So, it occurred to me the other day that I've been in the wrong headspace for a while now. I've been so focused on one thing: getting my book published, that I've neglected perfecting my actual writing ability. It's reasonably possible I'm not actually developing myself at all a this point, which is dangerously juvenile.
I'm convinced now that this could be the instrument my destruction and prevent me from succeeding in a career I so desperately want to be in.
The last day or so I've been doing some research about being a writer in Australia. It seems there are many resources at my disposal even where I am. First off, groups, I used to not believe in that sort of thing, but it seems more and more like a helpful tool. And an inexpensive endeavor. Secondly, competitions. Now, amateur as it sounds, this had never even occurred to me. And this is exactly where I plan to start.
Short stories are so great. They give you a short target to achieve, help develop continuity between prose and dialogue (of which I often struggle), and limited space to tell a story that could otherwise drag for far too long. Among other things, that is.
All the competitions I'm going to strive to enter are centered on short stories. An achievable goal. I don't necessarily need to place, but if I at least get shortlisted or some level of criticism, it will improve my writing that much better. And help me land an agent or publisher recommendation.
And that, right there, is what it's all about.
Watch out 2012, I'm coming for you!
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