Deborah Bennison, LISP 2025 Short Story Finalist, 'You can't stay' & LISP 2025 Flash Fiction Finalist, 'Harbinger'

Could you please tell us about yourself and your daily routine?

I’ve spent most of my working life as a copywriter but now have a little more time to focus on my own writing – something I’ve always wanted to do.

How frequently do you write? Do you have a writing routine?

I try to write or edit most mornings. I’m currently on my umpteenth edit of a novel that has slowly been coming together over the past year.

How does it feel to have your work acknowledged as a finalist?

This was my first ever competition entry, so being named a finalist in both the short story and flash fiction categories was completely unexpected – and a really lovely surprise.

What's the most rewarding and challenging aspect of writing a story? 

The most rewarding moments are when something I’ve written connects with a reader. The toughest part is looking at my own work objectively; it’s really hard to see it through the eyes of someone reading it for the first time.

How did you come up with the idea for your LISP-selected story and flash fiction?

This haiku by Matsuo Bashō is the inspiration for my flash fiction piece, Harbinger:

Loneliness –

Caged cricket dangling

From the wall.

My short story You Can’t Stay is an extract from the novel I’m writing and is loosely based on a real-life experience.

 What is the best aspect and the most challenging aspect of competitions? 

I’m new to entering competitions, but I like the challenge of working to a deadline – it’s a great way to set positive goals and feel that you’re sending something out into the world.