Writing Winning Entries in Short Fiction & Memoir: 7 Tips
Brought to you by Field of Words
Writing Winning Entries in Short Fiction and Memoir: 7 Tips
Prepared by Dr Eileen Herbert-Goodall Director of Field of Words, Field of Words Š 2018
Field of Words Contact Details: Email ~ entries@fieldofwords.com.au ~ https://www.facebook.com/fieldofwords/
Reputable writing competitions are worth entering for a few reasons. Whether you’re writing fiction or non-fiction, the process of entering competitions will constantly stretch you, helping ensure you’re producing and distributing your best work. When writing for competitions, you need to check that every single word is purposeful and in the right place. This process of reflection and critical analysis helps sharpens your ‘eye for detail’, which is a skill that all great writers are dedicated to honing. Entering writing competitions (and having success) is also a good way to build a portfolio of creative work. Of course, successful entrants often have their work published as well, so writing competitions are a great way for emerging writers to access readers around the world. Keep in mind that most competitions charge a submission or reading fee. Some competitions will publish top entries, others may not (such details will be in the competition guidelines/conditions). In any case, if you are named as a successful entrant, you should never have to pay to have your work distributed or published by the competition’s organisers. Beware of scam competitions and do your research. A quick Google search will usually alert you to anything dubious. There’s intense competition out there when it comes to seeking commendations (and possibly scoring a win) for your writing. Below you’ll find a few tips and pointers related to improving your chances of success in the creative writing awards field.