Aside from sparse info on submission packages, there are as many methods to getting published or professionally recognized as there are people on this planet. Thus, what I post on this online journal, in regards for my attempts to get published, will most likely not be a fail-safe map that can be repeated to the letter. The usual mantra that I hear, and believe in, is perseverance, networking, and simply taking pleasure in one's own art.
But we already knew that, right?
Sort of. The perseverance part can be tough if external encouragement is sparse, and sometimes it's so easy to stress about what isn't happening that it's easy to forget to enjoy what is occurring... namely the awesome experience of just creating. That's something I always try to remember when I'm writing: "Don't forget to just enjoy it. This is your passion, so enjoy this."
There's also the vast array of technological aids at our disposal these days to think about. John August just released his fast-paced short story, "The Variant", to purchase online, and he even describes on his website in detail how to self-publish online in the style he used. I'm not sure if I would want to try this method for a full novel just yet, but it would be interesting to try it out on a short story like he did. Again, it's something to mull over.
So even if the whole prospect of getting published sounds dreadfully intricate or intense, I'm starting to get a little excited about it. This is something I love doing, and if some adventure, stress, and strategy are involved, then so be it. I'm psyched either way.
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I always attempt to utilize my Netflix subscription to its full potential, and was recently pleasantly surprised by the film The Assassination of Jesse James by the Coward Robert Ford. It was unsettlingly beautiful and powerfully performed. I recommend if you're a fan of gorgeous cinematography, subtle performances, or unique and odd films. I wouldn't recommend it for everyone, but if you want something a little different, try it out for size.
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The next post might involve writing action scenes or description and pacing, but we shall see. Stay tuned nevertheless!
After my refection from Glimmer Train, I felt pretty discouraged.
ReplyDeleteWhat did I expect, though, having it been my first try?
We need to get published, you and I, ASAP. If that whiney hack Stephenie Meyer (sp? who cares.) can get a story she wrote on the back of a trapper keeper published and read, we should be able too.
rejection*
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