At the end of 2009 we invited writers who have their own experiences with cancer to write stories or poems for potential inclusion in Memories. After much deliberation I’m really pleased to announce that poetry enthusiast Joe Kriss has had a piece of work selected to be printed in the book – the winner of our open submissions category.

Joe chose to write about how his uncle Tony was lost to cancer, and touches on themes of loss and guilt. I think it’s really touching because it explores that sensation of guilt you get when you realise you’re starting to forget little things about the person you’ve lost. Or how you feel bad when you begin to miss them a little less. That brings on a whole new kind of sadness, I guess.

Joe’s poem is called Otherside, and was one of a number of submissions we evaluated. Jacob Denno of Popshot magazine was our guest judge for the open submissions text that we received, and he said: “The best one by far. Really feels like it touches on the loss and some beautiful use of language. Loved the ‘Life hung upon your bones like a feather’ line and many other strong images within it.”

We don’t want to spoil it too much for you, though, so you’ll have to wait until the book is out to read it. I’d like to congratulate Joe and say that you can check out his stuff here. I would also like to thank all the other people who submitted work. Each story or poem was special in its own way, and we really appreciate the efforts people tmade to take part. Where possible, we’ll be posting some of the other entries here on the blog for everyone to read.