Several weeks ago, Martin Thomasson ran an excellent writing session for Phoenix writers, exploring cooperative writing. This proved a lively and most productive session, and we enjoyed Martin’ s talk about the way he co-wrote an award winning play with Les Smith.
Martin began the story below and we were free to continue/alter as we felt fit. Martin’s opening involved a middle aged son trying on his mother’s clothes after she has died and her funeral has taken place. Martin ended the piece with the sound of the doorbell and John opening the dooor without remembering how he is dressed….
‘’Good afternoon’’ said a tall woman in spectacles. ‘’Don’t worry about Pluto. He’s always most affectionate.’’
‘’Pluto?’’ Said John struggling with his new voice.
‘’After the planet. That’s where he comes from.’’
By the side of the woman sat a huge husky with very blue eyes and very large paws.
‘’Oh ‘’’said John still sticking to monosyllables.
I’m joking’’ said the woman and held out her hand. “Carrie Andersen from Ariadne Publishing. I’m here to interview Professor Platt about her new book. It’s caused quite a stir.’’ She patted Pluto on his head.
Pluto ignored her and stared at John, daring him to risk a sudden movement.
Go on. Make my day, punk.
‘Oh ‘’said John. ‘’That’s most unfortunate. I…’’
Pluto eyes darkened and he stood up. His eyes never left John’s face.
John puckered his lips. And stopped speaking. His pantyhose suddenly felt rather warm.‘’We tried calling Cora’’ but her phone wasn’t receiving calls.
‘’No’’ replied John thinking of his mother’s favourite carnelia.
“But you see our readers are desperate to find out what happens to Harriet. We positively loathe Cora….. Oliver Sorrel is wonderful of course. Such a tormented soul’’ Cora gazed thoughtfully into space.
‘’Mmm’’ said John as Pluto nudged forward and head-butted him in the groin.
‘’Apologies. Pluto is always doing that. Good job you’re female’’.
‘’Yes’’ said John, moistening his lips.‘’We’re staying at The Craven Heifer. Two nights. They’ve been very accommodating about Pluto. ‘’
A very engaging voice with healing comedy in the sadness, and a talent for the physical – ‘His pantyhose suddenly felt rather warm.’ – a phrase that will long stick in my mind! Your enjoyment in responding to the scenario really comes through!