Blaise's Page

Lake Cullulleraine Writers’ Camp

This was my first writers’ camp and I must say that I was very impressed with the creative pursuits of these kids. The idea of making books is a new one to the camp but it seems that most participants were eager to try it. I was also very chuffed to be so easily accepted by everyone.

As always, when we surrender ourselves to the written word, we are surprised at what might eventuate. Sometimes it’s a good surprise and other times it can be painful or left of field.

One of my poems from Barry’s workshop was one of those ‘left of field’ writing experiences:

My Family (the truth)

When I was a kid
I lived with my mum, two brothers and a sister
My dad was long gone
Cos mum kicked him out
I don’t remember missing my dad
Cos I didn’t really know him
And I was busy being a kid anyway

My sister’s five years older
So she was always just bossy
I hung around with my two little brothers
Climbing trees and pulling wings off flies
They’re called ‘walks’ when you do that

Now, I’m a mum with two high school boys
And I’m glad they know their dad
Better than my dad
Who never came through with a single promise