Tag: storytelling

Orion

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Once upon a time, nestled deep within a magical forest, there lived a magnificent wolf named Orion. He possessed a sleek, silver coat that shimmered under the moonlight, and his piercing blue eyes sparkled like the stars in the night sky. But despite his extraordinary appearance, Orion carried a secret burden; he could not shed a single tear. While the other creatures of the forest revelled in the beauty of their emotions, Orion felt trapped within himself. His inability to cry made him an outcast, as his fellow wolves and woodland friends couldn’t understand his emotional plight. They believed tears to be a sign of vulnerability, but Orion yearned to experience the emotional release that tears could bring.

One day, as Orion wandered through a sunlit glade, he stumbled upon a wise old owl perched atop a moss-covered branch. The owl, Athena, possessed ancient wisdom and keen insight into matters of the heart. Sensing Orion’s sadness, she invited him to share his story. With a heavy heart, Orion poured out his tale of woe to Athena. He expressed his longing to cry, to release the emotions locked within him, and to feel a connection with his kindred spirits. Moved by his plight, Athena offered her guidance.

“Dear Orion,” Athena began, “the ability to cry goes beyond mere tears. It is the language of the heart, a gateway to understanding and compassion. But to embrace this gift, you must first uncover the source of your emotions.”

Together, Orion and Athena embarked on a quest to discover the key to unlocking Orion’s tears. They wandered through enchanted forests, climbed towering mountains, and crossed treacherous rivers. Along the way, they encountered various animals who shared their own stories of sorrow and joy, love and loss. As the journey unfolded, Orion began to understand that emotions were not a sign of weakness but rather an expression of his true self. He discovered that crying was not solely reserved for sadness but could also be a manifestation of happiness, empathy, and gratitude. Finally, deep within the heart of the forest, Orion faced his ultimate challenge, a mystical waterfall known as the “Tears of the Ancients.” It was said that those who stood before it with pure intentions would have their emotions released, allowing their tears to flow freely.

With trembling paws, Orion approached the waterfall. He called upon every emotion buried within him, allowing them to surge through his being. As his heart overflowed with a kaleidoscope of feelings, a single tear welled up in his eye, shimmering like a dewdrop. And then, with a sense of liberation, the tear trickled down Orion’s snout, splashing into the sacred waters below. In that instant, the floodgates burst open, and tears streamed down his face like a gentle rain, cleansing his soul and connecting him to the world around him. Word of Orion’s tearful transformation spread throughout the forest, and the animals rejoiced.

They recognized that emotions were not something to be feared but to be embraced and shared. Orion became a symbol of courage, teaching others to honour their feelings without shame. From that day forward, Orion’s tears became a gift, a reminder that expressing emotions is an essential part of the human experience. He roamed the forest, weaving tales of empathy and compassion, comforting those in need, and spreading the message that every tear carried within it the power to heal and unite. Children from far and wide would gather around Orion, eager to hear his stories and learn from his wisdom. They discovered that crying was not a sign of weakness but a testament to the strength and depth of their hearts.

Orion became a beloved character loved by many, guiding young ones through their own emotional journeys and encouraging them to embrace their feelings with open arms. As the forest flourished with newfound compassion and understanding, a remarkable transformation took place within Orion. With each tear shed, his heart grew lighter, and a radiant joy replaced the burden he had carried for so long. His once solitary existence transformed into a life filled with connection and meaning.

And so, the story of the wolf who could not cry, Orion, became a legend in the magical forest. It served as a reminder to all that emotions are a precious part of being alive, and that through embracing and expressing them, one can find solace, strength, and a profound sense of belonging to all that is and will ever be.

The School of Unrealistic Hopefulness

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This short story is taken from -Tales from Under the Falling Leaves (Short Stories for Long Nights) with Uncle Laz.

Once upon a time, in a land veiled in whimsy and wonder, there stood a peculiar institution known as the School of Unrealistic Hopefulness. Nestled amidst rolling hills and adorned with vibrant flowers, this school was unlike any other. Its purpose was to cultivate and nurture the boundless dreams and aspirations of young hearts, teaching them to embrace the power of hope and imagination. The school’s esteemed headmaster, Professor Ambrose, was a tall and sprightly man with a twinkle in his eyes. He firmly believed that ordinary dreams could evolve into extraordinary realities. Under his guidance, the students were encouraged to dream big, to dare to imagine the seemingly impossible.

At the School of Unrealistic Hopefulness, every day was a new adventure. The students, an eclectic mix of wide-eyed dreamers, were eager to embark on their journey of discovery. Each morning, they would gather in the enchanting walled courtyard garden, where whispers of inspiration swirled through the air. The first lesson of the day was taught by Professor Amelia, a kind-hearted soul with a penchant for creativity. She taught the students to paint their dreams upon the canvas of the world. With brushes in hand and colours ablaze, the young dreamers would bring their fantasies to life, creating a tapestry of vibrant possibilities.

Next came Professor Felix, an eccentric inventor who believed that the boundaries of reality were meant to be shattered. In his workshop, the students tinkered with gears, wires, and various contraptions. They crafted flying machines, time-travelling devices, and teleportation gadgets, fuelled by their unwavering belief in the extraordinary.

Then, there was Professor Celeste, a wise scholar who revelled in the mysteries of the universe. She guided the students through celestial journeys, teaching them about the stars, planets, and galaxies. Under her tutelage, they learned to see beyond the confines of Earth and dream of exploring distant worlds.

Throughout the day, the students were immersed in an atmosphere of wonder and possibility. They delved into stories of mythical creatures, composed symphonies of hope, and danced to the rhythm of their dreams. The school’s corridors echoed with laughter as friendships were forged and aspirations intertwined. However, the School of Unrealistic Hopefulness was not without its challenges. Doubt occasionally crept into the hearts of the students, threatening to dampen their spirits. But Professor Ambrose, with his unwavering optimism, reminded them that every setback was an opportunity for growth. He taught them to embrace failure as a stepping stone toward success.

As time passed, the students of the School of Unrealistic Hopefulness grew in both wisdom and courage. They carried their dreams like beacons, lighting a path toward a future brimming with possibilities. Some became renowned artists, their works inspiring generations. Others pioneered scientific breakthroughs that defied logic. And a few ventured into uncharted territories, embracing the unknown with open arms. Years later, a former student of the school, now a successful entrepreneur, stood before a crowd of aspiring dreamers. With a twinkle in their eye and an infectious smile, they shared their journey from the School of Unrealistic Hopefulness to the realm of tangible achievements. Their story ignited a spark in the hearts of those who listened, reminding them that dreams, no matter how fantastical, could indeed become reality.

And so, the School of Unrealistic Hopefulness continued to thrive and flourish, its legacy carried forward by new generations of dreamers. The school became a beacon of inspiration, drawing students from far and wide who sought to nurture their imaginative spirits and challenge the limits of what was deemed possible. Over time, the graduates of the School of Unrealistic Hopefulness formed a vibrant network of visionaries united by their shared experiences and unwavering belief in the power of dreams. They collaborated on ambitious projects, pushing the boundaries of innovation in art, science, and technology. Their collective efforts brought about astonishing advancements that transformed the world in ways no one could have imagined. The impact of the School of Unrealistic Hopefulness extended far beyond its enchanting campus.

Its alumni scattered across the globe, spreading the seeds of hope and inspiration wherever they went. They became advocates for change, inspiring others to embrace their own aspirations and pursue their wildest dreams. The School of Unrealistic Hopefulness became a symbol of resilience and determination, reminding society that it is through audacious dreams and unwavering optimism that true progress is achieved. Its name echoed through the annals of history, forever etched in the hearts of those who dared to dream. In the end, the School of Unrealistic Hopefulness stood as a testament to the extraordinary power of human imagination. It taught its students that while the world may present challenges and obstacles, it is through hope, courage, and a refusal to accept limitations that dreams are transformed into reality. And so, dear reader, let the story of the School of Unrealistic Hopefulness inspire you to embrace your own dreams, no matter how grand or unconventional they may seem. For within the realm of imagination lies the key to unlocking a future of endless possibilities.

Images by Gill Brooks http://www.gillsplace.com

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Elara the Wandering Storyteller

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Once upon a time, a wandering storyteller named Elara lived in a land where the mountains kissed the sky and rivers sang gentle lullabies. With a heart full of dreams and a satchel overflowing with tales, she roamed from village to village, gathering experiences and sharing the rich tapestry of her stories. Elara’s journey began in a small village nestled between lush green hills. She discovered her love for storytelling there as she listened to the elders weave their narratives by the flickering firelight. Inspired, she decided to embark on a quest to collect stories from every corner of the realm.

She encountered many characters as she travelled: a wise old woman who spoke to the stars, a brave knight searching for his lost honour, and a mischievous fox who knew all the forest secrets. Each encounter enriched her collection, adding wisdom and wonder to her repertoire. While resting under a towering oak tree one day, Elara met a curious young girl named Lila. With sparkling eyes, Lila asked,

“What makes a story truly magical?”

Elara smiled, her heart warming at the question, and replied,

“A story becomes magical when it is shared with an open heart. It lives in the listener’s imagination, transforming with each telling.”

Intrigued, Lila asked if she could join Elara on her journey. The storyteller welcomed her with open arms, and together, they travelled through bustling markets, serene meadows, and enchanted forests, sharing tales that made people laugh, cry, and dream. As their bond grew, so did their understanding of the world. They learned that stories could heal wounds, bridge divides and ignite hope. In a village plagued by despair, Elara and Lila told tales of courage and resilience, reminding the villagers of their strength. Slowly, the village transformed as laughter replaced sorrow and dreams rekindled.

One evening, as the sun dipped below the horizon, Elara and Lila found themselves at the edge of a shimmering lake. The water mirrored the colours of the sky, creating a breathtaking canvas. There, Elara shared her most cherished story—a tale of a phoenix that rose from its ashes, symbolizing rebirth and renewal. As she spoke, the flames of the campfire danced in rhythm with her words, and Lila felt a warmth inside her. She realized that storytelling was not just about sharing tales; it was about connecting souls, sparking imagination, and celebrating the beauty of life itself.

Years passed, and Elara became a legend in her own right, known far and wide as the wandering storyteller. But she never forgot the girl who had travelled with her, for Lila had grown into a gifted storyteller. Inspired by Elara, she took up the mantle, continuing the journey, weaving her own stories into the fabric of the world. And so, the legacy of the wandering storyteller lived on, a reminder that every tale told ignites a spark of magic, connecting hearts across time and space. 

2023 YEAR IN FOCUS

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Twelve months of non-stop work from beginning to end is the only way I can describe the last year if I am being honest with myself. Going into January, research for my new book ‘Walls Have Ears’ – The Story of Craig y Nos Castle began in earnest. That is behind me now, with over forty actual interviews conducted in partnership with folk who are related in some way to the history of the castle, from family connections with Captain Rice Powell Davies, and Morgan Morgan, to relatives of those who worked for them and/or Adelina Patti, in some capacity. The interviews are full of facts and stories all to be incorporated in the book. I hit on the idea of channeling and recording the stories of the actual ghosts and spirits still haunting Craig y Nos which led to twelve months of weekly psychic research sessions. Now with over one hundred and fifty video recordings, the stories can be included in the book. Writing the story in the first person as a chunk of rock mined from the Cribarth and sunk in the foundations enables me to say all within the title, ‘Walls Have Ears’.

The book is well underway and should be completed early in 2024. I decided to create two volumes, 1840-1919 and 1920-1980, so Books One and Two. There are many people to thank for information and stories and they will be credited in the book. In the meantime, I would like to thank most sincerely, Debbie Eve, who filtered people to me for information and interviews, Martin Gover, for permission to conduct my psychic research and spend time in places within Craig y Nos, not usually frequented by the public, Paul Brandon, as genealogist, and Jeremy Marsh (Castle Historian) without whom my weekly sessions would have been impossible. I am singularly grateful to Jeremy who painstakingly recorded every session in writing to aid clarity and accompany the video tapes. The cream on the cake for this fascinatingly interesting project came in November, when John Rolls of Showboat Television, approached us with a request to create a television series of our work. Filming has begun and we look forward to next year when it will be screened.

January also saw me severing links with my American publisher, Words Matter Publishing. Like many authors who have grievances with their publishers, there were decisions to make. I will be forever grateful to Tammy Koelling of WMP for selecting the first volume of my Crach Ffinnant series as the grand winner in the writing competition in 2018, and for publishing the following volumes, Rise of the Dragon and Ravens and Dragons. However, being restricted to one book per year held me back and slowed down my creative flow. So in February, I revised my contracts and began a solo journey. In March I launched ‘Swift Arrow Books Limited’ and created the site and online shop at https://www.swiftarrowbooksltd.co.uk. All of my books were transferred to my own publishing company and the fourth volume of Crach Ffinnant, ‘Justice Prevails’ was published and launched.

I have continued to facilitate a weekly creative writing group at Ystradgynlais Library and it was with great delight I published their first anthology of collected stories ‘500 WORDS’, in May under my own imprint, ‘Swift Arrow Books’. The group has grown from strength to strength participating in numerous community events, and it is with particular pride I see the partnership in joint work with the Josef Herman Foundation developing. The group has been invited to present a paper at a conference at Cardiff University on the topic of Storytelling and Mental Health. Though the conference is cancelled for this year, it has been rescheduled for June 2024. My greatest delight is seeing the membership/group develop into a formal community group with chairperson, Jo Paine and appropriate officers. Community research has been achieved in terms of assessing the need for creative writing and a writing competition has produced two winners in the adult and children’s categories. 2024 welcomes the group’s application for lottery funding and further developments including the publication of the second anthology of collected works – 500 WORDS.

Perhaps I may have developed hypergraphia, although the creativity is not to be snubbed. In May, I began working with a new illustrator, Gill Brooks. To say we have been productive is an understatement. Gill like me is clearly a workaholic, we enjoy our craft and there is nothing worse than being slowed down by others. This is not the case at all and our partnership has produced the following titles since May.

Hermit and the Dog Wolf; On the Road with Uncle Laz – Short Stories for Long Journeys; Around the Fire with Uncle Laz – Short Stories for Long Nights; Under the Leaves with Uncle Laz – Short Stories for Autumn Nights; Kingdom of the Trees; Sparkle the Unicorn and Grublebelly the Ogre; The Adventures of Beckett, Books 1,2 and 3; The Wizard Who Chased Time; The Devotees; Haunting Dreams – Nine Ghost Stories for Insomniacs; The Dragons Who Saved the World; The Unyielding Flame – Parable of a Collier; and Dark Tales from the Outback. 

Thus a somewhat prolific partnership with sixteen titles between us, I am certain cannot be denied. Some of the publications are available in hardback as limited editions as well as paperback. I look forward to whatever Gill and I are destined to achieve together creatively next year.

My weekly radio programme, Book at Bedtime – Tales from Wales is now enjoying its third year with Oystermouth Radio. This year saw Crach Ffinnant – Ravens and Dragons coming to an end and volume four, Crach Ffinnant – Justice Prevails beginning. The fourth series is now a longer programme and includes a guest author each week in addition to my storytelling. It is proving popular with listeners, and we began with members of the Ystradgynlais Creative Writing Group sharing their stories enabling them to both experience narrating and appearing on a live radio show. So in reality these new writers have seen their stories come into print and be heard on radio. Various authors of acclaim have appeared on the programme with many more to come next year. This has been a challenge to me and improved my editing and interview skills (I hope). But I do get a lot of fun from writing and presenting this series and love working with Grant Eden, my producer.

In summary, I am most grateful to those readers who enjoy my storytelling, Oystermouth Radio and Grant Eden, the Ystradgynlais Library Management team, and Powys County Council, Gill Brooks – Illustrator, Debbie Eve my partner and co-conspirator, and my many friends and colleagues across social media for your support and love. In the words of one of my guides, Dr. Robert, I will end with

CHANGE IS EVER CONSTANT

Merry Xmas and Happy New Year