Colwill Brown, a writer from Doncaster, has recently been awarded the BBC Short Story Award for a moving narrative titled “You Cannot Thread a Moving Needle.” This poignant story deals with themes of trauma and emotional upheaval, articulated through a South Yorkshire dialect. The award ceremony took place at BBC Broadcasting House, where Brown claimed the prize of £15,000, which is awarded in partnership with Cambridge University.
A Heartbreaking Tale of Trauma
Brown’s story follows a teenage girl whose world is irrevocably altered after a harrowing encounter with two boys. Drawing inspiration from her own experiences in Doncaster during the late 1990s and early 2000s, Brown crafts a narrative that resonates with both authenticity and emotional depth.
Judges Praise Brown’s Storytelling
Di Speirs, chair of the judging panel, remarked on the compelling nature of Brown’s story. “From first reading, Colwill Brown’s story leapt from the page, alive and immediately compelling,” she stated. The judges were particularly impressed by the skillful use of dialect and the intricate exploration of the protagonist’s life, which is profoundly impacted by one moment in time.
Recognition Amongst Notable Nominees
Other authors shortlisted for the award included Caoilinn Hughes, Edward Hogan, Emily Abdeni-Holman, and Andrew Miller. Each of these authors received £600 for their entries. Their works are compiled in an anthology published by Comma Press and are available for listening on BBC Sounds.
- Caoilinn Hughes
- Edward Hogan
- Emily Abdeni-Holman
- Andrew Miller
The Impact of Youth Choices
Bonnie Lander Johnson, a fellow in English at Cambridge University, highlighted how Brown’s narrative effectively examines the consequences of youthful decisions. The interplay between memory and emotion reflects the long-lasting effects of seemingly minor events.
In addition to the adult award, the ceremony also celebrated the young writer’s award, which went to 17-year-old Rebecca Smith for her entry “Scouse’s Run,” further showcasing the breadth of talent within Yorkshire.
About the Winning Story
The story “You Cannot Thread a Moving Needle” is a significant exploration of a young woman’s confrontation with trauma and shame. Brown’s compelling prose and use of dialect provide a raw and authentic glimpse into the struggles faced by the protagonist.
The entire story is available to listen to on BBC Sounds, offering audiences a chance to experience Brown’s powerful narrative firsthand.
