From the archive: Writing Challenge 2009

[StarBase 118 Staff]

Our community Writing Challenge ran from 2003 to 2014 and provided players with writing prompts six times a year. Prompts could be anything from “a character’s sacrifice” to “where do you see the universe in 10 years.” Over the course of 11 years, an anthology of creative writing was produced.

While the challenge ended in 2014 after a long and successful run, there’s lots to read and remember from this archive. In this column, we’ll be looking back at some of the highlights. This month’s edition includes two entries from Jan/Feb 2009. The challenge was simple: “Inheritance” Let’s take a look at some of the stories that were produced!

“Only One Constant” by Nemitor
A glimpse into everyday life in the Federation that shows its citizens in a more rounded, less idealistic way. It starts off murky, giving little detail into when the story takes place, is it prior to the Federations founding? As the story continues, more is revealed and towards the end provides an excellent commentary about the cost of life in the Federation, the sacrifices those on the frontier make for society to enjoy its standard of living.

“A Viking’s Call” by Toni Turner
A tale that thrusts you into the heart of the action. A pitched battle against sword wielding Jem’Hadar using bows and swords. The story gives little background on what is going on, are they on the holodeck, is it a dream or an actual battle, which rather than detract from the story actually helps instil a sense of mystery and helps draw the reader in, leaving them wanting to know more.

Hungry for more? Check out more entries from the 2009 contest in the Hall of Fame by clicking here.

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