Short Stories
From http://academics.utep.edu
Once upon a time I wrote short stories. I loved writing short form fiction. I belonged to an online livejournal group called MuseMuggers and we had to write bits on a pretty regular basis. I found that my confidence grew and I enjoyed myself. I found that most of my writing turned quite dark and a bit emo and a bit gothic. Completely unlike my usual voice when trying to write longer fiction. It was a surprise.
So this weekend I decided to polish up a short story I wrote some time ago and to submit it to a short story competition. I mentioned this on Twitter and had amazing messages of support. I did not expect it but you know, I took it.
It’s quite frightening really – sending off a short story in for a competition or even a novel length story in for a competition. I mean, it’s not like you know any of the people doing the readings and the judging. They don’t have to be nice to you. But having said that, it is all a bit anonymous in its entirety and your fiction has to stand on its own two feet.
I don’t know if I’ll get anywhere with this competition. Who knows?! But I loved revising the short story and I realised that writing in a different voice is so much fun. And also hard work.
So, a few more readings and some feedback to be incorporated before sending it off, thankfully via email! Phew.
