I suggest that those of us who enjoy writing, whatever the genre, have three specific aims: to write well, to share it with others and to see our work published. None of these aims are easy and all make us vulnerable in the process. I am suggesting ways of reaching the final goal without too much pain and fewer rejection slips on the way.
- Start small. The easiest way to get into print is to write letters. Choose a magazine you enjoy or a local newspaper. If you enjoy a particular magazine then it is probably written in your style and about subjects that interest you and this is a good place to start. Study the letters page, the language used, count the number of words, their subjects. When inspiration strikes write a letter as close in style as possible.
- Write some fillers. These can be jokes, recipes, poems, tips. Readers Digest is a good place to check on fillers. Featured poems are often ones that create a mood, perhaps reflecting on nature or relationships.
- When you feel confident from these successes you might care to try a personal experience story. Avoid the magazines that go for high drama and concentrate on something sincere which will appeal to readers of your favourite magazine.
- Short stories are a further challenge. Read a variety of them carefully. Choose a suitable theme and check the length of the average short story in the magazine of your choice. Some magazines offer guidelines upon request.
Finally, to enable you to achieve your first and most important aim, to write well, I would recommend that you join a Writers Group. A writer's life is a lonely one and you will meet like minded people there who will encourage you. A good group with an experienced leader is educational and challenging.
I cannot conclude without mentioning Triond where you can try out your ideas and get into the habit of writing regularly, indeed they encourage you to do that, and you will get some feedback as you go along.
Getting published is all about practice, patience and perseverance. Go to it and enjoy yourself immensely in the process.
