Ardain Isma
CSMS Magazine
Today, CSMS Magazine proudly celebrates the exceptional achievements of the four distinguished winners of this year’s Chapter One Writing Competition. This annual event, organized by Black Writers Workspace under the leadership of award-winning author Michelle Jackson, has become a highlight for emerging talent in the literary world. This year’s competition holds special significance, as it was hosted in collaboration with Village Care Publishing, an independent publishing house committed to providing indie writers with greater opportunities to reach wider audiences.
Through their talent, dedication, and the power of their words, these remarkable writers have captured our imaginations and stirred our emotions with just the first two chapters of their manuscripts. Each story represents a unique voice, a distinct perspective, and a profound contribution to the art of storytelling. Their works are a reflection of their individual brilliance and a testament to the boundless potential of human creativity. Today, we honor their commitment to their craft and their ability to transcend the boundaries of language and culture. Along with the entire Village Care Publishing editing team, I am convinced that their persistence and devotion to storytelling will someday touch readers from all walks of life. Their success in this prestigious competition is a well-deserved recognition of their passion for literature and their unwavering dedication to their art. As we celebrate their accomplishments, we eagerly anticipate the lasting impact they will continue to make on the world of writing. Congratulations to all our winners—your achievements are a shining beacon for aspiring writers everywhere!
Below, please find the names of the winners, the titles of their works, and a summary explaining why each piece was chosen.
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The Box
By Cathelina Duvert
These two chapters from The Box present a story of emotional tension and unresolved inner conflict. In the first chapter, Mia grapples with her fraught relationship with her deceased mother, symbolized by her conflicted decision to place flowers on her grave. Her ambivalence and guilt emerge, hinting at unresolved grief and familial tension. In the second chapter, Mia attempts to break up with her confident, overbearing boyfriend Derek over lunch. However, her emotional vulnerability and Derek’s calm persistence cause her to hesitate. Both chapters illustrate Mia’s struggle for autonomy against deeply ingrained emotional entanglements, suggesting themes of identity, family trauma, and self-realization.
Literary Relevance: These chapters have significant literary relevance as they delve into the protagonist’s internal conflict and the complexity of personal relationships. The juxtaposition of Mia’s relationship with her mother and Derek reflects how unresolved familial issues impact her romantic life, creating a nuanced exploration of personal growth and emotional baggage. The focus on psychological depth, character development, and interpersonal dynamics makes these chapters relevant to literary discussions on identity, autonomy, and emotional resilience.
His Other Wife
By Mercie Malone
The protagonist, Belle, is thrust into a devastating situation after receiving a call about her husband Dominic’s life-threatening car accident. As she rushes to the hospital, Belle is shocked to discover another woman at Dominic’s bedside who claims to be his wife. Belle, who had believed her marriage to Dominic was strong despite their challenges, is now faced with the revelation that Dominic may have been living a double life. The chapters explore Belle’s emotional turmoil as she processes both the potential loss of her husband and the unimaginable betrayal she must now confront.
Literary Relevance: These chapters hold literary significance because they delve into themes of betrayal, identity, and emotional upheaval, which resonate with readers on a deep psychological level. The story explores how a woman’s sense of self and her understanding of her reality are shattered by a sudden and shocking event, making it a rich narrative for discussing personal resilience, trust, and the complex nature of relationships. The narrative’s emotional depth and the portrayal of a seemingly perfect life unraveling contribute to its relevance in contemporary fiction.
Leaving Jacksonville
By Valerie Wade
In Leaving Jacksonville, the first chapter describes Little Charles’ excitement about his upcoming baptism in the St. Johns River. He wakes up his family early, eager for the day, as they prepare for the church service. Family dynamics are explored through interactions with Papa Joe, Big Joe, and Ida Mae, highlighting the importance of faith, tradition, and community in their lives. The chapter also touches on their impending move to Detroit, adding a bittersweet note to the day. The second chapter shifts focus to Hattie, Little Charles’ childhood friend, who is heartbroken as she watches him leave. Her mother, Esterline, comforts her while reflecting on her own close friendship with Ida Mae and the challenges of her pregnancy. The emotional farewell emphasizes the bonds between family and friends and the sense of loss felt by those left behind.
Literary Relevance: These chapters hold literary relevance as they explore universal themes of change, community, and the rites of passage. The contrast between the joyous occasion of Little Charles’ baptism and the sorrow of departure creates a poignant tension that deepens the emotional resonance of the story. The narrative also highlights the significance of family heritage, faith, and cultural traditions, making it relevant in discussions about identity and belonging. The use of vivid imagery and emotional depth provides a rich, character-driven narrative that enhances its literary value.
The Purposeful Parent
By Phyllis Goss
In The Purposeful Parent, the chapters reflect on the challenges and rewards of parenting in a fast-paced, ever-changing world. Goss emphasizes that parenting is a lifelong journey requiring self-awareness, adaptability, and intentionality. She discusses the pressures parents face in modern society and contrasts it with the simpler, survival-focused parenting of past generations. Throughout, she encourages parents to focus on character-building, emotional intelligence, and modeling good behavior for their children, reminding readers that parenting is about growth for both parent and child.
Literary Relevance: These chapters have literary significance as they explore themes of personal growth, responsibility, and the evolving nature of parenting. The reflections on how different generations approach raising children, alongside Goss’s emphasis on intentional, mindful parenting, provide a thoughtful and relevant discussion for both contemporary parents and readers interested in personal development. The introspective narrative encourages readers to consider their own values and how they impact their parenting, making it both instructive and inspirational.
Note: Ardain Isma is the Chief-Editor of CSMS Magazine. He is the author of several books, including Midnight at Noon, Bittersweet Memories of Last Spring, and Last Spring was Bittersweet. You can order these books by clicking on the links above.
