedback some asking for none. Discussions have revolved around many topics, some of my favorite include getting published, history of words, and the art of creating the 100-word story. We have also explored the TRL catalog looking at different genres from Steampunk to Horror to Western.
I am fascinated by the stories that are shared - can you imagine the skill required to write a 100-word story? With permission, one of the authors who was recently featured in the in North Coast Squid, has graciously allowed me to share one of her stories with you:
#95—Incandescence by VE Hayes {RC:Zashlee}
Zashlee wanted more money than her stupid summer internship provided. She
supplemented by posting content daily, getting mad hits on artifacts the public couldn’t see.
Then she had an idea. She waited for everyone to go home, then snuck into The Vault.
Unable to decipher the writing, but not really caring, she opened a box of carved stone
figures. Snap, flash. She took a few pictures, then put everything back, and ran straight off to the club.
In the dark, the trapped souls of the demons, now released by the bright flashes of god-
like light, stood and began to stretch.
*end*
What makes this program truly special is how it brings people together, no matter the miles between them. It offers an inclusive space where even those who are homebound or unable to attend in person can connect, share, and be part of a creative community.
Friends with Words is presented on Fourth Thursdays at 7pm. With the upcoming holidays the next meeting is scheduled for 11/20. If you’re interested in joining, please send an email to receive a zoom link for the next program. We look forward to meeting you!
