[
    {
        "role": "user",
        "content": "CAN%20YOU%20FIND%20DETAILS%20TO%20THE%20RTE%20SHORT%20STORY%20COMPETITION%202026"
    },
    {
        "role": "assistant",
        "content": "Here are the full, up-to-date details for the **RT\u00c9 Short Story Competition 2026** (in honour of Francis MacManus) based on official sources:\n\n---\n\n## Key Facts\n\n- The competition celebrates its 40th year. ([mayonews.ie](https://www.mayonews.ie/news/home/2036338/calling-mayo-writers-short-story-competition-opens-for-entries.html?utm_source=openai))  \n- It invites short fiction from writers in Ireland *and* from Irish writers abroad who hold an Irish passport. ([writing.ie](https://www.writing.ie/writing-comps/rte-short-story-competition-2026/?utm_source=openai))  \n- Open to anyone aged 18 or over as of the closing date. ([writing.ie](https://www.writing.ie/writing-comps/rte-short-story-competition-2026/?utm_source=openai))  \n- Languages accepted: **English or Irish**. ([writing.ie](https://www.writing.ie/writing-comps/rte-short-story-competition-2026/?utm_source=openai))  \n\n---\n\n## Submission Requirements\n\n- **Word-count**: between **1,800 and 2,000 words** (title excluded). ([mayonews.ie](https://www.mayonews.ie/news/home/2036338/calling-mayo-writers-short-story-competition-opens-for-entries.html?utm_source=openai))  \n- The story must be *original*, fictional, entirely your own work, not previously published or broadcast, nor under consideration elsewhere during the judging period. It must be suitable for broadcast (so avoid, for instance, excessive profanity). ([writing.ie](https://www.writing.ie/writing-comps/rte-short-story-competition-2026/?utm_source=openai))  \n- Only **one entry per person** is permitted. Multiple submissions will result in only the first being considered. ([writing.ie](https://www.writing.ie/writing-comps/rte-short-story-competition-2026/?utm_source=openai))  \n\n---\n\n## How to Enter\n\n- Submissions are accepted **online via Submittable** or **by post**. ([writing.ie](https://www.writing.ie/writing-comps/rte-short-story-competition-2026/?utm_source=openai))  \n- Email entries or hand-delivered submissions are **not** accepted. ([writing.ie](https://www.writing.ie/writing-comps/rte-short-story-competition-2026/?utm_source=openai))  \n- Postal entries must include a completed entry form (available on RT\u00c9\u2019s website). ([writing.ie](https://www.writing.ie/writing-comps/rte-short-story-competition-2026/?utm_source=openai))  \n- Layout for postal entries: typed, double-spaced, one side only, A4 page, pages numbered. ([writing.ie](https://www.writing.ie/writing-comps/rte-short-story-competition-2026/?utm_source=openai))  \n- Judges will see anonymised work: **no name** on the story itself, only on the entry form. ([writing.ie](https://www.writing.ie/writing-comps/rte-short-story-competition-2026/?utm_source=openai))  \n\n---\n\n## Deadlines\n\n- **Opening date**: Entries opened in **March 2026**. ([writing.ie](https://www.writing.ie/writing-comps/rte-short-story-competition-2026/?utm_source=openai))  \n- **Closing date**: **Midnight Irish Time, Friday 15 May 2026**. For postal entries, up to and including that date. ([writing.ie](https://www.writing.ie/writing-comps/rte-short-story-competition-2026/?utm_source=openai))  \n\n---\n\n## Prizes\n\n- 1st prize: **\u20ac5,000** ([mayonews.ie](https://www.mayonews.ie/news/home/2036338/calling-mayo-writers-short-story-competition-opens-for-entries.html?utm_source=openai))  \n- 2nd prize: **\u20ac4,000** ([mayonews.ie](https://www.mayonews.ie/news/home/2036338/calling-mayo-writers-short-story-competition-opens-for-entries.html?utm_source=openai))  \n- 3rd prize: **\u20ac3,000** ([mayonews.ie](https://www.mayonews.ie/news/home/2036338/calling-mayo-writers-short-story-competition-opens-for-entries.html?utm_source=openai))  \n- Plus, seven other shortlisted writers will each receive **\u20ac300**. ([mayonews.ie](https://www.mayonews.ie/news/home/2036338/calling-mayo-writers-short-story-competition-opens-for-entries.html?utm_source=openai))  \n\n---\n\n## Judges & Additional Notes\n\n- The judges for 2026 are **Jan Carson**, **Tristan Rosenstock**, and newcomer **Aingeala Flannery**. ([mayonews.ie](https://www.mayonews.ie/news/home/2036338/calling-mayo-writers-short-story-competition-opens-for-entries.html?utm_source=openai))  \n- Shortlisted stories will be **broadcast** and **published** (i.e. made available via RT\u00c9 as part of a season of new writing). ([writing.ie](https://www.writing.ie/writing-comps/rte-short-story-competition-2026/?utm_source=openai))  \n- Minor corrections (e.g. typographical errors) may be made during production; stories will otherwise be recorded and broadcast *as submitted*. ([writing.ie](https://www.writing.ie/writing-comps/rte-short-story-competition-2026/?utm_source=openai))  \n\n---\n\nIf you like, I can also pull together past winning entries or tips on how to get shortlisted. Do you want me to dig that up?"
    },
    {
        "role": "user",
        "content": "WHAT%20SUBJECTS%20WERE%20PAST%20WINNING%20STORIES"
    },
    {
        "role": "assistant",
        "content": "Here are summaries of the **subject matter / themes** of recent past winning and high-placing stories in the RT\u00c9 Short Story Competition, to help you understand what kinds of stories have resonated with past judges.\n\n---\n\n## Recent Winners & Their Themes\n\n### *Dead Bait* (Mattie Brennan, Winner 2024)  \nJudges praised *Dead Bait* for its \u201csense of jeopardy that grows as the story nears its gripping conclusion.\u201d([irishtimes.com](https://www.irishtimes.com/culture/books/2024/12/06/susannah-dickeys-isdal-wins-pen-heaney-prize/?utm_source=openai))  \n**Theme / Subject:** Tension, suspense, threat\u2014this story leans into psychological drama and building danger over time.([irishtimes.com](https://www.irishtimes.com/culture/books/2024/12/06/susannah-dickeys-isdal-wins-pen-heaney-prize/?utm_source=openai))\n\n### *Divination* (Stephen O\u2019Reilly, 2nd Prize 2024)  \nWhile detailed plot summaries are less readily available, being second place means it likely engaged with themes of insight, perhaps forecasting or spiritual/mystical elements, suggested by the title.([irishtimes.com](https://www.irishtimes.com/culture/books/2024/12/06/susannah-dickeys-isdal-wins-pen-heaney-prize/?utm_source=openai))\n\n### *The Other \u00d3rla* (Emer O'Toole, 3rd Prize 2024)  \nAgain, plot details are limited, but as a top-three story, it similarly explores character depth and emotional life\u2014possibly relationships or identity, particularly given its personal-sounding title.([irishtimes.com](https://www.irishtimes.com/culture/books/2024/12/06/susannah-dickeys-isdal-wins-pen-heaney-prize/?utm_source=openai))\n\n### *Witness* (Lynda McCarthy, Winner 2025)  \nDescribed by judges as \u201csubtle, sensitive, and quietly powerful,\u201d *Witness* follows a woman in middle age who \u201ctakes stock of her life\u201d when a young French exchange student enters her household. The arrival of this outsider leads her to see her familiar world in a new light, sparking reflection about identity, recognition, invisibility, domestic life, and transformation.([dailystar.ie](https://dailystar.ie/lynda-mccarthy-wins-2025-rte-story-witness/?utm_source=openai))\n\n---\n\n## Older Examples (Names, Titles, Clues)\n\nGoing further back, several winning story titles provide some indication of common themes. For instance:\n\n- *\u201cDark Horses\u201d* by Claire Keegan (winner in 2005) suggests undervalued strength or unexpected capability.([en.wikipedia.org](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Francis_MacManus?utm_source=openai))  \n- *\u201cA Thing of Beauty\u201d* (2006) focuses on aesthetic or emotional truths.([en.wikipedia.org](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Francis_MacManus?utm_source=openai))  \n- *\u201cHay\u201d* (2008) and *\u201cThe World of Tides\u201d* (2005) point to nature or environment, possibly metaphorical.([en.wikipedia.org](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Francis_MacManus?utm_source=openai))  \n- *\u201cAfter the Ball\u201d* (1993) and *\u201cLove\u201d* (1999) clearly explore relationships and human emotions.([en.wikipedia.org](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Francis_MacManus?utm_source=openai))\n\n---\n\n## Overall Patterns & What Works\n\nFrom the recent winners and shortlisted stories, key recurring features/themes emerge:\n\n- **Ordinary lives in transition** \u2014 Stories often look at everyday people whose lives are disrupted by something small but meaningful. *Witness* is a great example.\n- **Emotional interiority** \u2014 Reflection, identity, self-perception. Emotional awareness and change are central.\n- **Tension and moral or psychological complexity** \u2014 *Dead Bait* uses suspense; many stories weigh internal conflict, regret, recognition.\n- **Symbol and moment-driven narrative** \u2014 The arrival of someone new, a family interaction, the perception of invisibility \u2014 all moments that symbolize larger truths.\n\n---\n\nIf you like, I can pull together summaries of all shortlisted stories from the past few years so you can see a wider set of subjects and forms\u2014would that be helpful?"
    },
    {
        "role": "user",
        "content": "HAVE%20YOU%20ANY%20TIPS"
    },
    {
        "role": "assistant",
        "content": "Here are some targeted tips to help you craft a strong entry for the RT\u00c9 Short Story Competition. Many draw on what RT\u00c9 looks for, what past shortlist feedback has focused on, and what judges generally like (and dislike).  \n\n---\n\n## What Judges & RT\u00c9 Appreciate\n\n1. **Read Stories That Have Won or Been Shortlisted**  \n   RT\u00c9 publishes past winners and shortlist stories on **rte.ie/writing/culture**. Listening to those broadcast (on RT\u00c9 Radio 1) helps you get a feel for pacing, voice, structure, and what sounds good when read aloud. ([writing.ie](https://www.writing.ie/writing-comps/rte-short-story-competition-2026/?utm_source=openai))  \n   \n2. **Focus on \u201cBroadcast Quality\u201d**  \n   Since stories are recorded by actors for radio, the way your writing *sounds* matters: dialogue rhythms, clarity of voice, avoiding awkward sentences. RT\u00c9 rules also state stories must be \u201csuitable for broadcast by RT\u00c9 to a general audience,\u201d warning against excessive profanity. ([writing.ie](https://www.writing.ie/writing-comps/rte-short-story-competition-2026/?utm_source=openai))  \n\n3. **Strong Emotional Core & Human Connection**  \n   Judges repeatedly mention that shortlisted entries tend to engage with emotional lives, relationships, identity, loss, connection, etc. It\u2019s often these personal, quietly powerful stories\u2014rather than huge plot twists\u2014that stand out. In 2024, judges noted \u201chuman connection was the subject of almost every story we read.\u201d ([writing.ie](https://www.writing.ie/news/rte-short-story/?utm_source=openai))  \n\n4. **Originality & Risk**  \n   While human themes are common, it\u2019s originality\u2014how you frame them, your setting, your characters\u2014that distinguishes a successful story. Whether setting in contemporary Ireland or introducing speculative or genre elements, it\u2019s often how uniquely you approach these that matters. ([irishtimes.com](https://www.irishtimes.com/culture/books/and-the-winner-of-this-year-s-francis-macmanus-competition-is-1.4013965?utm_source=openai))  \n\n---\n\n## Key Practical Tips & Common Pitfalls\n\n1. **Obey All the Rules**  \n   - Word-count must be 1,800\u20132,000 words (excluding title). ([writing.ie](https://www.writing.ie/writing-comps/rte-short-story-competition-2026/?utm_source=openai))  \n   - Make sure your name is *only* on the entry form\u2014not on the story itself. ([writing.ie](https://www.writing.ie/writing-comps/rte-short-story-competition-2026/?utm_source=openai))  \n   - Use the formats required: double-spaced, A4 pages, numbered pages if submitting by post. ([writing.ie](https://www.writing.ie/writing-comps/rte-short-story-competition-2026/?utm_source=openai))  \n   - Submitting online or by post only\u2014no email or hand delivery. ([writing.ie](https://www.writing.ie/writing-comps/rte-short-story-competition-2026/?utm_source=openai))  \n\n2. **Strong Opening & Tight Structure**  \n   You want to *hook* the judges early. If the first paragraph or page doesn't engage\u2014through intriguing character, tension, voice\u2014it\u2019s harder to get through to the shortlist. Also: make sure every part of the story builds toward a satisfying resolution or change. Avoid unnecessary digressions.  \n\n3. **Polish Your Writing**  \n   - Proofread carefully: grammar, spelling, punctuation. Mistakes pull readers out of the story.  \n   - Read your story aloud. This helps catch awkward phrasing, rhythm issues, or dialogue that sounds unnatural.  \n   - Edit ruthlessly: cut anything that doesn\u2019t contribute. Especially in tight word limits, unnecessary detail weakens narrative impact.  \n\n4. **Dialogue & Voice**  \n   Dialogue must feel real and serve purpose (reveal character, move story, create tension). If it\u2019s only \u201csmall talk,\u201d consider whether it can be reworked or removed. Also, ensure voice is consistent (point of view, tense).  \n\n5. **Use Show, Not Tell**  \n   Let characters reveal themselves through action, dialogue, or sensory detail rather than long exposition. For instance, instead of \"She was anxious,\" show her hands shaking, or how her thoughts spiral. This is even more important in broadcast fiction where listeners lean on auditory cues.  \n\n6. **Consider Pacing & Moment of Change**  \n   A story doesn\u2019t need huge events\u2014but ideally it includes a clear moment of decision, shift, realization, or change. Many winning stories are about life transformed by small events: the arrival of someone new, a choice made, seeing something differently.  \n\n7. **Let It Rest, Then Revise**  \n   Give your draft time (a few days, if possible). Come back with fresh eyes to identify weak spots, repetitions, or anything which seems flat. Ask for feedback from trusted readers if possible.  \n\n8. **Title with Purpose**  \n   The title should carry meaning\u2014tie into theme, mood, or metaphor. It\u2019s often the first thing a judge sees, so budget a few minutes to craft something that echoes your story\u2019s voice.  \n\n---\n\nIf you want, I can give you a checklist specific to the RT\u00c9 competition (you can run your story through it before submitting) or even personalized feedback on one of your ideas. Want me to set that up for you?"
    },
    {
        "role": "user",
        "content": "CAN%20YOU%20TELL%20ME%20ABOUT%20THE%20TIMES%20SHORT%20STORY%20COMPETITION"
    },
    {
        "role": "assistant",
        "content": "Here\u2019s a detailed look at *The Sunday Times / Sunday Times Audible Short Story Award* \u2014 often referred to simply as *The Times Short Story Competition* \u2014 with up-to-date rules, prizes, eligibility, and history. If you meant a different \u201cTimes\u201d competition, just say so and I can pull the correct info.\n\n---\n\n## About the Competition\n\n- It\u2019s one of the biggest and most prestigious single short\u2010story awards in the UK and Ireland. ([shortstoryaward.co.uk](https://shortstoryaward.co.uk/about/?utm_source=openai))  \n- The prize is \u00a330,000 for the winner. ([shortstoryaward.co.uk](https://shortstoryaward.co.uk/about/?utm_source=openai))  \n- Six shortlisted writers each receive \u00a31,000. These stories are included in a *shortlisted stories anthology* \u2014 released in audiobook format via Audible. ([shortstoryaward.co.uk](https://shortstoryaward.co.uk/about/?utm_source=openai))  \n\n---\n\n## Key Rules & Submission Guidelines\n\nHere are what entrants must do and meet:\n\n- The story must be **6,000 words maximum**. ([shortstoryaward.co.uk](https://shortstoryaward.co.uk/terms-conditions/?utm_source=openai))  \n- Written in **English**, typed, double-spaced, in 12-point Arial font, black ink. ([shortstoryaward.co.uk](https://shortstoryaward.co.uk/terms-conditions/?utm_source=openai))  \n- Do *not* include the author\u2019s name anywhere on the story itself or in the file name. The first/page must only have the **title** and **word count**. ([shortstoryaward.co.uk](https://shortstoryaward.co.uk/terms-conditions/?utm_source=openai))  \n- Stories must either be **unpublished** worldwide or scheduled/first published after January 1, 2020. ([shortstoryaward.co.uk](https://shortstoryaward.co.uk/terms-conditions/?utm_source=openai))  \n\n---\n\n## Eligibility Criteria\n\n- Writers must be **18 years or older**. ([shortstoryaward.co.uk](https://shortstoryaward.co.uk/terms-conditions/?utm_source=openai))  \n- Must have been **published previously** in English in the UK or Ireland. That includes works of fiction, poetry, broadcast or literary/non-fiction. ([shortstoryaward.co.uk](https://shortstoryaward.co.uk/terms-conditions/?utm_source=openai))  \n- Only **one entry per author** allowed. ([shortstoryaward.co.uk](https://shortstoryaward.co.uk/terms-conditions/?utm_source=openai))  \n\n---\n\n## Rights & Use of Winning Stories\n\n- Entrants retain copyright, but by submitting, winners and shortlisted authors grant a perpetual, royalty-free license to *The Sunday Times*, *Audible*, and related parties to use the story in any medium (print, audio, online, etc.). ([shortstoryaward.co.uk](https://shortstoryaward.co.uk/terms-conditions/?utm_source=openai))  \n\n---\n\n## Status & Funding\n\n- It used to be sponsored by EFG Private Bank; later by Audible. As of 2022, it was reportedly \u201cin danger of being discontinued\u201d since Audible withdrew sponsorship that year, and no replacement had been found. ([en.wikipedia.org](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Sunday_Times_Short_Story_Award?utm_source=openai))  \n- Because sponsorship and awards are expensive, keeping tabs on the latest updates (via the official website) is important to ensure the competition is currently running and what the rules are.  \n\n---\n\nIf you like, I can check whether there\u2019s a *2026 version* currently open and what its exact deadlines are. Do you want those details?"
    },
    {
        "role": "user",
        "content": "CAN%20YOU%20CHECK%20TO%20SEE%20IF%20THERE%20IS%20A%202026%20COMPETITION%20AND%20RULES"
    },
    {
        "role": "assistant",
        "content": "I couldn\u2019t find any credible evidence that *The Sunday Times / Sunday Times Audible Short Story Award* has announced a **2026 competition** or published updated rules. Here\u2019s a breakdown of what I found:\n\n---\n\n## What I Discovered\n\n1. **Last Held in 2021**  \n   Wikipedia documents that the most recent award was in 2021. After that year, Audible\u2014its sponsor\u2014pulled out. ([en.wikipedia.org](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Sunday_Times_Short_Story_Award?utm_source=openai))\n\n2. **Sponsor Withdrawal & Hiatus**  \n   In July 2022, *The Bookseller* reported that the prize was \u201cin danger of being discontinued\u201d because no new sponsor had been secured. At that time, the award had already been delayed. ([en.wikipedia.org](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Sunday_Times_Short_Story_Award?utm_source=openai))\n\n3. **Official Website Is Outdated**  \n   The last recorded updates on the award\u2019s own website date from 2025. Nothing indicates that a 2026 edition has been scheduled or that submissions are being accepted. ([shortstoryaward.co.uk](https://shortstoryaward.co.uk/contact/?utm_source=openai))\n\n---\n\n## Conclusion\n\n- As of **April 2026**, there is **no sign** the Sunday Times Short Story Award is running this year.\n- No announced sponsor replacement, no calls for entries, no updated rules\u2014nothing credible yet.\n- The competition remains **on hiatus** since Audible\u2019s withdrawal in 2021. ([en.wikipedia.org](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Sunday_Times_Short_Story_Award?utm_source=openai))\n\n---\n\nIf you like, I can check whether it might be revived in late 2026\u2014or suggest similar short story competitions you could enter soon."
    }
]