Impressive debut for Aroha

STORY-TELLER: Kaitaia author Aroha Bentson signing a copy of Huia Short Stories 11. PICTURE/SUPPLIED

A Kaitaia woman's short story about the healing qualities of water and the power of karakia made its mark at the Pikihuia Awards for Maori writers last month.

Organised by Te Waka Taki Korero (the Maori Literature Trust) for the past 20 years, and designed to celebrate Maori writers and writing, the 2015 awards were presented at Te Wharewaka o Poneke, on Wellington's waterfront.

Aroha Bentson (Ngapuhi, Ngati Kahu, Swedish descent) submitted three entries in the best short story in English category, one of them, The Power of Water, being named one of three finalists, and earning a highly commended citation from judge Sir Wira Gardiner, who commented:

"The storyline was tightly managed, and I was not uncomfortable in the way in which it unfolded ... here was no denouement or surprise ending, and this in itself demonstrated the writer's ability to tell a simple story effectively."

The winner of the best short story in English category was Whangarei's Tony Pivac (Ngati Whatua, Te Rarawa, Ngapuhi), Sir Wira saying In the Space of a Moment held the reader's attention from beginning to end, showing a good understanding of plot development and efficiently pacing the story to its surprising conclusion.

He went on to say that short story-writing was widely regarded as one of the more challenging aspects of literature, as there was little room for expansive description compared with a longer work, and storylines need to be tightly scripted.

"I was surprised and delighted by the range of talent evident in submissions. I want to acknowledge those who took the courage of their convictions to submit a story for consideration," he said.

Aroha said was also honoured to have The Power of Water included in the recently published collection Huia Short Stories 11, which showcases the work of the awards finalists.

"To most writers, regardless of genre, the best prize is to be published, because this gives the writer recognition," she said, while the prospect of winning prize money provided further motivation to enter awards.