When you are a writer, there comes a time when you realize that it is time to send your work off into the world.
When I wrote “Gone to the Dogs,” my novel about a fictional 1970’s sitcom, I initially queried it with several literary agents. This method, I was told, was the way to get your work in front of a publisher.
But the lot of a literary agent is not an easy one. The risk inherent in signing a new client is enormous, especially when your livelihood depends upon a successful outcome. If it were me, I would stick with my tried and tested clientele.
But, there are other routes for the would-be writer to attain that hallmark of quality and public recognition. One that is open to all is the writing competition.
The great thing about writing competitions is that someone will carefully read your work. Someone will carefully weigh it up, poring over your every word, simile, and idea. The judgement comes with a total level playing field. You could have a Booker Prize or a computer held together with gaffer tape. It makes no difference. You will be equal with your peers.
It is a wonderfully empowering feeling, knowing that someone knowledgable is giving your writing a chance. It is also the source of something even better; hope. You get a lovely feeling when you send your entry off to a competition. I generally don my suit and practice my speech in the mirror. I think about all the new readers who will check out my work, after seeing my name in print, and, if there’s a bit of money on offer, I look up the all of the possible bespoke options I could have on my new German sports car!
The challenge then becomes finding these competitions. It can be something of a hit and miss affair, particularly if you are looking for an opportunity that closely fits the type of content you provide.
Wouldn’t it be great then if someone had done all of this leg work for you? Well, at least one person has.
Christopher Fielden is one of these heroes. His website is a remarkable resource for the writer. If a competition is worth having a look at, the chances are that it is included within this noteworthy body of work.
Chris has made things a lot easier by categorizing these opportunities so that finding the correct placement is a lot easier. Whether you want to find a chance for your novel, short story, flash fiction, or non-fiction essay, Chris has done the hard miles and has found the right spot for you.
The site also provides details such as entry fee, maximum word count, renewal frequency, and prize fund. In short, everything that a future competition winner, like you, would need.
Furthermore, if you are unsure where to start, and need a few hints and tips, then Chris, once again, is your man. He can offer quality learning material, both paid and free, to send you on your way with confidence.
The only choices that are left are which competitions to enter and which sports car to buy.
Good luck, and enjoy your writing.
Join Chris at http://www.christopherfielden.com or follow him @ChrisFielden