Writing a short story inspired by real and personal events provides a fun playground for experimentation. Especially when the story homes in on a quest—in this case, for an admiral’s cap—with the intention to offer it as a gift to my grandfather Raoul. A path strewn with pitfalls, but also one happy memory. To be shortlisted is an honour, but to be a fellow and finalist is a sheer joy. As for losing the grand prize, that’s great for the ego!

> Read the short story Grandfather and captain