Frozen Words
by
Noelle Sterne
You're barreling along in the middle of a piece, congratulating yourself on great progress when suddenly, for no apparent reason, you freeze. Paralyzed, you stare at the clock and watch your life, fame, and creativity drain away like sangria from a cracked pitcher. Don’t despair or bury your head in the refrigerator. Just keep going.
This admittedly obvious remedy also frees you from an insidious writer’s malady – the one called the "I-must-produce-only-gold" syndrome. Part of the cure is to accept the inevitable byproduct of writing . . . the "garbage" that every writer creates on his/her way to anything worthwhile.
As a mentor once told me, "Write out the junk." Doing so is essential to reach your goal. The process is often a means of discovering where you want to go. To keep going, try these five methods.
Freeing Tools
1. Combat the "only-gold" syndrome by repeating like a mantra, “It's only my second draft” (even if it's your thirty-fifth). Writing takes time, persistence, and relentless effort. Another worthy mantra is Justice Louis Brandeis' pronouncement: “There is no good writing. There is only good rewriting.”
2. Talk to yourself in the middle of the draft. I use italics: What do I really want to say? What got me fired up in the first place? What feelings do I want to express? How do I want the reader to feel? Should I use metaphors or straight talk?
You can delete your questions later – but I’ll bet from your asking, the answers will pop up like toast from a hot-wired toaster.
3. Have faith in the self-talking method. The answers will surface. American poet Richard Wilbur knew this: “Step off assuredly into the blank of your mind. Something will come to you.”
The secret, and scary part is to “step off,” even if you feel like your brain is as vacant as a twenty-something comedy. Muster your writerly courage and swallow, in a literary free-fall.
4. If you still run into a blank wall, talk to yourself again. One of my first draft paragraphs looked like this: “Or, as Richard Wilbur says, ”Just jump off into the blank of your mind. Something should come to you.” Check quote and correct.
Your mind is a fantastic, retentive, associative computer. You can prompt it to produce whatever you need.
5. Keep writing alternatives. Repeat your last good phrase and begin pumping out whatever comes to mind. However forced, lame, ridiculous, or off-the-mark, write the junk out. It's only your fiftieth draft.
For these drafts, I've also developed a system of slashes and codes. To separate the alternatives, I use slashes: “stupid/stupider/go sell shoes.” Mark your best variations with a special symbol, such as * or +.
I also use several codes:
W = WORD, VERY BAD.
FIX = FIX THIS!
REP = REPetition of words, ideas, sounds.
Create any system that makes sense to you.
These five ideas may sound elementary, but they work. They're effective, powerful tools that help you smash your writing mini-blocks. How do you deal with mini-blocks?
Author, editor, ghostwriter, writing coach, and spiritual counselor, Noelle publishes nonfiction and fiction in print and online venues. In Trust Your Life: Forgive Yourself and Go After Your Dreams (Unity Books), she helps writers and others apply practical spirituality to release regrets, relabel the past, and reach lifelong yearnings. See www.trustyourlifenow.com.
Would you like to have a private tutor? Creative Writing Institute eagerly awaits you. Check us out! writer's block, breaking writers block, overcoming writer's block
Wednesday, April 18, 2012
Sunday, January 15, 2012
What is Foreshadowing?
Tips on Foreshadowing by guest blogger Bob Bruggemann
Wikipedia says foreshadowing is a literary device in which an author suggests certain plot developments that might come later in the story. This is an example of foreshadowing:
Sam thought about what the perpetrator said. It was nothing he hadn’t heard before; he’d been threatened many times. The light turned green and he swung around the corner. His eyes panned down the quiet block of single family homes and he knew something was wrong. His partner’s house was dark and so was his. Sam rolled up to the curb and turned off the engine. Leaving his cap on the passenger seat, he pulled out his service revolver, loaded a round into the chamber, and cautiously stepped out of the car.
Sam’s actions give a blatant description of what could happen next. The reader has been forewarned that something might be wrong. It could be a false alarm or it could be something devastating. Only time will tell.
The reader will fall into this trap easily and without suspicion. It’s perfectly natural for a man to enter a tense and dangerous situation with his gun drawn… but suppose he enters the foyer and the lights suddenly come on.
“Surprise! Happy birthday, Honey!” He finds a room full of neighbors in the living room, holding up drinks for a toast. The joy fades as they focus on Sam’s cocked 9mm pistol.
This scenario is a variation of foreshadowing called “misdirection” or otherwise known as a “Red Herring.” See http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Foreshadowing for more examples on the following:
o Premonition
o Master patterning
o Red herring (misdirection)
o Prophecy’s and omens
As an author, you control your world, along with everyone and everything in it. Never be afraid to experiment and push your muse to the limit. There are no limitations to your imagination.
Wikipedia says foreshadowing is a literary device in which an author suggests certain plot developments that might come later in the story. This is an example of foreshadowing:
Sam thought about what the perpetrator said. It was nothing he hadn’t heard before; he’d been threatened many times. The light turned green and he swung around the corner. His eyes panned down the quiet block of single family homes and he knew something was wrong. His partner’s house was dark and so was his. Sam rolled up to the curb and turned off the engine. Leaving his cap on the passenger seat, he pulled out his service revolver, loaded a round into the chamber, and cautiously stepped out of the car.
Sam’s actions give a blatant description of what could happen next. The reader has been forewarned that something might be wrong. It could be a false alarm or it could be something devastating. Only time will tell.
The reader will fall into this trap easily and without suspicion. It’s perfectly natural for a man to enter a tense and dangerous situation with his gun drawn… but suppose he enters the foyer and the lights suddenly come on.
“Surprise! Happy birthday, Honey!” He finds a room full of neighbors in the living room, holding up drinks for a toast. The joy fades as they focus on Sam’s cocked 9mm pistol.
This scenario is a variation of foreshadowing called “misdirection” or otherwise known as a “Red Herring.” See http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Foreshadowing for more examples on the following:
o Premonition
o Master patterning
o Red herring (misdirection)
o Prophecy’s and omens
As an author, you control your world, along with everyone and everything in it. Never be afraid to experiment and push your muse to the limit. There are no limitations to your imagination.
Monday, January 2, 2012
Plagiarism – A Big Word for a Big Crime
What is Plagiarism?
by Joe Massingham
Volunteer Coordinator for Creative Writing Institute
Let’s not beat about the bush… plagiarism is theft dressed up. Just in case you aren’t familiar with the definition, it means ‘to take and use the thoughts, writing, inventions, etc of another person as your own,’ (OED)
People who plagiarize do so because they want to appear more learned, more educated, more professional than they are. It is usually a sign of insecurity or inferiority complex. Plagiarists long for recognition they cannot obtain on their own.
In most cases, though, their attempt at misrepresenting their abilities or knowledge backfires on them and they gain a reputation as dishonest and dishonorable writers.
Sometimes plagiarism happens accidentally. Researchers tend to rewrite things they recall in their sub-conscious. The brain spins into top gear, frantically searching for lost information. Little pieces seep back in until the writer finds fiendishly clever work and weaves it into the nest. Without conscious effort, plagiarism occurs while the relieved writer is humming, “What a good boy am I.”
Within weeks or months, a sneering critic points out that the idea is not original and the crime of plagiarism is exposed to the light of day. For honest writers, it is acutely embarrassing. The small band of deliberate plagiarists, however, knows no shame so they just curl their lip and take another sip of latte.
If you discover you’ve been unconsciously guilty of plagiarism, let the world know you are aware of the error. Rewrite your piece to eliminate the problem and take whatever steps necessary to avoid further incidents.
On the other hand, you may discover someone has plagiarized you. This is more likely to happen if your writing includes some sort of specialist information. If, for example, you’re an expert on bald eagles, keep an eye out for other material on your favorite topic. Here is the place to check: http://www.copyscape.com/. It will cost you a nickel to see if someone has ‘borrowed’ your expertise (but you must purchase them in lots of $5).
How many consecutive words can you print without rephrasing? Three. THREE. Anything more than that rings bells in high places.
There are various possible remedies if you have been plagiarized, but that’s a topic for another article. In the meantime, the best way to avoid being a plagiarist may be to remember Shakespeare’s words:
“This above all: to thine own self be true,
And it must follow, as the night the day,
Thou canst not then be false to any man.”
Visit http://www.creativewritinginstitute.com today to find more great tips.
by Joe Massingham
Volunteer Coordinator for Creative Writing Institute
Let’s not beat about the bush… plagiarism is theft dressed up. Just in case you aren’t familiar with the definition, it means ‘to take and use the thoughts, writing, inventions, etc of another person as your own,’ (OED)
People who plagiarize do so because they want to appear more learned, more educated, more professional than they are. It is usually a sign of insecurity or inferiority complex. Plagiarists long for recognition they cannot obtain on their own.
In most cases, though, their attempt at misrepresenting their abilities or knowledge backfires on them and they gain a reputation as dishonest and dishonorable writers.
Sometimes plagiarism happens accidentally. Researchers tend to rewrite things they recall in their sub-conscious. The brain spins into top gear, frantically searching for lost information. Little pieces seep back in until the writer finds fiendishly clever work and weaves it into the nest. Without conscious effort, plagiarism occurs while the relieved writer is humming, “What a good boy am I.”
Within weeks or months, a sneering critic points out that the idea is not original and the crime of plagiarism is exposed to the light of day. For honest writers, it is acutely embarrassing. The small band of deliberate plagiarists, however, knows no shame so they just curl their lip and take another sip of latte.
If you discover you’ve been unconsciously guilty of plagiarism, let the world know you are aware of the error. Rewrite your piece to eliminate the problem and take whatever steps necessary to avoid further incidents.
On the other hand, you may discover someone has plagiarized you. This is more likely to happen if your writing includes some sort of specialist information. If, for example, you’re an expert on bald eagles, keep an eye out for other material on your favorite topic. Here is the place to check: http://www.copyscape.com/. It will cost you a nickel to see if someone has ‘borrowed’ your expertise (but you must purchase them in lots of $5).
How many consecutive words can you print without rephrasing? Three. THREE. Anything more than that rings bells in high places.
There are various possible remedies if you have been plagiarized, but that’s a topic for another article. In the meantime, the best way to avoid being a plagiarist may be to remember Shakespeare’s words:
“This above all: to thine own self be true,
And it must follow, as the night the day,
Thou canst not then be false to any man.”
Visit http://www.creativewritinginstitute.com today to find more great tips.
Wednesday, December 21, 2011
Christmas Customs
Christmas Customs and Traditions by Shanna Wegrocki.
Let's take a brief break from writing and discuss a well-researched piece on Christmas world traditions.
Christmas tree lots are on the corners, lights are twinkling on houses, and decorations are everywhere you look, but this is one of the few holidays that is celebrated around the world.
China, for instance, celebrates by hanging paper lanterns, and crafting paper chains and flowers for their Christmas trees. They get a visit from Dun Che Lao Ren, (their version of Santa Claus).
India celebrates Bada Din (Big Day) with festivals and large feasts. Since they don’t have pine trees, they use mango or banana trees instead. For them, it’s a time of spring-cleaning and whitewashing their homes. Shopping and baking abound.
In Argentina and many South American countries, people celebrate by going to church and taking part in religious rituals. Families feast together and trade presents while celebrating the birth of Jesus. They thrive on dancing, caroling, and fireworks displays for twelve days, ending on Three Kings Day in January.
Swedes start Christmas festivities on December 13 with the Santa Lucia ceremony. They set up trees and decorate them with candies, straw ornaments, and small gnomes. Christmas Eve ends with a candlelight procession to church. The Christmas gnome, Tomte, (believed to live under the house), leaves gifts for the family.
Spain starts their holiday season with the feast of the Immaculate Conception on December 8th. The big cathedral in Seville hosts a ceremony that includes Los Seises, the dance of six, which is a ritual dance performed by ten boys in elaborate costumes. On Christmas Eve, known as Nochebuena, families feast together around the Nativity scene and light tiny oil lamps when the stars come out.
Germany starts their Christmas season even earlier, with St. Nicholas Day on December 6th. Children put out their shoes and if they’ve been good, they receive gifts, but if they’ve been bad, they can expect twigs. Given that the Christmas tree, as we know it, originated in Germany, it’s no surprise that the tree is a point of pride in many German homes. On Christmas Eve, they unveil it and serve a feast.
The French trade the Christmas tree for a Nativity scene and populate it with small, clay figurines called Santons or Little Saints, which local craftsmen prepare. They also serve Christmas cakes in the shape of a Yule log. On Christmas Eve, children leave wooden clogs out for Pere Noel to fill. Families attend midnight Mass and return home for a giant Christmas feast called Le Reveillon. In some areas of France, children get gifts on both St. Nicholas Day and Christmas. Adults usually exchange their gifts on New Year’s Day.
The Italian Christmas season starts with the Novena, nine days of special prayers and religious devotion. Children perform with carols and reciting poems to receive coins and musicians sing tributes to the Virgin Mary. Instead of writing letters to Santa, children write notes to their parents. Families often build a Presepio, their own replica of the manger where Jesus was born, and they worship around it. After fasting 24 hours before Christmas, they enjoy a lavish feast. In some places, they open gifts after midnight Mass, but most wait until after the Feast of Epiphany on January 6. That’s when Befana, an ugly witch, brings gifts on her broomstick. The legend of Befana says she missed seeing Jesus in the manger because she got lost, so now she goes house to house looking for Him, leaving gifts for good children and charcoal for bad ones.
In all probability, the closest to American tradition is Britain. It starts with Advent, four Sundays before Christmas. Instead of Santa Claus, Father Christmas brings presents. Children write letters to him and then toss them into the fireplace where he reads their requests in the smoke. The day after Christmas is Boxing Day, so called because people used to collect money in boxes made out of clay, which they distributed to the poor.
Most of America’s Christmas traditions trace back to Victorian times in England. Everything from Christmas stockings to “A Christmas Carol” originated there.
Christmas is an important holiday all over the world. Whether you’re decorating a tree or buying gifts, Christmas is the one holiday that transcends cultural differences and draws people together. Have a very Merry Christmas!
All writing courses are only $177 until the end of the year. Don't miss out on this great bargain at http://www.creativewritinginstitute.com.
Let's take a brief break from writing and discuss a well-researched piece on Christmas world traditions.
Christmas tree lots are on the corners, lights are twinkling on houses, and decorations are everywhere you look, but this is one of the few holidays that is celebrated around the world.
China, for instance, celebrates by hanging paper lanterns, and crafting paper chains and flowers for their Christmas trees. They get a visit from Dun Che Lao Ren, (their version of Santa Claus).
India celebrates Bada Din (Big Day) with festivals and large feasts. Since they don’t have pine trees, they use mango or banana trees instead. For them, it’s a time of spring-cleaning and whitewashing their homes. Shopping and baking abound.
In Argentina and many South American countries, people celebrate by going to church and taking part in religious rituals. Families feast together and trade presents while celebrating the birth of Jesus. They thrive on dancing, caroling, and fireworks displays for twelve days, ending on Three Kings Day in January.
Swedes start Christmas festivities on December 13 with the Santa Lucia ceremony. They set up trees and decorate them with candies, straw ornaments, and small gnomes. Christmas Eve ends with a candlelight procession to church. The Christmas gnome, Tomte, (believed to live under the house), leaves gifts for the family.
Spain starts their holiday season with the feast of the Immaculate Conception on December 8th. The big cathedral in Seville hosts a ceremony that includes Los Seises, the dance of six, which is a ritual dance performed by ten boys in elaborate costumes. On Christmas Eve, known as Nochebuena, families feast together around the Nativity scene and light tiny oil lamps when the stars come out.
Germany starts their Christmas season even earlier, with St. Nicholas Day on December 6th. Children put out their shoes and if they’ve been good, they receive gifts, but if they’ve been bad, they can expect twigs. Given that the Christmas tree, as we know it, originated in Germany, it’s no surprise that the tree is a point of pride in many German homes. On Christmas Eve, they unveil it and serve a feast.
The French trade the Christmas tree for a Nativity scene and populate it with small, clay figurines called Santons or Little Saints, which local craftsmen prepare. They also serve Christmas cakes in the shape of a Yule log. On Christmas Eve, children leave wooden clogs out for Pere Noel to fill. Families attend midnight Mass and return home for a giant Christmas feast called Le Reveillon. In some areas of France, children get gifts on both St. Nicholas Day and Christmas. Adults usually exchange their gifts on New Year’s Day.
The Italian Christmas season starts with the Novena, nine days of special prayers and religious devotion. Children perform with carols and reciting poems to receive coins and musicians sing tributes to the Virgin Mary. Instead of writing letters to Santa, children write notes to their parents. Families often build a Presepio, their own replica of the manger where Jesus was born, and they worship around it. After fasting 24 hours before Christmas, they enjoy a lavish feast. In some places, they open gifts after midnight Mass, but most wait until after the Feast of Epiphany on January 6. That’s when Befana, an ugly witch, brings gifts on her broomstick. The legend of Befana says she missed seeing Jesus in the manger because she got lost, so now she goes house to house looking for Him, leaving gifts for good children and charcoal for bad ones.
In all probability, the closest to American tradition is Britain. It starts with Advent, four Sundays before Christmas. Instead of Santa Claus, Father Christmas brings presents. Children write letters to him and then toss them into the fireplace where he reads their requests in the smoke. The day after Christmas is Boxing Day, so called because people used to collect money in boxes made out of clay, which they distributed to the poor.
Most of America’s Christmas traditions trace back to Victorian times in England. Everything from Christmas stockings to “A Christmas Carol” originated there.
Christmas is an important holiday all over the world. Whether you’re decorating a tree or buying gifts, Christmas is the one holiday that transcends cultural differences and draws people together. Have a very Merry Christmas!
All writing courses are only $177 until the end of the year. Don't miss out on this great bargain at http://www.creativewritinginstitute.com.
Thursday, December 15, 2011
CONTEST WINNERS ANNOUNCED
SHORT STORY CONTEST WINNERS
Thank you to our judges: Head judge - Jo Popek - and judges Mr. Lynn Carroll and Annie Evett. Without them, there would have been no contest. Many thanks! Here are their decisions for Creative Writing Institute's Third Annual Beginner's Writing Contest:
1st place: Secrets Best Kept by Diane Davis
2nd place: Annabell Hated Being Asian by Michelle Yu (age 15)
3rd place: Apples, Pumpkins, or Manure by Shirley Dilley
Honorable mentions: Helen Crall, Sneha Koilada, Shirley Dilley
Read 2nd place, 3rd place and honorable mention stories here:
http://www.cwinst.com/ContestWinners.php
And now for our first place winner's story in it's entirety...
SECRETS BEST KEPT by Diane Davis (See Diane's bio at the bottom)
Rachel pulled the last box out of her mother’s closet and set it on the bed. Putting her fists in the small of her back, she stretched her aching back and rolled her shoulders. With a sigh she opened the flaps. She had delayed long enough. The cleaning service was due this afternoon.A loud clang from the kitchen indicated her older sister, Sylvia, had things moving along in there. Packing up the debris from the life of a sixty-two-year-old woman was physically exhausting, but when she was your mother it was emotionally taxing too.
Rachel pulled a pink baby afghan out of the box and laid it aside. She didn’t know whose it was, but she and Sylvia would never have kids. Maybe she’d give it to the Cradle Guild at church. Next came a jumble of stuff. A tassel from a graduation cap, a Kewpie doll, an old Timex, a pair of baby shoes.
At the bottom of the box she found a small brown notebook bound with a thick rubber band. The cover had no writing on it, front or back. Rachel started to take off the rubber band, but hesitated. It felt wrong, digging through Mama’s personal things like this. She had been a private person, loving but reserved, even with her family. Now that she was gone, Rachel felt like she was violating some unwritten rule. But she couldn’t throw the notebook away without looking at it. After all, there may be something important in there. She pulled off the rubber band and opened the cover before she could change her mind.
In the upper right-hand corner of page one was what looked like a date:14 Juni, 1968. The page was crammed with line after line of her mother’s fluid cursive, but Rachel couldn’t understand a word of it because it was in—German? Did her mother speak German?
Flipping through the rest of the notebook, Rachel’s unease grew. She didn’t know what this meant, but she sensed it was bad. Why would Mama have a diary written in a language she never spoke in everyday life? Had she been hiding something?
Rachel’s first impulse was to show it to her sister. After all, Sylvia was thirteen years her senior—maybe she would remember a time when Mama spoke German. Rachel almost called out to her, but the words died unuttered. Her sister had taken Mama’s death hard. That’s why Rachel had the task of packing their mother’s room. Sylvia had finally managed to achieve a certain amount of calm. Showing her the notebook might send her on another crying jag. Besides, maybe it was nothing.
Slipping the notebook into her purse, she decided to find a translator. If it turned out to be harmless as she hoped, she would show it to her sister when the time was right.
* * *
Weeks passed. Rachel had forgotten about the notebook after she scanned the pages and emailed them to a college friend who knew a German language major. Now it was tucked away in the bottom drawer of her nightstand under a half-finished novel and a crossword book. Life went on.
The packet came on a Saturday. Rachel sat at the kitchen table staring at it, torn between the urge to burn it and curiosity over the contents. Once she opened it and read the translation, there would be no going back. Not knowing would drive her crazy, but did she want to deal with the revelations it might contain, good or bad?
Grabbing the packet, she tore it open and pulled out the loose pages. The cover letter was a courtly salutation followed by a polite request for payment, signed by the translator. Her hands shook as she laid it aside and started to read the text.
The first dozen pages related everyday anecdotes about Sylvia and Father, along with notes about her rosebushes, and various church activities. Rachel scanned them, charmed by the light tone of the entries. Her mother seemed to be happy in those days.
At page thirteen, the tone became dark and frightened and angry. Rachel’s reading pace slowed as she tried to comprehend the horrible things her mother had written. She reread portions, too stunned to take it all in. By the end, tears streamed down her face and sobs clawed at her throat. It was much worse than she had ever imagined.
Hilda didn’t know when the incest began, but she gradually became aware of subtle clues. Sylvia shrank from touching her father and avoided direct eye contact with everyone. She had always been shy, but every day she became more withdrawn. Her appetite decreased and she rarely smiled. Finally Hilda was so worried she took her to the doctor. That’s when she learned the depth of her husband’s depravity.
Twelve-year-old Sylvia was pregnant, and Hilda suspected her husband was the father. The family would never survive the shame. To be so young and unmarried and pregnant was bad enough, but to bear a child of incest was horrible. There was only one thing to do.
Hilda put the word out that she was pregnant then took Sylvia with her to stay with a friend in Phoenix until the baby was born. She told her friends that her doctor had recommended the drier climate so her asthma wouldn’t flare up and endanger the baby’s life. After the child was born, Sylvia and Hilda brought her home with nobody the wiser. Rachel grew up blissfully unaware that her loving older sister was her mother, and her mother was actually her grandmother.
Robert never touched Sylvia again, as far as Hilda could tell. Perhaps her threat to go to the police scared him into compliance. But it seemed his depravity only went dormant for a dozen years.
To her horror, she noticed that he began to pay special attention to Rachel. He touched her frequently and his hands lingered on her arm or back. He insisted she kiss him on the lips and he hugged her tight, often pulling her onto his lap. Hilda knew she had to do something before it was too late.
She couldn’t let history repeat itself.
Over the next few days she began to put digitalis in his food, gradually increasing the dose. Never one to go to the doctor, he stayed in bed, forcing fluid even though he kept vomiting, trying to sleep in spite of his splitting headache. Two days later he was dead of a heart attack.
Rachel laid the last page down. She stared at the wall as she struggled to find her balance in this new topsy-turvy paradigm. Her grandmother had killed her father to save her from incest, and her mother was alive. Why she wrote it down, and more importantly, why she wrote the whole tale in German were mysteries that had died with Hilda.
Her mother was alive! Smiling for the first time in hours, Rachel jumped up and rushed to the phone, but she put the receiver back after dialing a few numbers. She covered her mouth as a fresh round of tears rolled down her cheeks.
Sylvia had lived with the pain of this secret for years. Would it be more painful for her if she knew Rachel had learned the truth? Or would it be better to go on as sisters with a close, loving relationship?
Sinking back into her chair, she closed her eyes and took a deep, cleansing breath. Letting go of the tension, sadness and fear, she opened herself to accept everything the diary had revealed. She was still the same person she had been before reading Hilda’s words. There would be time to decide what to do with the knowledge later.
The phone interrupted her meditation. She checked the caller ID and her smile came through in her voice when she answered.
“Hello, Sylvia. I was just thinking about you.”
About the Author
Diane Davis, an Arizona native, is a happily married mother of two with a life-long passion for words. She's had ten short stories and an essay published in online ezines like Long Story Short, Menopause Press and FlashShots, and won first place in Phyllis Scott Publishing's short story contest. Diane's goal is to become a novelist.
____________________________________________________________
CHRISTMAS SALE on WRITING COURSES at http://www.creativewritinginstitute.com until Dec. 31, 2011. All courses now only $177. Eight weeks in length with your own private tutor. It just doesn't get any better than that! Payment plan available. See the site for more details.
Thank you to our judges: Head judge - Jo Popek - and judges Mr. Lynn Carroll and Annie Evett. Without them, there would have been no contest. Many thanks! Here are their decisions for Creative Writing Institute's Third Annual Beginner's Writing Contest:
1st place: Secrets Best Kept by Diane Davis
2nd place: Annabell Hated Being Asian by Michelle Yu (age 15)
3rd place: Apples, Pumpkins, or Manure by Shirley Dilley
Honorable mentions: Helen Crall, Sneha Koilada, Shirley Dilley
Read 2nd place, 3rd place and honorable mention stories here:
http://www.cwinst.com/ContestWinners.php
And now for our first place winner's story in it's entirety...
SECRETS BEST KEPT by Diane Davis (See Diane's bio at the bottom)
Rachel pulled the last box out of her mother’s closet and set it on the bed. Putting her fists in the small of her back, she stretched her aching back and rolled her shoulders. With a sigh she opened the flaps. She had delayed long enough. The cleaning service was due this afternoon.A loud clang from the kitchen indicated her older sister, Sylvia, had things moving along in there. Packing up the debris from the life of a sixty-two-year-old woman was physically exhausting, but when she was your mother it was emotionally taxing too.
Rachel pulled a pink baby afghan out of the box and laid it aside. She didn’t know whose it was, but she and Sylvia would never have kids. Maybe she’d give it to the Cradle Guild at church. Next came a jumble of stuff. A tassel from a graduation cap, a Kewpie doll, an old Timex, a pair of baby shoes.
At the bottom of the box she found a small brown notebook bound with a thick rubber band. The cover had no writing on it, front or back. Rachel started to take off the rubber band, but hesitated. It felt wrong, digging through Mama’s personal things like this. She had been a private person, loving but reserved, even with her family. Now that she was gone, Rachel felt like she was violating some unwritten rule. But she couldn’t throw the notebook away without looking at it. After all, there may be something important in there. She pulled off the rubber band and opened the cover before she could change her mind.
In the upper right-hand corner of page one was what looked like a date:14 Juni, 1968. The page was crammed with line after line of her mother’s fluid cursive, but Rachel couldn’t understand a word of it because it was in—German? Did her mother speak German?
Flipping through the rest of the notebook, Rachel’s unease grew. She didn’t know what this meant, but she sensed it was bad. Why would Mama have a diary written in a language she never spoke in everyday life? Had she been hiding something?
Rachel’s first impulse was to show it to her sister. After all, Sylvia was thirteen years her senior—maybe she would remember a time when Mama spoke German. Rachel almost called out to her, but the words died unuttered. Her sister had taken Mama’s death hard. That’s why Rachel had the task of packing their mother’s room. Sylvia had finally managed to achieve a certain amount of calm. Showing her the notebook might send her on another crying jag. Besides, maybe it was nothing.
Slipping the notebook into her purse, she decided to find a translator. If it turned out to be harmless as she hoped, she would show it to her sister when the time was right.
* * *
Weeks passed. Rachel had forgotten about the notebook after she scanned the pages and emailed them to a college friend who knew a German language major. Now it was tucked away in the bottom drawer of her nightstand under a half-finished novel and a crossword book. Life went on.
The packet came on a Saturday. Rachel sat at the kitchen table staring at it, torn between the urge to burn it and curiosity over the contents. Once she opened it and read the translation, there would be no going back. Not knowing would drive her crazy, but did she want to deal with the revelations it might contain, good or bad?
Grabbing the packet, she tore it open and pulled out the loose pages. The cover letter was a courtly salutation followed by a polite request for payment, signed by the translator. Her hands shook as she laid it aside and started to read the text.
The first dozen pages related everyday anecdotes about Sylvia and Father, along with notes about her rosebushes, and various church activities. Rachel scanned them, charmed by the light tone of the entries. Her mother seemed to be happy in those days.
At page thirteen, the tone became dark and frightened and angry. Rachel’s reading pace slowed as she tried to comprehend the horrible things her mother had written. She reread portions, too stunned to take it all in. By the end, tears streamed down her face and sobs clawed at her throat. It was much worse than she had ever imagined.
Hilda didn’t know when the incest began, but she gradually became aware of subtle clues. Sylvia shrank from touching her father and avoided direct eye contact with everyone. She had always been shy, but every day she became more withdrawn. Her appetite decreased and she rarely smiled. Finally Hilda was so worried she took her to the doctor. That’s when she learned the depth of her husband’s depravity.
Twelve-year-old Sylvia was pregnant, and Hilda suspected her husband was the father. The family would never survive the shame. To be so young and unmarried and pregnant was bad enough, but to bear a child of incest was horrible. There was only one thing to do.
Hilda put the word out that she was pregnant then took Sylvia with her to stay with a friend in Phoenix until the baby was born. She told her friends that her doctor had recommended the drier climate so her asthma wouldn’t flare up and endanger the baby’s life. After the child was born, Sylvia and Hilda brought her home with nobody the wiser. Rachel grew up blissfully unaware that her loving older sister was her mother, and her mother was actually her grandmother.
Robert never touched Sylvia again, as far as Hilda could tell. Perhaps her threat to go to the police scared him into compliance. But it seemed his depravity only went dormant for a dozen years.
To her horror, she noticed that he began to pay special attention to Rachel. He touched her frequently and his hands lingered on her arm or back. He insisted she kiss him on the lips and he hugged her tight, often pulling her onto his lap. Hilda knew she had to do something before it was too late.
She couldn’t let history repeat itself.
Over the next few days she began to put digitalis in his food, gradually increasing the dose. Never one to go to the doctor, he stayed in bed, forcing fluid even though he kept vomiting, trying to sleep in spite of his splitting headache. Two days later he was dead of a heart attack.
Rachel laid the last page down. She stared at the wall as she struggled to find her balance in this new topsy-turvy paradigm. Her grandmother had killed her father to save her from incest, and her mother was alive. Why she wrote it down, and more importantly, why she wrote the whole tale in German were mysteries that had died with Hilda.
Her mother was alive! Smiling for the first time in hours, Rachel jumped up and rushed to the phone, but she put the receiver back after dialing a few numbers. She covered her mouth as a fresh round of tears rolled down her cheeks.
Sylvia had lived with the pain of this secret for years. Would it be more painful for her if she knew Rachel had learned the truth? Or would it be better to go on as sisters with a close, loving relationship?
Sinking back into her chair, she closed her eyes and took a deep, cleansing breath. Letting go of the tension, sadness and fear, she opened herself to accept everything the diary had revealed. She was still the same person she had been before reading Hilda’s words. There would be time to decide what to do with the knowledge later.
The phone interrupted her meditation. She checked the caller ID and her smile came through in her voice when she answered.
“Hello, Sylvia. I was just thinking about you.”
About the Author
Diane Davis, an Arizona native, is a happily married mother of two with a life-long passion for words. She's had ten short stories and an essay published in online ezines like Long Story Short, Menopause Press and FlashShots, and won first place in Phyllis Scott Publishing's short story contest. Diane's goal is to become a novelist.
____________________________________________________________
CHRISTMAS SALE on WRITING COURSES at http://www.creativewritinginstitute.com until Dec. 31, 2011. All courses now only $177. Eight weeks in length with your own private tutor. It just doesn't get any better than that! Payment plan available. See the site for more details.
Monday, December 5, 2011
CHRISTMAS SALE – Every Writing Course $177 w/a PRIVATE TUTOR
CHRISTMAS WRITING SALE! $200 NOW $177 with a private tutor.
Sale ends December 31, 2011. Reserve your seat before classes fill up. Can’t afford the tuition? Buy on the payment plan – four payments of $50 every second week. You will receive a $23 REBATE in February or March.
*Practical Gifts for the Writer*
Writers the world around want relevant gifts to encourage their hearts, make creative writing easier, prevent writer’s block, and increase their stash of writing tools. Sit on Ho Ho’s knee and ask for these cool items:
1. A writing course, of course, at http://www.creativewritinginstitute.com.
2. The Chicago Manual of Style by University of Chicago, about $35 on Amazon.com, or The Elements of Style by William Strunk, Jr., $10 and up. These are excellent reference books. They will answer all your questions about grammar and give you guidance in literary composition. A must have for any writer.
3. The Writer’s Market – Learn the latest from editors and those in the know! This is the best marketing resource I’ve ever found. It’s easy to understand, easy to use, offers a variety of support tools, names the editors, and points you to the right market to sell your work. Ask for the online edition because they update it monthly whereas the book is updated yearly. Find it at writersmarket.com for $30-$40, depending on which one you choose. A must have for every selling writer!
4. The Writer Magazine – highly recommended. Stay up to date on trends at http://www.writermag.com/en/sitecore/content/Home/The%20Magazine/Current%20Issue.aspx
5. A writing journal to record the events of your life.
6. Business cards – tell Santa what color you would like and what you want them to say – or make your own on good card stock!
7. Personalized stationary for that “special” correspondence – or – make your own!
8. Great books on writing: Writing Down the Bones by Natalie Goldberg (for ideas and motivation); Bird by Bird: Some Instructions on Writing and Life by Anne Lamott (highly recommended); On Writing by Stephen King (half autobiography and half lessons for writers); On Writing Well, The Classic Guide to Writing Nonfiction by William Zinsser (lots of non-fiction writing tips). Don’t forget that you can buy used books on Amazon.com.
9. A ream of paper to print your creations (specify exactly what weight you want)
10. Printer ink
11. A gift certificate from a bookstore.
Get more writing tips in Creative Writing Institute’s newsletter, The Writer’s Choice, at http://www.creativewritinginstitute.com, and don’t forget our huge Christmas Sale.
Ho, ho, ho. MERRY CHRISTMAS!
Posted in writing tips | Tagged Christmas Sale, editing, publishing, romance, Writer's Resources, writers, writing, Writing Christmas gifts, Writing Sale, writing tips
Sale ends December 31, 2011. Reserve your seat before classes fill up. Can’t afford the tuition? Buy on the payment plan – four payments of $50 every second week. You will receive a $23 REBATE in February or March.
*Practical Gifts for the Writer*
Writers the world around want relevant gifts to encourage their hearts, make creative writing easier, prevent writer’s block, and increase their stash of writing tools. Sit on Ho Ho’s knee and ask for these cool items:
1. A writing course, of course, at http://www.creativewritinginstitute.com.
2. The Chicago Manual of Style by University of Chicago, about $35 on Amazon.com, or The Elements of Style by William Strunk, Jr., $10 and up. These are excellent reference books. They will answer all your questions about grammar and give you guidance in literary composition. A must have for any writer.
3. The Writer’s Market – Learn the latest from editors and those in the know! This is the best marketing resource I’ve ever found. It’s easy to understand, easy to use, offers a variety of support tools, names the editors, and points you to the right market to sell your work. Ask for the online edition because they update it monthly whereas the book is updated yearly. Find it at writersmarket.com for $30-$40, depending on which one you choose. A must have for every selling writer!
4. The Writer Magazine – highly recommended. Stay up to date on trends at http://www.writermag.com/en/sitecore/content/Home/The%20Magazine/Current%20Issue.aspx
5. A writing journal to record the events of your life.
6. Business cards – tell Santa what color you would like and what you want them to say – or make your own on good card stock!
7. Personalized stationary for that “special” correspondence – or – make your own!
8. Great books on writing: Writing Down the Bones by Natalie Goldberg (for ideas and motivation); Bird by Bird: Some Instructions on Writing and Life by Anne Lamott (highly recommended); On Writing by Stephen King (half autobiography and half lessons for writers); On Writing Well, The Classic Guide to Writing Nonfiction by William Zinsser (lots of non-fiction writing tips). Don’t forget that you can buy used books on Amazon.com.
9. A ream of paper to print your creations (specify exactly what weight you want)
10. Printer ink
11. A gift certificate from a bookstore.
Get more writing tips in Creative Writing Institute’s newsletter, The Writer’s Choice, at http://www.creativewritinginstitute.com, and don’t forget our huge Christmas Sale.
Ho, ho, ho. MERRY CHRISTMAS!
Posted in writing tips | Tagged Christmas Sale, editing, publishing, romance, Writer's Resources, writers, writing, Writing Christmas gifts, Writing Sale, writing tips
Thursday, October 13, 2011
Win a Short Story Contest with These Tips!
SHORT STORY CONTEST for BEGINNERS listed below... by Bob Bruggemann
If you want to win a short story contest, the first thing you must do is study the rules. Many submissions are disqualified because they don't meet all the requirements. If formatting guidelines have not been given, single space the text and indent the paragraph. If the rules state a maximum of 1000 words, a 1200-word story, however brilliant, will hit the trash pile. If the short story contest calls for G-rated material (which means no swearing, vulgarities, or erotica) and your entry contains just one swear word, it will be discarded.
Welcome to the judging world, where judges go strictly by the rules. Assuming you follow the guidelines, the judges will then look at these four elements:
• Originality
• Creativity
• Style
• Technique
Let’s look at each one and see what they mean.
Short story contest winners come from second, third, and tenth thoughts. Some contests give you a theme, such as, “Wedding Day.” What’s the first story idea that comes to mind? Whatever it is, forget it. You can bet everyone else will have thought of it, too. A large percentage of submissions will be so similar that the competition will be fierce.
Make your short story unique and the judges will love you. Come at it from a different point of view. Seek a new angle.
Don’t wrack your brain for an idea. Relax. Get your conscious, critical mind out of the way and allow ideas to bubble up from your subconscious. In other words, daydream.
Ask yourself who, what, when, where, why, how, and ‘what if?’ Let your train of thought go where it will. Before long, you’ll have an idea for a story that is different.
For example, what if a shy looking woman attended a wedding and sat in the back, all alone? At the reception, she avoided conversation. She partook of the food and drinks and then left. Back in her lonely, one room apartment she scanned the Forthcoming Marriages column in the local paper to see where her next free food and wine would come from. See? The ‘what if’ question can lead you down original alleys.
In short story contests, you’ll never wrong with the KISS method: Keep It Simple, Sweetie! Don’t try to impress the judges with $3 words. Like any other reader, they want a story that is readable and absorbing.
Every sentence must move the story forward. The reader doesn’t want flowery descriptions of a rose garden in the moonlight. He/she wants to know what the girl is doing there at two in the morning and what will happen next. Stick to the point.
A short story contest calls for three distinct parts: the beginning, middle, and end. It's not as easy as it sounds.
The beginning introduces the main character and what the short story is about. The middle develops the theme and keeps the reader hooked. The ending must be believable, resolve the problems, and leave the reader satisfied.
Above all, don’t overlook simple formatting rules.
• Make a new paragraph for every new speaker
• Single space your short story and indent paragraphs
• Run the spellchecker!
• Watch your punctuation
And Finally…
If you don’t write an original entry for a short story contest, at least rewrite it to fit. For example, Creative Writing Institute’s contest is G-rated, which means no swearing or vulgar language. We’ve already received entries that contain good stories but the author probably didn’t cull out swear words from a story they had already written so it won’t be eligible. What a shame. Make sure your entry fits the rules.
This is short story contest is especially for beginners and the first thing the writer must learn is that judges go strictly by the book. See the rules here and abide by them: http://www.creativewritinginstitute.com. Above all, have fun! First prize wins $$ OR a FREE Writing Course!
If you want to win a short story contest, the first thing you must do is study the rules. Many submissions are disqualified because they don't meet all the requirements. If formatting guidelines have not been given, single space the text and indent the paragraph. If the rules state a maximum of 1000 words, a 1200-word story, however brilliant, will hit the trash pile. If the short story contest calls for G-rated material (which means no swearing, vulgarities, or erotica) and your entry contains just one swear word, it will be discarded.
Welcome to the judging world, where judges go strictly by the rules. Assuming you follow the guidelines, the judges will then look at these four elements:
• Originality
• Creativity
• Style
• Technique
Let’s look at each one and see what they mean.
- Originality
Short story contest winners come from second, third, and tenth thoughts. Some contests give you a theme, such as, “Wedding Day.” What’s the first story idea that comes to mind? Whatever it is, forget it. You can bet everyone else will have thought of it, too. A large percentage of submissions will be so similar that the competition will be fierce.
Make your short story unique and the judges will love you. Come at it from a different point of view. Seek a new angle.
- Creativity
Don’t wrack your brain for an idea. Relax. Get your conscious, critical mind out of the way and allow ideas to bubble up from your subconscious. In other words, daydream.
Ask yourself who, what, when, where, why, how, and ‘what if?’ Let your train of thought go where it will. Before long, you’ll have an idea for a story that is different.
For example, what if a shy looking woman attended a wedding and sat in the back, all alone? At the reception, she avoided conversation. She partook of the food and drinks and then left. Back in her lonely, one room apartment she scanned the Forthcoming Marriages column in the local paper to see where her next free food and wine would come from. See? The ‘what if’ question can lead you down original alleys.
- Style
In short story contests, you’ll never wrong with the KISS method: Keep It Simple, Sweetie! Don’t try to impress the judges with $3 words. Like any other reader, they want a story that is readable and absorbing.
Every sentence must move the story forward. The reader doesn’t want flowery descriptions of a rose garden in the moonlight. He/she wants to know what the girl is doing there at two in the morning and what will happen next. Stick to the point.
- Technique
A short story contest calls for three distinct parts: the beginning, middle, and end. It's not as easy as it sounds.
The beginning introduces the main character and what the short story is about. The middle develops the theme and keeps the reader hooked. The ending must be believable, resolve the problems, and leave the reader satisfied.
Above all, don’t overlook simple formatting rules.
• Make a new paragraph for every new speaker
• Single space your short story and indent paragraphs
• Run the spellchecker!
• Watch your punctuation
And Finally…
If you don’t write an original entry for a short story contest, at least rewrite it to fit. For example, Creative Writing Institute’s contest is G-rated, which means no swearing or vulgar language. We’ve already received entries that contain good stories but the author probably didn’t cull out swear words from a story they had already written so it won’t be eligible. What a shame. Make sure your entry fits the rules.
This is short story contest is especially for beginners and the first thing the writer must learn is that judges go strictly by the book. See the rules here and abide by them: http://www.creativewritinginstitute.com. Above all, have fun! First prize wins $$ OR a FREE Writing Course!
Friday, October 7, 2011
Short Story Titles for Competitions and Contests
First Impressions for Short Story Competition
by Hugh Wilson
As a reader, what is the first thing you look at in a short story? The title. Does it appeal to you? Does it arouse your curiosity enough to want to read the opening lines? If the title doesn’t grab you, you’ll look for something more interesting.
Short story contest judges are readers, too. The title is the first indication of your skill and creativity so choose one that will attract the judges – one that will make them want to read it again. The title is important in a short story competition. Here are some pointers:
• Make it Short and Fitting
Make it easy to remember, not more than four or five words. It should give the reader a clue about the tone and mood. For instance, it’s obvious that Dial M for Murder is going to be something creepy involving murder and a telephone, and Lady Chatterley’s Lover revolves around another man.
• Not too revealing
But a short story title shouldn’t give away too much, especially the ending. For example, Crime Doesn’t Pay tells the reader that the bad guy gets his comeuppance in the end, so why bother to read the story?
• Re-cycle existing phrases
Well known literary works can provide memorable titles. Steinbeck’s Grapes of Wrath, and Hemingway’s The Sun Also Rises stem from the Bible.
British author H.E. Bates’, The Darling Buds of May, (a line from a Shakespeare sonnet), evokes inviting images of life in the countryside.
Another method is to twist well-known phrases or sayings such as Live and Let Die, and You Only Live Twice.
• Just names
Some short story titles use names of people or places, so let’s make up a couple. Deborah’s Secret would surely make you rub your hands in anticipation, while Florida Frolics might suggest a lighthearted tale of fun and games on vacation in the Everglades.
• Let the Short Story Name Itself
A short story can name itself by extracting dialogue, a memorable line, or a couple of words that capture the mood. Harper Lee’s To Kill a Mockingbird, and The Eagle Has Landed by Jack Higgins are such titles.
• Research Your Title for Short Story Competition
There is no copyright on titles, but it’s worth a quick search to make sure yours is not identical to a well-known story or one that has recently won a short story contest. If it is, change it slightly.
These are just a few ideas to get your mind thinking of different ways to dream up a short story title.
Study the titles that have won recent contests and, of course, read the stories to see what made them stand out from the rest. You might be the next short story contest winner.
Please click on "Share This" and "Like" below to help us spread the word.
More great writing tips and short story contest rules at http://www.creativewritinginstitute.com. Ends October 20, 2011. Hurry! First place wins a $$$ price (or) FREE writing course.
by Hugh Wilson
As a reader, what is the first thing you look at in a short story? The title. Does it appeal to you? Does it arouse your curiosity enough to want to read the opening lines? If the title doesn’t grab you, you’ll look for something more interesting.
Short story contest judges are readers, too. The title is the first indication of your skill and creativity so choose one that will attract the judges – one that will make them want to read it again. The title is important in a short story competition. Here are some pointers:
• Make it Short and Fitting
Make it easy to remember, not more than four or five words. It should give the reader a clue about the tone and mood. For instance, it’s obvious that Dial M for Murder is going to be something creepy involving murder and a telephone, and Lady Chatterley’s Lover revolves around another man.
• Not too revealing
But a short story title shouldn’t give away too much, especially the ending. For example, Crime Doesn’t Pay tells the reader that the bad guy gets his comeuppance in the end, so why bother to read the story?
• Re-cycle existing phrases
Well known literary works can provide memorable titles. Steinbeck’s Grapes of Wrath, and Hemingway’s The Sun Also Rises stem from the Bible.
British author H.E. Bates’, The Darling Buds of May, (a line from a Shakespeare sonnet), evokes inviting images of life in the countryside.
Another method is to twist well-known phrases or sayings such as Live and Let Die, and You Only Live Twice.
• Just names
Some short story titles use names of people or places, so let’s make up a couple. Deborah’s Secret would surely make you rub your hands in anticipation, while Florida Frolics might suggest a lighthearted tale of fun and games on vacation in the Everglades.
• Let the Short Story Name Itself
A short story can name itself by extracting dialogue, a memorable line, or a couple of words that capture the mood. Harper Lee’s To Kill a Mockingbird, and The Eagle Has Landed by Jack Higgins are such titles.
• Research Your Title for Short Story Competition
There is no copyright on titles, but it’s worth a quick search to make sure yours is not identical to a well-known story or one that has recently won a short story contest. If it is, change it slightly.
These are just a few ideas to get your mind thinking of different ways to dream up a short story title.
Study the titles that have won recent contests and, of course, read the stories to see what made them stand out from the rest. You might be the next short story contest winner.
Please click on "Share This" and "Like" below to help us spread the word.
More great writing tips and short story contest rules at http://www.creativewritinginstitute.com. Ends October 20, 2011. Hurry! First place wins a $$$ price (or) FREE writing course.
Saturday, October 1, 2011
Writing for Short Story Contests - Beginner's Contest Listed Below
Entering Short Story Contests by Bob Bruggemann
Why enter a short story contest? One answer is to win prizes and services, but the primary reason is for exposure and recognition. It’s the next best thing to getting the entry published.
Some short story contests make submissions public. On other sites, only the winning stories are displayed. Either way, your work will appear before an audience. In rare instances, you may even receive feedback on it.
Short story contests can be scary, as it puts your work up for close inspection. It’s hard to be objective with your own writing. By the time you read and reread the same piece, your mind slips into a surreal fantasy and literally supplies missing words. Get a second or third set of eyes to proof your material and give you a report.
• Receive prizes
• Receive recognition for your labor
• Get Exposure
• Get Reviews
Don’t fear rejection. Keep on submitting. Don’t give up! Check out this SHORT STORY CONTEST for BEGINNERS ONLY at http://www.creativewritinginstitute.com. (Ends October 20, 2011.)
Short Story Contest Parameters:
• Guidelines (always stay within them)
• Some short story contests use prompts
• Content is first and foremost
Note: Always read the submission guidelines carefully and abide by them or your entry will be discarded as ineligible.
Have Fun
Short story contests immediately connect you with authors and avid readers. They have a unique talent for picking a story apart. A good writing forum will provide you with clear and concise feedback about your work and suggestions to improve it.
• Get your work read, even if it doesn’t win.
• Read your reviews and see where you can improve
• Grow a hard shell. Don’t get hurt feelings. Rewrite the piece and submit it again.
The absolute best part of short story contests is to let your imagination run free. In real life, you have so little control of what is around you, but when you write, you control the story, its inhabitants, and the surroundings. It is your own little world and you’re the king.
Use short story contest opportunities to sharpen your skills and don’t forget to check out this short story contest for beginners. It’s a small contest and your chance of winning is good. First place will receive a cash prize or a free writing course. http://www.creativewritinginstitute.com
Remember – FOLLOW THE GUIDELINES or your entry will be discarded.
Why enter a short story contest? One answer is to win prizes and services, but the primary reason is for exposure and recognition. It’s the next best thing to getting the entry published.
Some short story contests make submissions public. On other sites, only the winning stories are displayed. Either way, your work will appear before an audience. In rare instances, you may even receive feedback on it.
Short story contests can be scary, as it puts your work up for close inspection. It’s hard to be objective with your own writing. By the time you read and reread the same piece, your mind slips into a surreal fantasy and literally supplies missing words. Get a second or third set of eyes to proof your material and give you a report.
• Receive prizes
• Receive recognition for your labor
• Get Exposure
• Get Reviews
Don’t fear rejection. Keep on submitting. Don’t give up! Check out this SHORT STORY CONTEST for BEGINNERS ONLY at http://www.creativewritinginstitute.com. (Ends October 20, 2011.)
Short Story Contest Parameters:
• Guidelines (always stay within them)
• Some short story contests use prompts
• Content is first and foremost
Note: Always read the submission guidelines carefully and abide by them or your entry will be discarded as ineligible.
Have Fun
Short story contests immediately connect you with authors and avid readers. They have a unique talent for picking a story apart. A good writing forum will provide you with clear and concise feedback about your work and suggestions to improve it.
• Get your work read, even if it doesn’t win.
• Read your reviews and see where you can improve
• Grow a hard shell. Don’t get hurt feelings. Rewrite the piece and submit it again.
The absolute best part of short story contests is to let your imagination run free. In real life, you have so little control of what is around you, but when you write, you control the story, its inhabitants, and the surroundings. It is your own little world and you’re the king.
Use short story contest opportunities to sharpen your skills and don’t forget to check out this short story contest for beginners. It’s a small contest and your chance of winning is good. First place will receive a cash prize or a free writing course. http://www.creativewritinginstitute.com
Remember – FOLLOW THE GUIDELINES or your entry will be discarded.
Saturday, September 17, 2011
SHORT STORY CONTEST for BEGINNERS
Third Annual Beginner's Short Story Contest
A contest that is truly for beginner's only! If you have been fortunate enough to sell a book or a short story, congratulations - but you don't qualify for this contest. If you have self-published, you do qualify. This is an honor system.
RULES:
1. Any genre (Horror, Fantasy, Sci-Fi, Drama, Children, etc.)
2. 1,000 - 1,750 words
3. There is no entry fee, but since Creative Writing Institute is a non-profit charity that sponsors cancer patients in writing courses, we're asking entrants to donate $1 - $5 donations through credit card or PayPal at http://creativewritinginstitute.com/donate.php. If you can't donate, you're still welcome to enter.
4. Short Story rights remain the property of the author
5. Entries must be G-rated. That means no swearing or vulgarities.
6. Contest ends midnight, USA Eastern Standard Time, October 20, 2011
7. Mail to head judge, jopopek@gmail.com
8. Put WRITING CONTEST in the subject line
9. Entries will be judged on originality, creativity, style, and technique
10. NOT following instructions may lead to disqualification
11. Up to two entries per person
12. Winners will be notified by email on or before December 15, 2011.
Prizes: 1st place winner will receive cash (up to $100, depending on donations received) OR a free, tutored writing course at Creative Writing Institute, valued at $200. In addition, the winner will receive two books, Word Magic by Cindy Rogers and an autographed copy of Word Trippers by Barbara McNichol. Our thanks go to both Cindy and Barbara for making these prizes available. Winning entry will be published on http://www.creativewritinginstitute.com and our blogs, along with the winner's bio and picture, if provided.
Second place: Two free tutoring sessions with CEO and Founder, Deborah Owen, and a copy of Word Magic by Cindy Rogers. Winner's name will be published on http://www.creativewritinginstitute.com and its blogs and we will provide a link to your story.
Third place: One free tutoring session with CEO and Founder, Deborah Owen, and an autographed copy of Word Trippers by Barbara McNichol. Winner's name will be published on http://www.creativewritinginstitute.com and its blogs and we will provide a link to your story.
Honorable mentions: Names will be published on http://www.creativewritinginstitute.com and its blogs and we will provide a link to your story.
This is a small contest and your chances of winning are good. Enter now!
If you haven't signed up for The Writer's Choice Newsletter, which is chock full of writing tips, you can do that here: http://www.creativewritinginstitute.com. Fear not - we won't spam you.
A contest that is truly for beginner's only! If you have been fortunate enough to sell a book or a short story, congratulations - but you don't qualify for this contest. If you have self-published, you do qualify. This is an honor system.
RULES:
1. Any genre (Horror, Fantasy, Sci-Fi, Drama, Children, etc.)
2. 1,000 - 1,750 words
3. There is no entry fee, but since Creative Writing Institute is a non-profit charity that sponsors cancer patients in writing courses, we're asking entrants to donate $1 - $5 donations through credit card or PayPal at http://creativewritinginstitute.com/donate.php. If you can't donate, you're still welcome to enter.
4. Short Story rights remain the property of the author
5. Entries must be G-rated. That means no swearing or vulgarities.
6. Contest ends midnight, USA Eastern Standard Time, October 20, 2011
7. Mail to head judge, jopopek@gmail.com
8. Put WRITING CONTEST in the subject line
9. Entries will be judged on originality, creativity, style, and technique
10. NOT following instructions may lead to disqualification
11. Up to two entries per person
12. Winners will be notified by email on or before December 15, 2011.
Prizes: 1st place winner will receive cash (up to $100, depending on donations received) OR a free, tutored writing course at Creative Writing Institute, valued at $200. In addition, the winner will receive two books, Word Magic by Cindy Rogers and an autographed copy of Word Trippers by Barbara McNichol. Our thanks go to both Cindy and Barbara for making these prizes available. Winning entry will be published on http://www.creativewritinginstitute.com and our blogs, along with the winner's bio and picture, if provided.
Second place: Two free tutoring sessions with CEO and Founder, Deborah Owen, and a copy of Word Magic by Cindy Rogers. Winner's name will be published on http://www.creativewritinginstitute.com and its blogs and we will provide a link to your story.
Third place: One free tutoring session with CEO and Founder, Deborah Owen, and an autographed copy of Word Trippers by Barbara McNichol. Winner's name will be published on http://www.creativewritinginstitute.com and its blogs and we will provide a link to your story.
Honorable mentions: Names will be published on http://www.creativewritinginstitute.com and its blogs and we will provide a link to your story.
This is a small contest and your chances of winning are good. Enter now!
If you haven't signed up for The Writer's Choice Newsletter, which is chock full of writing tips, you can do that here: http://www.creativewritinginstitute.com. Fear not - we won't spam you.
Monday, September 5, 2011
Journaling with Your Writing Voice
Use Your Writing Voice to Journal
by guest blogger, Annie Evett
Journaling gives a writer the opportunity to exercise their voice. We all have a story to tell. What better way to express your writing voice than through journaling?
Journal your observations on everyday life. Don't shy away from committing your words to page because you feel your contribution to life is unimportant. What is pedestrian to you will most certainly be exotic to at least a small audience somewhere on the globe.
• Let your writing voice out. Journal first. Worry about getting a publisher or a book deal later. Write to just prove you can do it.
• We are surrounded by those who talk about books they want to write. There are far fewer individuals who actually complete that vision. Write more, talk less.
• Accept your past and all of your experiences as key to shaping who you are. Instead of comparing your writing voice to others, embrace where it is taking you.
• Write from your whole self and from your passions. A clear writing voice will reach your audience. Flavor it with humor. Learn to laugh at yourself. If you like to talk about new ideas, liberally sprinkle them in your writing. Anything less will be unsustainable along your journey as a writer.
• Start journaling the passions and perceptions of events that shape your existence. Do more than write a series of personal events. Put effort into your writing.
A myriad of venues that simply includes surroundings and experiences can stop creative flow. Similarly, a writing voice that holds no structure or theme leaves the audience little to identify with. Even when you write only for yourself, let your writing voice shine.
Can anyone write or is it only for the chosen few?
Perhaps it is for the few that choose to hone their writing voice.
by guest blogger, Annie Evett
Journaling gives a writer the opportunity to exercise their voice. We all have a story to tell. What better way to express your writing voice than through journaling?
Journal your observations on everyday life. Don't shy away from committing your words to page because you feel your contribution to life is unimportant. What is pedestrian to you will most certainly be exotic to at least a small audience somewhere on the globe.
• Let your writing voice out. Journal first. Worry about getting a publisher or a book deal later. Write to just prove you can do it.
• We are surrounded by those who talk about books they want to write. There are far fewer individuals who actually complete that vision. Write more, talk less.
• Accept your past and all of your experiences as key to shaping who you are. Instead of comparing your writing voice to others, embrace where it is taking you.
• Write from your whole self and from your passions. A clear writing voice will reach your audience. Flavor it with humor. Learn to laugh at yourself. If you like to talk about new ideas, liberally sprinkle them in your writing. Anything less will be unsustainable along your journey as a writer.
• Start journaling the passions and perceptions of events that shape your existence. Do more than write a series of personal events. Put effort into your writing.
A myriad of venues that simply includes surroundings and experiences can stop creative flow. Similarly, a writing voice that holds no structure or theme leaves the audience little to identify with. Even when you write only for yourself, let your writing voice shine.
Can anyone write or is it only for the chosen few?
Perhaps it is for the few that choose to hone their writing voice.
Saturday, August 13, 2011
HOW TO PAINT A STORY
STORY PAINTING by guest blogger Sandra Tooley
Painting a story is a lot like painting a picture. My sister is an artist. When she paints a picture of Santa Claus, you can almost smell the smoke coming from his pipe. I happened to be there when she was painting flowerpots for a Christmas bizarre. As I watched, I realized her process wasn’t much different from the one I use to write a book. You can use the same process to write a story.
Step One: Sketching the Story
First, the basics. She painted the terra cotta pot with an undercoat of white. She sketched a scene of a brick house, Christmas tree, a clothesline with Santa’s long underwear hanging from it, a birdhouse, shrubbery, and a deer.
When I start writing, I sketch my basic plot. I usually know the beginning, the end, and several action points I’ll include. Then I let the characters write the story going from Point A to B and C. It’s only a sketch so I write whatever comes to mind without agonizing over whether a scene is working.
Step Two: Add Details to the Story
When Sis completes her sketch, she erases and makes changes, such as adding ornaments to the tree, another plant, and the face of an elf in the window.
When I finish my initial draft, I read through to see what details are added, discover what doesn’t move the story along and what can be deleted. Sometimes I eliminate unnecessary characters or even whole chapters that aren’t essential to the plot.
Step Three: Add Color to Your Story
When Sis is ready to paint, she adds color to her characters and scenery.
When I write, I don’t take time to research. Instead, I type two question marks ?? where I need information. Then I print out all the pages with ?? on them and start picking expert’s brains: my brother, the lawyer; my friend, the nurse; my friend’s husband, the cop. I use a Forensics for Dummies book and of course, the Internet.
Step Four: Add More Story Color
My sister constantly does touches up on her art. She has a way with shading colors that makes everything look real. Santa’s long johns actually look worn, the trees and plants seem to grow in front of your eyes, and the snow looks real enough to cause a shiver.
This is the point where I make sure my characters have a distinct voice, that I have engaged at least two senses on each page, that my setting gives the readers a sense of place, and that the crime and solution are logical.
Step Five: The Critical Eye of Story Telling
This is when Sis turns on the critical eye. She knows the sections that are complete and which ones need more work.
Writers can’t see their own mistakes as clearly as artists can so this is where I pass my manuscript off to the editor or one of my friends. They’re great at catching mistakes that I miss because I’ve been looking at the words for months on end and don’t realize my character had brown eyes in chapter two and blue eyes in chapter twenty. Once I get my friends’ feedback and my editor’s comments, it’s time to make the final changes. Voila! I’m done.
You can comment without signing in. Please do. For more great writing tips, get our newsletter at http://www.creativewritinginstitute.com.
* Sandra Tooley’s Sam Casey Series combines mystery with paranormal (think Medium with a Native American twist). Her Chase Dagger Series combines mystery with fantasy. Dagger takes on cases that are more like X-Files and his assistant is a Shape Shifter (Critics call it MacGyver meets Dark Angel). You can find Sandra’s books in print, audio, and ebook formats. Check out her website at www.sdtooley.com. Her email is sdtooley@sbcglobal.net.
Painting a story is a lot like painting a picture. My sister is an artist. When she paints a picture of Santa Claus, you can almost smell the smoke coming from his pipe. I happened to be there when she was painting flowerpots for a Christmas bizarre. As I watched, I realized her process wasn’t much different from the one I use to write a book. You can use the same process to write a story.
Step One: Sketching the Story
First, the basics. She painted the terra cotta pot with an undercoat of white. She sketched a scene of a brick house, Christmas tree, a clothesline with Santa’s long underwear hanging from it, a birdhouse, shrubbery, and a deer.
When I start writing, I sketch my basic plot. I usually know the beginning, the end, and several action points I’ll include. Then I let the characters write the story going from Point A to B and C. It’s only a sketch so I write whatever comes to mind without agonizing over whether a scene is working.
Step Two: Add Details to the Story
When Sis completes her sketch, she erases and makes changes, such as adding ornaments to the tree, another plant, and the face of an elf in the window.
When I finish my initial draft, I read through to see what details are added, discover what doesn’t move the story along and what can be deleted. Sometimes I eliminate unnecessary characters or even whole chapters that aren’t essential to the plot.
Step Three: Add Color to Your Story
When Sis is ready to paint, she adds color to her characters and scenery.
When I write, I don’t take time to research. Instead, I type two question marks ?? where I need information. Then I print out all the pages with ?? on them and start picking expert’s brains: my brother, the lawyer; my friend, the nurse; my friend’s husband, the cop. I use a Forensics for Dummies book and of course, the Internet.
Step Four: Add More Story Color
My sister constantly does touches up on her art. She has a way with shading colors that makes everything look real. Santa’s long johns actually look worn, the trees and plants seem to grow in front of your eyes, and the snow looks real enough to cause a shiver.
This is the point where I make sure my characters have a distinct voice, that I have engaged at least two senses on each page, that my setting gives the readers a sense of place, and that the crime and solution are logical.
Step Five: The Critical Eye of Story Telling
This is when Sis turns on the critical eye. She knows the sections that are complete and which ones need more work.
Writers can’t see their own mistakes as clearly as artists can so this is where I pass my manuscript off to the editor or one of my friends. They’re great at catching mistakes that I miss because I’ve been looking at the words for months on end and don’t realize my character had brown eyes in chapter two and blue eyes in chapter twenty. Once I get my friends’ feedback and my editor’s comments, it’s time to make the final changes. Voila! I’m done.
You can comment without signing in. Please do. For more great writing tips, get our newsletter at http://www.creativewritinginstitute.com.
* Sandra Tooley’s Sam Casey Series combines mystery with paranormal (think Medium with a Native American twist). Her Chase Dagger Series combines mystery with fantasy. Dagger takes on cases that are more like X-Files and his assistant is a Shape Shifter (Critics call it MacGyver meets Dark Angel). You can find Sandra’s books in print, audio, and ebook formats. Check out her website at www.sdtooley.com. Her email is sdtooley@sbcglobal.net.
Friday, August 5, 2011
How to Get Published
Get Published Right Away
Where do I submit my stuff?
By guest blogger, Annie Evett
Where do new writers get published? You’ve just finished writing material that you think is pretty good, but you’re not sure where to send it. Most writers begin their career by submitting to free publications such as e-anthologies (ebooks or pdfs available online), e-zines (online magazines or newsletters)or local newspapers. The thrill of seeing your name in the byline is reward enough, but accepted and published work also reinforces the belief that your work has some quality. It exposes your talents to a new audience, boosts your ego, and may pave the way to paid work.
When seeking publication, be sure to:
1. Check your work for:
• Grammatical and spelling errors
• Beta read by at least two other people. (Beta readers are people outside your immediate family or friend circle and who are more likely to give you constructive feedback. Their role is to give an impression of how your piece will be received by the audience you’re targeting. Beta readers don’t edit or correct your piece. Try to find someone with some writing experience.)
• Act upon their feedback
• Rewrite to perfection
• Submit to an editor (know the editor’s name)
2. Craft a cover letter and a short biography (up to 50 words)
3. Submit a publicity photo (clear head shot) of yourself in electronic format. Most publications will include this in your byline at the end of your piece.
4. Write a publishing goal for yourself and make a specific date. (Answer such questions as what is most important to you? To be paid? How much? To be published? Be recognized? Why? By whom?) Post your goal in a prominent place near your writing area. These answers will arm you with a basic level of professionalism.
Data bases of markets open to emerging writers:
Duotropes http://www.duotrope.com/
Worldwide Freelance http://www.worldwidefreelance.com/
Fiction Writing Markets http://www.writerswrite.com/fiction/markets.htm
The Short Story http://www.theshortstory.org.uk/prizes/
Writers Weekly http://www.writersweekly.com/markets_and_jobs.php
Womagwriter http://womagwriter.blogspot.com This blog highlights magazines that accept short story submissions across several countries. They also provide writers guidelines and the blog will keep you up to date with what’s happening in the market.
Also Open for Submissions:
Untitled http://www.untitledonline.com.au Fiction of any genre - 350 words to 5000 words.
Ether books - http://www.etherbooks.co.uk/ - open to any genre in fiction. Specifically looking at short stories or serial stories. This platform publishes to mobile devices and are available through itunes.
Global Short Stories http://www.globalshortstories.net - all genres all themes - short stories under 2000 words.
Noble Romance - https://www.nobleromance.com Sweethearts (no sex or sexual overtones) and Erotica (more saucy)- Short Stories– 3-10K words. Novellas 10,001-29,999K, 30+K words and up for novels
Wet Ink - http://www.wetink.com.au A magazine of new writing - open to fiction (including genre fiction), creative non-fiction, poetry, memoir, essays and opinion pieces
eFiction http://authors.efictionmag.com/ online monthly magazine - all genres
Red Asylum - http://theredasylum.webs.com/ Quarterly online magazine, devoted to the discovery and publication of dark and twisted stories.
Lyrical Press http://www.lyricalpress.com Seeking erotica, romance, and urban fantasy short stories (15K) through to novels
Got your stories posted on your site and want some readers? These sites are community-run listings of online fiction where you can post a link to your stories and go and check out other writers work. This is particularly handy in order to get feedback from other writers and build your own support group.
Webfiction http://webfictionguide.com/
Write Anythings Fiction Friday http://wa.emergent-publishing.com/writing-prompts/
Mad Utopia http://MadUtopia.com/blog/fridayflash/what-is-fridayflash/
Make sure you follow the submission guidelines carefully - and good luck!
For more great tips, get The Writer’s Choice Newsletter at http://www.creativewritinginstitute.com. Please take a moment to rate this article and make a comment. Bookmark us! Happy day!
Where do I submit my stuff?
By guest blogger, Annie Evett
Where do new writers get published? You’ve just finished writing material that you think is pretty good, but you’re not sure where to send it. Most writers begin their career by submitting to free publications such as e-anthologies (ebooks or pdfs available online), e-zines (online magazines or newsletters)or local newspapers. The thrill of seeing your name in the byline is reward enough, but accepted and published work also reinforces the belief that your work has some quality. It exposes your talents to a new audience, boosts your ego, and may pave the way to paid work.
When seeking publication, be sure to:
1. Check your work for:
• Grammatical and spelling errors
• Beta read by at least two other people. (Beta readers are people outside your immediate family or friend circle and who are more likely to give you constructive feedback. Their role is to give an impression of how your piece will be received by the audience you’re targeting. Beta readers don’t edit or correct your piece. Try to find someone with some writing experience.)
• Act upon their feedback
• Rewrite to perfection
• Submit to an editor (know the editor’s name)
2. Craft a cover letter and a short biography (up to 50 words)
3. Submit a publicity photo (clear head shot) of yourself in electronic format. Most publications will include this in your byline at the end of your piece.
4. Write a publishing goal for yourself and make a specific date. (Answer such questions as what is most important to you? To be paid? How much? To be published? Be recognized? Why? By whom?) Post your goal in a prominent place near your writing area. These answers will arm you with a basic level of professionalism.
Data bases of markets open to emerging writers:
Duotropes http://www.duotrope.com/
Worldwide Freelance http://www.worldwidefreelance.com/
Fiction Writing Markets http://www.writerswrite.com/fiction/markets.htm
The Short Story http://www.theshortstory.org.uk/prizes/
Writers Weekly http://www.writersweekly.com/markets_and_jobs.php
Womagwriter http://womagwriter.blogspot.com This blog highlights magazines that accept short story submissions across several countries. They also provide writers guidelines and the blog will keep you up to date with what’s happening in the market.
Also Open for Submissions:
Untitled http://www.untitledonline.com.au Fiction of any genre - 350 words to 5000 words.
Ether books - http://www.etherbooks.co.uk/ - open to any genre in fiction. Specifically looking at short stories or serial stories. This platform publishes to mobile devices and are available through itunes.
Global Short Stories http://www.globalshortstories.net - all genres all themes - short stories under 2000 words.
Noble Romance - https://www.nobleromance.com Sweethearts (no sex or sexual overtones) and Erotica (more saucy)- Short Stories– 3-10K words. Novellas 10,001-29,999K, 30+K words and up for novels
Wet Ink - http://www.wetink.com.au A magazine of new writing - open to fiction (including genre fiction), creative non-fiction, poetry, memoir, essays and opinion pieces
eFiction http://authors.efictionmag.com/ online monthly magazine - all genres
Red Asylum - http://theredasylum.webs.com/ Quarterly online magazine, devoted to the discovery and publication of dark and twisted stories.
Lyrical Press http://www.lyricalpress.com Seeking erotica, romance, and urban fantasy short stories (15K) through to novels
Got your stories posted on your site and want some readers? These sites are community-run listings of online fiction where you can post a link to your stories and go and check out other writers work. This is particularly handy in order to get feedback from other writers and build your own support group.
Webfiction http://webfictionguide.com/
Write Anythings Fiction Friday http://wa.emergent-publishing.com/writing-prompts/
Mad Utopia http://MadUtopia.com/blog/fridayflash/what-is-fridayflash/
Make sure you follow the submission guidelines carefully - and good luck!
For more great tips, get The Writer’s Choice Newsletter at http://www.creativewritinginstitute.com. Please take a moment to rate this article and make a comment. Bookmark us! Happy day!
Wednesday, June 1, 2011
The Benefits of Journaling
Good Reasons Why You Should Journal
by guest blogger Annie Evett
We write for myriads of reasons:
• To share with others
• To seek social justice
• For self expression
• As a journey of self discovery
• To privately meditate
Journaling is a tool. Listen carefully and you’ll hear the deepest voice of your soul emerge. Open the door to your soul and allow empowerment to blossom. Let the words flow until you situation in black and white. Sometimes issues will resolve themselves, but even if they don't, confronting them will help you work through the pain.
Journaling provides opportunity to question yourself on a deeper level. Once you find the courage to voice the questions, it will be easier to find the answers… answers that may offer inspiration, further pondering, or maybe the base for a new character or article.
Reflective writing will help you keep in touch with honest feelings, explore without judgment, sense intimacy through movement, and process life.
Journaling will help you find solutions. Some people prefer the private formatting of pen and paper while others release through a keyboard or blog. Whichever you choose, commit to it on a daily basis. Don’t edit thoughts or direction the first five minutes. More often than not, the time will stretch and skills will ensue. Don’t worry about the end. It will come when you’re ready for it.
Every reflection will help solve your puzzle. You’ll clarify your thoughts and before you know it, past patterns of life will emerge as resurfaced memories. The incidents from yesteryear have formed your present being, but now you’ll be able to view them as a bridge between the present and the past.
Grant yourself the time to search your soul, understand yourself better, explore the pain, find new purpose, heal, and connect with the world around you. You’ll find that the song you sing will not only warble for you, but it will provide a guiding light for countless others.
Journaling is part of writing therapy and that's what we special in at Creative Writing Institute. Drop by for a visit at http://www.creativewritinginstitute.com and find more great writing tips in The Writer's Choice Newsletter, available on that page.
Have you journaled (or written in a diary)? Tell us how it helped you work through issues.
by guest blogger Annie Evett
We write for myriads of reasons:
• To share with others
• To seek social justice
• For self expression
• As a journey of self discovery
• To privately meditate
Journaling is a tool. Listen carefully and you’ll hear the deepest voice of your soul emerge. Open the door to your soul and allow empowerment to blossom. Let the words flow until you situation in black and white. Sometimes issues will resolve themselves, but even if they don't, confronting them will help you work through the pain.
Journaling provides opportunity to question yourself on a deeper level. Once you find the courage to voice the questions, it will be easier to find the answers… answers that may offer inspiration, further pondering, or maybe the base for a new character or article.
Reflective writing will help you keep in touch with honest feelings, explore without judgment, sense intimacy through movement, and process life.
Journaling will help you find solutions. Some people prefer the private formatting of pen and paper while others release through a keyboard or blog. Whichever you choose, commit to it on a daily basis. Don’t edit thoughts or direction the first five minutes. More often than not, the time will stretch and skills will ensue. Don’t worry about the end. It will come when you’re ready for it.
Every reflection will help solve your puzzle. You’ll clarify your thoughts and before you know it, past patterns of life will emerge as resurfaced memories. The incidents from yesteryear have formed your present being, but now you’ll be able to view them as a bridge between the present and the past.
Grant yourself the time to search your soul, understand yourself better, explore the pain, find new purpose, heal, and connect with the world around you. You’ll find that the song you sing will not only warble for you, but it will provide a guiding light for countless others.
Journaling is part of writing therapy and that's what we special in at Creative Writing Institute. Drop by for a visit at http://www.creativewritinginstitute.com and find more great writing tips in The Writer's Choice Newsletter, available on that page.
Have you journaled (or written in a diary)? Tell us how it helped you work through issues.
Wednesday, March 30, 2011
Novel Writing Isn't for Beginners
Beginners Writing Novels? Oh No!
Why does every beginning writer want to write a book about their rough life? Don't waste your time attacking me. A hundred newbies are beating my door down now. By the time you arrive there will be little left to the imagination but… you might send a sympathy card to my husband.
I can speak on this subject authoritatively. Why? Because I did it. I wish someone had told me I was wasting my time. I wish they had told me to save the serious writing for when I learned a little about the craft. That's why I say novel writing is something that should be left for those who have AT LEAST a little experience... and when I say a "little experience", I mean experience in publication.
And now for the second brutal fact of life: the general public doesn't care about your rough life... UNLESS it can be of practical value to them. The day for caring about what happened to your neighbor is nearly at an end. Today's public is out for one thing - and that is - "What's in it for me?" You have to answer that question.
But there are other reasons why beginners shouldn't try to write novels. Do you know:
• what a hook is? (No, you don't fish with it.)
• how to build with proper foundation and structure? (Nope. No cement involved in this kind of construction.)
• what a theme is? (I'm not referring to holidays or Disneyland.)
• what a plot is, or how to build it? (Nope - not a plot of ground.)
• how to build a character or give them "warts"? (I'm not talking about real warts on the Wicked Witch of the West.)
• what an arc is or where to place it? (Nope, it's not a rainbow.)
• what resolutions are or how to resolve them? (Sounds like something that should be in a contract, doesn't it?)
• or how to write a properly crafted, publishable 2,000 word short story? (Ah, now we're getting down to brass tacks.)
So where does that leave you? Probably at the corner of I Don't Care, I'm Gonna Write it Anyway and How Do I Learn All This Stuff? My answer is, go south one block and turn right on Writing Course Avenue.
Don't try to start at the top of the ladder. Take your place as a beginner and earn your stripes like the rest of us. Two classes will get you off the ground and give you a good foundation but learning the art will take years so settle in for the long haul. Only the persistent make it. There are no shortcuts. If there were, I'd write an exposé and become an overnight millionaire.
If you truly don't have money to take writing courses, read and study every article you can find on writing. The net is full of them. Take notes! Subscribe to a good writing magazine (I like The Writer, and no, I don't have affiliations with them). Write to people who own writing websites and ask specific questions. Get to know writers on Facebook and LinkedIn. Join a writing group such as www.writing.com. They have a five-star rating system where you can post your work and receive ratings. In return, you rate the writing of others. Another good site is My Writer's Circle at www.mywriterscircle.com.
But before you join a writing group, make up your mind to accept and act upon 95% of the suggestions and criticisms you receive. Resolve to step out of your Hanes Hurt Feelings Underwear and stand naked before the truth. That's when you'll really find the help you seek.
So – when should you write the novel that you can't get out of your mind? You can start on it now – in your spare time. Form a rough outline by using working (temporary) titles and write anywhere from two sentences to a paragraph about each one. Yes, you can depart from the outline but it will always be there to help pull you back into form. Write fifty questions about each of the two main characters and answer those questions. Find a picture of them in a magazine or catalog and place it where you'll see it first thing in the morning and last thing at night. These are things you should do in preparation. Don't waste your time trying to write the book in full. You'll only have to rewrite the whole thing a dozen or more times. Just get the ideas down and get well acquainted with your characters.
In the meantime, work on learning how to craft a good 2,000 word short story (the equivalent of one chapter). When you sell one or two short stories, it will be time to take a novel writing class.
Paperback novels usually run about 50,000 words. A hardback book will run upwards of 80,000. Now really, don't you think it would be wise to learn how to write one proper chapter before you begin a novel? It's just common sense. A book is a monstrous commitment and the disappointment of rejection is huge. Start small. Think big. Good luck!
For more great writing tips, see http://www.creativewritinginstitute.com. Our newsletter is super!
Why does every beginning writer want to write a book about their rough life? Don't waste your time attacking me. A hundred newbies are beating my door down now. By the time you arrive there will be little left to the imagination but… you might send a sympathy card to my husband.
I can speak on this subject authoritatively. Why? Because I did it. I wish someone had told me I was wasting my time. I wish they had told me to save the serious writing for when I learned a little about the craft. That's why I say novel writing is something that should be left for those who have AT LEAST a little experience... and when I say a "little experience", I mean experience in publication.
And now for the second brutal fact of life: the general public doesn't care about your rough life... UNLESS it can be of practical value to them. The day for caring about what happened to your neighbor is nearly at an end. Today's public is out for one thing - and that is - "What's in it for me?" You have to answer that question.
But there are other reasons why beginners shouldn't try to write novels. Do you know:
• what a hook is? (No, you don't fish with it.)
• how to build with proper foundation and structure? (Nope. No cement involved in this kind of construction.)
• what a theme is? (I'm not referring to holidays or Disneyland.)
• what a plot is, or how to build it? (Nope - not a plot of ground.)
• how to build a character or give them "warts"? (I'm not talking about real warts on the Wicked Witch of the West.)
• what an arc is or where to place it? (Nope, it's not a rainbow.)
• what resolutions are or how to resolve them? (Sounds like something that should be in a contract, doesn't it?)
• or how to write a properly crafted, publishable 2,000 word short story? (Ah, now we're getting down to brass tacks.)
So where does that leave you? Probably at the corner of I Don't Care, I'm Gonna Write it Anyway and How Do I Learn All This Stuff? My answer is, go south one block and turn right on Writing Course Avenue.
Don't try to start at the top of the ladder. Take your place as a beginner and earn your stripes like the rest of us. Two classes will get you off the ground and give you a good foundation but learning the art will take years so settle in for the long haul. Only the persistent make it. There are no shortcuts. If there were, I'd write an exposé and become an overnight millionaire.
If you truly don't have money to take writing courses, read and study every article you can find on writing. The net is full of them. Take notes! Subscribe to a good writing magazine (I like The Writer, and no, I don't have affiliations with them). Write to people who own writing websites and ask specific questions. Get to know writers on Facebook and LinkedIn. Join a writing group such as www.writing.com. They have a five-star rating system where you can post your work and receive ratings. In return, you rate the writing of others. Another good site is My Writer's Circle at www.mywriterscircle.com.
But before you join a writing group, make up your mind to accept and act upon 95% of the suggestions and criticisms you receive. Resolve to step out of your Hanes Hurt Feelings Underwear and stand naked before the truth. That's when you'll really find the help you seek.
So – when should you write the novel that you can't get out of your mind? You can start on it now – in your spare time. Form a rough outline by using working (temporary) titles and write anywhere from two sentences to a paragraph about each one. Yes, you can depart from the outline but it will always be there to help pull you back into form. Write fifty questions about each of the two main characters and answer those questions. Find a picture of them in a magazine or catalog and place it where you'll see it first thing in the morning and last thing at night. These are things you should do in preparation. Don't waste your time trying to write the book in full. You'll only have to rewrite the whole thing a dozen or more times. Just get the ideas down and get well acquainted with your characters.
In the meantime, work on learning how to craft a good 2,000 word short story (the equivalent of one chapter). When you sell one or two short stories, it will be time to take a novel writing class.
Paperback novels usually run about 50,000 words. A hardback book will run upwards of 80,000. Now really, don't you think it would be wise to learn how to write one proper chapter before you begin a novel? It's just common sense. A book is a monstrous commitment and the disappointment of rejection is huge. Start small. Think big. Good luck!
For more great writing tips, see http://www.creativewritinginstitute.com. Our newsletter is super!
Sunday, March 6, 2011
Persistence in Writing
Writing Persistence Wins in the Long Run
Persistence is the key to success. Out of 100 people, only 50 will finish their writing project. Out of those 50, about 25 will quit after their first rejection. Out of the remaining 25, only 12 will follow the guidelines & submit properly. Out of that 12, only 7 or 8 will match their work to the proper source.
Your odds are better than you thought! Here's the moral to the story:
1. Choose your market FIRST and then write the story/article to match the market. (Line up three markets at a time so that when [not if] you get your rejection slip, you can pop it into the mail to the next market)
2. Finish the project
3. Edit it properly
4. Read the market's guidelines and follow them to the letter
5. Call the market and learn the editor's name. Be sure to get the spelling correct. (Editors move around a lot. You may see the editor's name as you research, but that's old news. That editor may not still be there.)
6. Submit, submit, submit, submit
7. Keep your rejection slips. Frame them in gold. It means you went further than 93% of the writers did.
8. Pop it into the mail to the next market. If it doesn't sell after three submissions, something is wrong. Ask a veteran writer to look at it and and give you an honest critique.
For more great writing tips, sign up for our newsletter at http://www.creativewritinginstitute.com. If you like this article, drop a quick comment and click on "Like". Thanks!
Persistence is the key to success. Out of 100 people, only 50 will finish their writing project. Out of those 50, about 25 will quit after their first rejection. Out of the remaining 25, only 12 will follow the guidelines & submit properly. Out of that 12, only 7 or 8 will match their work to the proper source.
Your odds are better than you thought! Here's the moral to the story:
1. Choose your market FIRST and then write the story/article to match the market. (Line up three markets at a time so that when [not if] you get your rejection slip, you can pop it into the mail to the next market)
2. Finish the project
3. Edit it properly
4. Read the market's guidelines and follow them to the letter
5. Call the market and learn the editor's name. Be sure to get the spelling correct. (Editors move around a lot. You may see the editor's name as you research, but that's old news. That editor may not still be there.)
6. Submit, submit, submit, submit
7. Keep your rejection slips. Frame them in gold. It means you went further than 93% of the writers did.
8. Pop it into the mail to the next market. If it doesn't sell after three submissions, something is wrong. Ask a veteran writer to look at it and and give you an honest critique.
For more great writing tips, sign up for our newsletter at http://www.creativewritinginstitute.com. If you like this article, drop a quick comment and click on "Like". Thanks!
Saturday, February 19, 2011
E-Publishing - Should You Do It?
To E-Publish or Not E-Publish... That is the Question
by guest blogger Nicholas Boving
Let’s face it, for the little-known author, getting a book into print is tough. Regular publishing is nearly impossible. Self-publishing is an exercise in frustration and sales rarely cover the cost. Besides, who wants a garage full of moldy, unsold books? Any way you look at it, your earnings per hour will average below starvation wage.
So what’s the alternative? After a stuttering, stammering start, E-Book Publishing is making a comeback in spades. The giants of the book selling world, Amazon.com and Barnes & Noble, have grabbed the baton and made their presence known.
But again, it comes down to self-promotion. Shameless self promotion. Put the information on Facebook. Send it to your friends and ask them to pass the message on. Twitter as hard as your little fat fingers will type. Blog about it. Guest blog about it. Get on LinkedIn and other such sites, set up a professional profile, hang out with authors and advertise your E-books. Use provocative titles that ask questions or make bold statements.
The Big Secret: Upload your babies to an E-Book site, bite the bullet and let it go for nothing. That’s right, for zip, nada, as in FREE! If you’ve only got one book, set a time limit on your offer. If you’ve got more than one, maybe rotate them. Study some of the E-Books you read and get ideas on how to present your idea in the best way possible. You'll want to use colors, bold headlines, bullet points, etc. Not too many people can resist a freebie that meets a need. The name of the game is to get readers.
Of course there are no guarantees in life and even fewer in publishing, but at least with E-Books your destiny is in your own hands and it won't cost you a cent. Why not give it a try?
You can see Nick's E-books at https://www.smashwords.com/profile/view/Nicholas.
For more great writing tips, subscribe to The Writer's Choice at Creative Writing Institute at http://www.creativewritinginstitute.com.
by guest blogger Nicholas Boving
Let’s face it, for the little-known author, getting a book into print is tough. Regular publishing is nearly impossible. Self-publishing is an exercise in frustration and sales rarely cover the cost. Besides, who wants a garage full of moldy, unsold books? Any way you look at it, your earnings per hour will average below starvation wage.
So what’s the alternative? After a stuttering, stammering start, E-Book Publishing is making a comeback in spades. The giants of the book selling world, Amazon.com and Barnes & Noble, have grabbed the baton and made their presence known.
But again, it comes down to self-promotion. Shameless self promotion. Put the information on Facebook. Send it to your friends and ask them to pass the message on. Twitter as hard as your little fat fingers will type. Blog about it. Guest blog about it. Get on LinkedIn and other such sites, set up a professional profile, hang out with authors and advertise your E-books. Use provocative titles that ask questions or make bold statements.
The Big Secret: Upload your babies to an E-Book site, bite the bullet and let it go for nothing. That’s right, for zip, nada, as in FREE! If you’ve only got one book, set a time limit on your offer. If you’ve got more than one, maybe rotate them. Study some of the E-Books you read and get ideas on how to present your idea in the best way possible. You'll want to use colors, bold headlines, bullet points, etc. Not too many people can resist a freebie that meets a need. The name of the game is to get readers.
Of course there are no guarantees in life and even fewer in publishing, but at least with E-Books your destiny is in your own hands and it won't cost you a cent. Why not give it a try?
You can see Nick's E-books at https://www.smashwords.com/profile/view/Nicholas.
For more great writing tips, subscribe to The Writer's Choice at Creative Writing Institute at http://www.creativewritinginstitute.com.
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