Little Stories Big Ideas winning entry!

A huge congratulations to Emily F (11Z) for winning the Term 1 2024 Little Stories, Big Ideas writing competition - a flash fiction competition for Australian secondary school students. 

The theme for Term 1 was "Addiction", and Emily's entry, Pantry, attained first place in the Year 10-12 category. In their report, the judges said of Emily's story:

This exquisite entry captured our hearts and minds, as a deeply moving and poignant exploration of addiction. Emily uses powerful imagery to depict the inner turmoil and complex emotions tied to compulsive eating. The repetition and rhythm of the opening sentence creates a haunting resonance that stays with the reader long after the last line. The honesty and vulnerability make it a standout piece, highlighting the silent battles many face with food and self-worth. Emily beautifully encapsulates the emotional void that addiction can leave and compels the reader to empathise with the struggle.

What a fantastic achievement and very well deserved!

Read Emily's winning entry below:

First Place

Pantry by Emily Ford, Box Hill High School, VIC

The pantry is my home. The pantry is my solace. The pantry makes me feel better. 

Cookie crumbs caress me under the covers.

A secret stash of empty packets under my pillow.

Fruit for school. 

Junk for home.

“Where did the chocolate go?”

“I don’t know.”

My stomach refuses. 

I keep eating. 

There’s shame in my arteries and fat in my veins.

I keep eating.

My body begs me to be friends.

I beg each bite to make me feel better.

But there it is. An emptiness inside of me that food will never fill. 

I take another bite.