This latest writing contest concluded a few nights ago. I received 15 awesome entries and have spent the past few days reading through them all and deliberating. Writers were asked to produce original short stories using the following painting by @tanglebranch as a writing prompt.

Before I announce the winners, I would like to say how overjoyed I was when I realized most of my top picks had been workshopped at The Writers' Block. Although I did not take note of the usernames when I read the stories, it reflects the real benefit of our critiquing and editing process at The Writers' Block, and I am extremely proud of our community.

Without further ado, my top pick was The Cabin Boy from @thinknzombie. His writing always excites me, but the twist at the end of this story was totally unexpected and a joy to read. Congratulations @thinknzombie! You win 20 SBD, plus 5.579 SBD from the contest announcement post, making 25.579 SBD.

My first runner up is Moonbeach from @sroka87. The story revolves around a VR simulation and the dangers of the technology. A very enjoyable read and a great interpretation of the prompt. @sroka87 wins 5 SBD.

Next up is Fire and Ice by @negativer. His story involves a mermaid and a satyr, blindly messing with powers beyond their control out of love for each other. @negativer wins 5 SBD.

My final selection is Nothing but Canvas by @jonknight. I enjoyed the poignant look at an old man transported into the painting. Is it a memory or a dream? Whichever, the old man finds contentment. @jonknight also wins 5 SBD.

Thank you to everyone who submitted an entry into this contest. Every time I run one of these I am blown away by the incredible talent on show at Steemit and it gets harder each time to select the winners. As a reminder, I am running the art portion of this contest currently, looking for a piece of art for the next writing contest. See here.

Proof of prize payments.

Are you a writer or keen to learn? Do you wish to join a community of like-minded individuals who can help hone your writing skills in the fields of fiction, non-fiction, technical, poetry, songwriting or playwriting? Join us at The Writers' Block on Discord and follow our community account @thewritersblock.