Perth is set to become the first Australian city to permanently hero the international literary trend: the very, very short story.
The short story dispensing machines that distribute a variety of one, three or five-minute stories are the brainchild Short Edition, a French community publisher of short-form literature and will find its home at Raine Square from Friday 16 October.
The innovative machines, which print short, free stories on eco-friendly paper, have won over international book worms and casual readers alike.
Installed around the world, everywhere from London’s bustling financial district, Canary Wharf to Academy Award-winner Francis Ford Coppola’s San Francisco café.
The international literary craze is now coming to Perth, with its very own Short Story Station located in Raine Square.
Raine Square have partnered with Writing WA, a local literature organisation, to commission 20 original short stories written by renowned West Australians. Hosting authors such as David Whish-Wilson and Rashida Murphy, ABC’s Gillian O’Shaughnessy, poet Nadia Rhook and Indigenous songwriter Gina Williams, who will contribute a song lyric in Noongar with an English translation.
In the subsequent weeks the Raine Square exclusive will also roll out not only beloved classics from Emily Dickinson, T.S. Eliot, Virginia Woolf and more, but also Short Edition’s contemporary flash fiction from writers around the world, that will delight both avid and occasional readers.
While Australian’s reading habits have changed, due to social media and the advancement in digital technologies; a recent study from the Australia Council and Macquarie University reveal that 68 per cent of Australians would like to read more.
Charter Hall Fund Manager – Office Partnerships, Trent James, said, “We are thrilled to bring this Australian first to Perth and give West Australians an opportunity to immerse themselves in meaningful story telling while they go about their day.
In these ever-changing times, it’s been a joy to bring this uplifting initiative to Perth.
Trent James
“Australian’s love to read as it can boost creativity and benefit people’s mental health. In these ever-changing times, it’s been a joy to bring this uplifting initiative to Perth. We look forward to seeing how our Short Story Station will inspire and enrich West Australians lives like it has for many people all around the world.”
Following a two-year redevelopment, Raine Square is now home to one of Perth city’s most dynamic and illuminous locations with a desirable variation of offerings.
From activewear to high fashion brands and a plethora of dining options to suit all tastes – Raine Square is quickly becoming one of Perth’s most loved destinations. Raine Square is located on the corner of Wellington, William, Murray and Queen Streets with direct tunnel access to the Perth Underground train station.
