July 14, 2016
Budding Maori writers get expert help
Six budding Maori writers have started on the Maori Literature Trust’s six-month Te Papa Tupu writing incubator.
They’ve been matched up with mentors who will help them set goals and deadlines, provide feedback and communicate weekly with the aim of producing a publishable manuscript.
Shirley Simmonds, from Raukawa, Ngapuhi and Tuwharetoa, says it’s a chance to realise her dream of becoming a writer.
She’s sticking with the short story form for now, shining a light on ordinary life.
"Sometimes I think I'd like to write things that have a little bit of magic and mystery in them. Sometimes things that are profound but always, always I 'll be writing from the perspective as a Maori and as a Maori woman," she says.
Shirley Simmonds says she’s keen to write in te reo Maori, and included her first such story in her portfolio.
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