Unveiling the Winners of the RTÉ Short Story Competition 2025: A Celebration of Domestic Tensions and New Beginnings
In a captivating announcement, the RTÉ Short Story Competition 2025, honoring the renowned Francis MacManus, has revealed its winning tale. The story, titled "Witness," penned by Lynda McCarthy, has been described as a "subtle, sensitive, and quietly powerful" exploration of domestic dynamics.
The winner was unveiled live on RTÉ Radio 1's Arena, hosted by Rick O'Shea, in an event held at the Pavillion Theatre, Dun Laoghaire. This special occasion celebrated the art of storytelling and the power it holds to illuminate the human experience.
Lynda McCarthy, a journalist from Cork now residing in County Waterford with her family, received a well-deserved €5,000 for her winning entry. What's remarkable is that this is her first foray into the world of fiction publication. In her own words, she wanted to delve into the psyche of a character who feels invisible within her own home, asking profound questions: "What would it take for her to transform her circumstances? What would it mean for her to have someone bear witness to her treatment?"
But here's where it gets controversial... The second prize went to Angela Finn's "A Spectrum of Sorrow," while Ian Feighery's "Auntie and Anto and Ivy and Ava" took third place. Both stories, along with the seven runners-up, showcase the diverse range of talent and themes explored in this year's competition.
And this is the part most people miss... The winning stories were meticulously selected by a panel of esteemed judges: writers Neil Hegarty, Tristan Rosenstock, and Jan Carson. They had the daunting task of choosing from a shortlist of 10 stories, which were whittled down from an impressive 2,200 entries!
Neil Hegarty, in his remarks while awarding the prize, highlighted the subtle brilliance of "Witness." He noted how the story captures a middle-aged woman's introspection, sparked by the arrival of a French exchange student, leading to a potential rebirth of courage and a new way of living. It's a testament to the power of storytelling to inspire and provoke thought.
So, what do you think? Are you intrigued by the themes of domestic tension and personal transformation? Do you agree with the judges' choices? We'd love to hear your thoughts in the comments below! Let's spark a conversation about the art of storytelling and its impact on our lives.
