Story Craft Forum Learn all you can, than write!

I know a lot of people on this forum. Hard working people who strive to win a contest, get noticed and possibly have people read their work. There is no magic spell that will get you where you want but there are tools you can use.

1. When you get a critque, listen.
2. Don't get so involved with your own writing that you can't see mistakes
3. Be kind to yourself and don't beat yourself up
4. Write the best you can, then keep learning... always learning.

When you feel comfortable with your writing, people will sense that when they read what you wrote. Feelings, emotions do come out in words whether we fully understand this or not. You can make a powerful statement in a few words, or you can be stretch it out and make it boring.

Define the kind of writer you are then write. Show the group and the cafe' and if you are lucky you'll get published. To all of you good luck! I am too learning, but I also have a lot of editors too! Next to a dog, they are your best friend. =)

I like this advice. Its simple but inversely impacting. I agree that there is a confidence and a personality that comes through in writing whether we are aware of it or not. The "voice" I suppose some people call it. I have noticed for me, that some readers receive some pieces of my work better than others (even if it's not my best) because, I think that human aspect of empathy will always connect when the words cannot. The best critiques will come from the works that connect to the reader after the words are gone.

1. When you get a critque, listen.
2. Don't get so involved with your own writing that you can't see mistakes

I think these are two really important pieces of advice while everyone likes having praise - least I know I do - the best critiques are those that can help you see where there are mistakes. I much prefer those. I attend poetry groups where we critique each other�s work and attend a Poetry School. Every now and again the tutor will really bash the poem I�ve selected for that week. I come away with a bruised ego and it may take some hours to pick my shattered self worth of the floor but what he says is usually right and I�ve had a useful lesson.