Trips to the beach are often enjoyable.

For Wilbraham & Monson Academy faculty member Emily Dromgold ’17, an unexpected encounter at a beach in Ireland proved to be not just memorable, but also inspirational.

Ms. Dromgold’s fictional short story “Love You NPP” was published in “Howl: New Irish Writing” in November. She wrote the piece while she pursued her Masters of Arts degree in creative writing at University College Cork in Ireland for a year.

“Love You NPP (Ned Percyous Pickles)” was a recent short story published in a collection that featured new writers inspired by Ireland,” Ms. Dromgold said. “As Ireland is a major influence in my literary heritage and writing, being published in a collection carried by major bookstores in the country (like Waterstones) feels incredibly special. It means that in a small way, my voice may contribute to a long tradition of storytellers and writers as well.” 

Ms. Dromgold didn’t go to Achill Island that day with the intention of finding a story. However, when a dog brought her a stone and the two began to play fetch, Ms. Dromgold’s creative wheels began to turn.

“From the inspiration of his character, I shaped the piece around the idea of unconditional love presented in the form of the bond between a young woman and her dog,” Ms. Dromgold explained. “I also wanted to blend genres, bringing together more lyrical prose with mystery and thriller storytelling styles. I am also fascinated by the extraordinary captured in moments that feel quite ordinary. This story incorporates this type of exploration.” 

Ms. Dromgold, a member of WMA’s English Department, has been published more than 20 times. Her latest work earned a 2022 Pushcart Prize nomination.

“I love the freedom that writing gives me,” Ms. Dromgold said. “When I share my writing, I share the form of expression where I feel most like myself and most at home. My thoughts and stories are received without the influence of my appearance, background or other variables of my identity that could change the nature of how someone understands and connects to my work.”

Ms. Dromgold publishes under the name Emily Anna King in honor of the strong women in her life. King is her grandmother’s maiden name. She also publishes her name in Chinese to honor her heritage.