As you are probably aware I am running a parable competition at the moment with Paraclete Press to mark the release of my new book, The Orthodox Heretic and Other Impossible Tales

The competition runs until 1st August 2009 (winners announced 1st September). In the original competition information I mentioned that the parable should ideally run from between 100 and 1000 words. However please don’t feel constrained by words. I like surprises. Perhaps you would like to enter a short film, graphic story or song.

The only remit is that entries follow the principles of a parable. This basically means that one employs the use of an extended metaphor in which fictional characters and actions are created in order to draw out, explore and interrogate some idea relating to life and faith.

Please send entries to Carol Showalter.

To mark the US release of my latest book, Paraclete are running a writing competition. The idea is to get you, yes you, to write a parable dealing with pretty much anything. It should ideally be between 100 and 1000 words in length. Oh, and you can enter as many times as you like.

First prize is a beautiful limited edition print entitled ‘New Life‘ by the artist Jared Robinson (Jared is currently collaborating with me to create work inspired by my writings). You will also receive $100 worth of Paraclete books of your choice and the adoration of your friends and family.

Second and third prize will receive $50 worth of Paraclete books.

My desire in running this competition is to help people rediscover the importance and power of parable. So, if you attend a writing circle, church community, youth group etc. you might want to take some time to explore the theme of parables (suggested reading below) and then encourage everyone to write one.

So what are you waiting for? Send your entries to Carol Showalter, no later than 1st August, 2009. 

The entries will be judged by myself and the winners announced on 1st September, 2009 both here and at Paraclete Press.

Tips:

A parable can be loosely described as a short, fictional narrative that draws the reader 
into an insight concerning some aspect of faith and life. Parables often work best when 
they challenge commonly held attitudes and unmask the poverty of some widely held value. Parables are generally structured in a very simple and stark way, with a narrative that avoids any unnecessary detail that may detract from the central, evocative message.

Some books, apart from my own, that might help get you in the mood include,

The Song of the Bird

Parables of Kierkegaard (Kierkegaard’s Writings)

Just got a delivery of the new book and really pleased by now it looks. Paraclete have done a great job. The book is officially out now but might take a few days to get to the book shops and Amazon. However you can purchase it today at Paraclete (sadly, only if you are in the US, UK publishing date still to be confirmed)

It’s been very encouraging to see the US January-February tour fill up so quickly. Indeed there is already enough interest to start planning another tour, though I will wait until the next book is out before setting out again (April 2009 – If you have interest in me speaking on this book tour please email Alyson).

Anyway, I think ‘Lessons in Evandalism’ is pretty much sown up, but if you live near Grand Rapids I have a couple of free days (2nd – 4th February) as well as a day in New York (24th February). If you would like me to do a talk, facilitated discussion and/or workshop drop Alyson a line ASAP.

My November/December speaking tour is almost set thanks to the hard work of Carol Showalter at Paraclete. This time I will not only be hopping round the US but will also get a chance to dip my toe into Canada. There is however one day in the tour that is still up for grabs. Sunday evening 7th December in Boston (the night before I return home). If you live in Boston and would be interested in me speaking please drop an email to Carol Showalter. Of course it is my last night so maybe we should just have a big party!