Retirement – Written by Dom Conlon

Two old people are chatting in the bathroom whilst outside the sun throws itself uselessly at the net curtains. “Why can’t you leave me to pee in peace?” “I’m just talking. What’s wrong with talking?” “I need to pee. Can’t you give me a moment just to finish off? It always takes longer with you [...]

Read Full Post »

Recipe for Burnt Seaweed – Written by James Roome

Perhaps I can cook it, he thought. He picked it up and held it in his hand. Wet and limp. Suspended and swaying in the ebb and flow of underwater currents it had been so beautiful; now it lay glistening alongside all the other dregs of ocean life, waiting for the sea. Holding the seaweed, [...]

Read Full Post »

An Accident Waiting to Happen – Written by Sarah-Clare Conlon

“I said it was an accident waiting to happen.” The pair were stood together, on the doorstep, in the street, next to the road. It was funny that the doorstep – threshold to the homestead; scene of family life, gossip and drudgery – still sat there, sturdy as ever, slightly pock-marked but largely polished. “I [...]

Read Full Post »

Cigarettes – Written by Percy Herbert

“Get in”, he said. It was dark and wet. Cold. He had the heater on full and smoked constantly, talked on the phone while he drove. He shouted a lot. I didn’t know where we were going. I get driven around a lot but I never actually do the driving. I’m too young.  “I’ll split it with you, Kenny,” he [...]

Read Full Post »