Stories Rising.

Across the world right now the big story in politics is that Gordon Brown is going to the G8 to advise us all to throw away less food wastage. Trust they remember that as they tuck into the caviar and grand banquet this evening. Meanwhile Budweiser has launched a phone for hardened drinkers and party animals; really helpful contribution this to issues surrounding addiction! Finally North Korea is in from the cold; an invite is on its way to the Beijing Olympics and oh yes, Obama has a friend on facebook.

Stories rising across the globe. Today, this moment, right now. Am I the only one or has anyone else found that different cities and nations carry a particular flavour in the stories they tell? Marseille is full of drug running and the exploits of a global port. Rome is all about intrigue and the deep and dark dealings that go beyond the confession booth. The stories of China are short and sharp, lest someone be listening in over your shoulder. What about San Fransisco? Anyone hearing anything from that western gateway right on the edge of the western world? Stories influenced by the place, and the people who live there.

So what’s yours? Loved  the comment from a guy called Tim on the Stories form the Street page when he questioned who has the authentic voice of his city. Is it the sports heroes, the politicians, the media, the rich, or could it be you and I?

How about this summer we run a series on short stories from afar. Whether it be Cleethorpes or Casablanca you go to for your holiday, how about sending in your take on the place that you live in or go travelling to. The only criteria is that it must be under 400 words and it must be about people and place; a village, town city or nation. Have a go! Email it to me at stephenlowton@googlemail.com and I will post it.

Okay anyone reading this, I’m off to try and network the future president of the United States on facebook. Thought he might have a story ot two!