Congratulations to Swithun Cooper, a runner-up of the 2025 Desperate Literature Short Fiction Prize, for “Expansion Street.”
Between the terraced streets of a small English city, a new road has appeared – but anyone who crosses it doesn’t come back. Is it a trap, or a route to a better life? When Adam, who lives nearby, meets a child claiming to be his ex-lover returned transformed, he must ask himself if it is this child, or his own instincts, that he shouldn’t trust. What does Expansion Street mean for those with power, versus those without?
“The Desperate Literature Prize experience has been mind-blowing. It’s boosted my confidence, brought me new professional opportunities, and led to some wonderful, creative conversations with the other shortlisted writers. Thank you!”