Archive for the 'A little tip or two' Category
April 13th, 2008 - Writers Looking to Write
If you write and consistently find yourself wondering what other writers submit, here are two great sites I think you should visit:
- www.writersdigest.com : Writer’s Digest is one of the best sources for finding information on publishing, submitting, and writing resources.
- www.glimmertrain.com: Glimmertrin press survives off of the submissions from writers. They particularly like fresh, unpublished writers and don’t require specific genres. Glimmertrain also holds contests for writers all year round, some quarterly while others remain in place. The only downside (as with some publishers) there is a submission charge for entering contests.
February 6th, 2008 - The Drama of Genre
I find that readers of pop and literature get stuck in the drama of having a favorite genre of writing. You only read Jane Austin, or Grisham novels or only V.C. Andrews (if you’re under the age of 18). Challenge yourself — go into a section you’ve never ventured before and choose a book.
For me, Stephen King has been the reigning champion in my top favorites. But if you only read certain genres, it not only limits your knowledge as a reader, but your writing as well.
- Reading new styles, teaches new technique.
After I let King settle in the dust awhile, I found Alice Walker (The Color Purple, Possessing the Secret of Joy) and Sylvia Plath (The Bell Jar) — two great but very different writers. Think you’ll get weary or bored?
- Read in a place where there is no other choice but to indulge.
This includes, but isn’t limited to while on a plane, during road travel, bus, train rides, a chapel or two…. Most times you’ll find “genre” is not the most important thing about the novel. And if you theorize like Roland Barthes, the author has little to do with the piece. I guarantee that character, setting and plot will overshadow any preconceived notions about a specific genre.
- Tip your own reading scale and diversify your intake of text.
Happy huntin’ …