So Phina, a writer and publisher at Kampumera Publishing House. Supplied
The French Institute in Cambodia (IFC) is hosting a short story writing workshop in early February 2025, as part of ongoing efforts to promote Khmer literature. Popular author So Phina will lead the workshop, sharing her extensive experience in the field.
Phina, an author and publisher at Kampumera Publishing House, told The Post that the workshop will take place on February 8, from 2pm to 4pm.
“For the workshop, we have selected just 15 participants because we want to maintain quality,” she explained.
“Among those who participated, I believe there will be some writers who have already produced work, and some people who love to read and want to write. We will bring them all together,” she added.
The workshop will cover the fundamentals of short story writing, including structure, character development, and conflict and resolution. It will also feature tips and quotes from both Cambodian and international short story writers, along with practical exercises.
“This presentation will help the participants learn what the positive characteristics of a short story writer are. What are the themes of the short stories he or she reads? And what is their style?” Phina said.
“These points will lead them to understand the patterns of short stories and reach the beginning of writing, which is the inspiration for creating a story,” she continued.
Author So Phina and supporters at a recent book fair. Supplied
The workshop will also address positive communication in writing, particularly relevant with Valentine’s Day approaching. Phina expressed concern about certain portrayals of romance in contemporary literature.
It is not uncommon in Cambodia to encounter novels and dramas where male leads forcefully kiss or hug female leads, perpetuating a culture that romanticises submissive female roles in relationships.
“For some time, I have seen literature that reflects sexual violence against many women without the permission of the female character first, the male character goes to grab and hug her, and the female character pushes him away,” she noted.
“So it perpetrates the culture of rape or coercion without permission,” she emphasised.
“I want to focus on that meaning so that the participants (trainees) can feel about romance. They need to know how to write positive relationships. It’s not that people should rape someone first or kiss them first. Writing like this is not good. It affects society. It’s like encouraging coercion and rape,” she warned.
With over 12 years of writing experience, Phina believed the art of writing short stories was under-represented in Cambodia, with only a handful of institutions publishing short story collections.
So Phina participates in the 5th Khmer Literature Festival. Supplied
However, she was optimistic that the workshop would contribute to the growth of the writing industry in Cambodia, equipping participants with the skills to write both short and long-form narratives.
“I believe that once they understand how to write, they will have confidence in writing,” she said.
“In fact, there is not that much difference in writing short or long stories. The writing style and theory are similar. If they write short stories, they will understand themselves and will soon be able to write longer pieces.”
“The more work a writer produces, the better their chance of being published and the better chance of attracting readers. This will make Khmer literature more popular and in turn, increase the money the industry produces, hopefully inspiring deeper thinking in society,” she concluded.
