Sunday 22 February 2009

Blowing my own small trumpet

Alright. I know that, in the greater scheme of things, it's not War and Peace. Nor is it the start of a great literary career. But it gives me a small degree of satisfaction nevertheless.

I have always loved the Victorian ghost story; particularly those of M.R. James. They always seem to pop up on UK television around Christmas, and it was a good few years ago that I decided to pen my own nod to the genre. And what did I do with it? I put it in a box and forgot about it.

Then, last year, at my stepson's wedding in Cyprus, I got chatting to the editor of an 'Ex-Pat' magazine. She was looking for something suitable for Christmas; I mentioned the ghost story; and the rest is history.

I've had odds and ends published in the past, but this is my first short story in print. And I've got to say it's given me a little satisfaction. So I'm sure you'll excuse me, just this once, for blowing my own little trumpet.

Oh, and you can read it here, by the way!

21 comments:

Everyday Goddess said...

How exciting! This is great news, I am very happy for you. I'll download it right away.

My word verification is: bless !!

HOW awesome is that?

Chris Hale said...

Bless? Cor, strike a light, lady! That is decidedly odd!

Madame DeFarge said...

Please don't tell me that there's a pub called the Dun Cow where you live now. Congrats on being published. I don't think that my school magazine counts in comparison.

Well done!

punk in writing said...

Awesome! Being published is an awesome feeling.

Raph G. Neckmann said...

I'm going to download it now, and read it when Maureen is in the room with me, in case I get scared!

Tess Kincaid said...

Wow, Chris, what a touching, haunting and perfect story for Christmas!! Many congratulations!!

I downloaded it and am taking it back to the manor with me. Thank you!

Chris Hale said...

MDF - No, there isn't a Dun Cow Inn; my local is 'The Old Boot'!

Punky - Thanks. I am a little pleased.

Raph - Just make sure the lights are all turned on and you'll be alright.

Willow - Thank you. I hope you enjoy it.

Unknown said...

Hi Chris,

Well done! I've just finished reading and thoroughly enjoyed it, except for feeling disappointed for George! I also loved the "touch of sciatica"!!

Those of us who read your blog, however, shouldn't find any surprise in your new status.

Chris Hale said...

Thanks Derrick.

One thing I do know about is sciatica! Look, I even know how to spell it and everything!

Perhaps I should start writing a few rip-roaring sea stories now...

Unknown said...

And why not Chris? But mind when you're on the poop deck!

Chris Hale said...

I'm pretty sure I've been there before, shiver me timbers and avast, sa ha!

SIMONCOLGANPHOTOGRAPHY said...

Congrats Mr H. A well deserved start to many more I hope. If it all goes pair-shaped you could always sell you magic hat!!!!

SweetPeaSurry said...

Great news and congrats!!!

Anonymous said...

A well deserved blow of your little trumpet my dear chap. What a great tale and a good bit of writing. So nice to see one's name in print.

You ought to take heart from this and be encouraged to do a bit more. You certainly have the talent and perhaps once the boxes have been sorted, you might find a bit of time.

Chris Hale said...

Simon - Thanks! But I could never sell my magic hat, any more than you could sell your haunted one.

SweetPeaSurry - Thank you very much.

Rob - Thanks. Yes, I do hope to do some more writing once we're sorted here. Will keep you posted!

Tom Atkins said...

Blow away! And congratulations. You have to savor such landmarks!

Chris Hale said...

Thanks Tom. I think this is your first visit to England's smallest county. You are most welcome! Do call in again soon.

Raph G. Neckmann said...

Really enjoyed the story, Chris - I printed it off and had been waiting for a time when I could sit in comfort to read it!

I'm looking forward to reading many more of your stories ...

Chris Hale said...

Thanks Raph.

I'll have to get scribbling when I have a bit of spare time!

Debby said...

Oooh. I had figured that his poor wife was in danger. What a twist at the end.

My word verification is reepr. How grim.

Chris Hale said...

Debby - how spooky is that?

My verifier is wastryin; something the teachers always said bout me at school!