Red's Kingdom

Short story: Merion (2025)

There is something supremely narrative about the idea of a lighthouse and my interest in writing this story as my response to The Kick-About No.131 began with thinking about the role of the lighthouse keeper, and why a person might be in need of all that isolation and the routine that comes with the job.…

philgomm
1–2 minutes
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A black illustration of a snake-like eel centered within a square, with the text 'MERION' displayed below it in a bold font.

There is something supremely narrative about the idea of a lighthouse and my interest in writing this story as my response to The Kick-About No.131 began with thinking about the role of the lighthouse keeper, and why a person might be in need of all that isolation and the routine that comes with the job. I enjoyed the research for this and is often the case with writing fiction, the world began to build itself quickly as soon as I understood the ‘when and where’, and then in walked the cast of characters. I won’t say too much more, except to say Merion is completed now and you can read the story here.

4 responses to “Short story: Merion (2025)”

  1. Gary Thorne Avatar
    Gary Thorne

    This is a very good read, in part due to fascinating characters vividly portrayed in situations past and present, but more so to the emotional grip that slowly wraps itself around the reader through the twists and turns of tongue, drawing you in closer and closer to secrets and lies, to desire and fear. You’ll not escape the grip with its demand on empathy nor will you forget your own past and what might have happened if…

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    1. philgomm Avatar
      philgomm

      Gary – such nice feedback, thank you! Happy you enjoyed it. I enjoyed writing it.

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  2. Graeme Daly Avatar
    Graeme Daly

    Phil the string of emotions that went through me when reading this. It was melancholy and heartbreaking at times although made me smile while feeling warm and fuzzy, descriptive to an absolute crystal clarity with plenty of elements that hit close to home. Characters had their gratifying comeuppance while others had their redemption and of course redemptive love that I yearned for. Wow I just loved it. I didn’t want it to end. Xx

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    1. philgomm Avatar
      philgomm

      Morning Graeme! I’m genuinely very happy to hear this tall tale landed with you; somehow this particular cast of characters arrived ‘on set’ fully formed and ready to go. I’m pleased you approved of the ending!

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