This is a critique group for writers that will be entering a story in the second quarter of 2008 in the Writers of the Future contest. Any are welcome to join. If you do though, please follow the direction for such.
Currently, the group that will be participating in this quarter are: WriterDan KayTi Annepin Halogen Snapper
If you want to join, please repost this list of names in your reply, and then add your name to the bottom.
Deadlines for this quarter's crits are as follows:
Feb 7th: First drafts out for high-level crits
Mar 7th: Second drafts out for low-level crits and line edits
Mar 31st: Mail-in deadline for Q02
Please try to stick to them. We want to be able to give everyone the time they need to finish their own stories, and late crits will make this difficult.
That being said, lets get busy with the writing! I know I have a bundle to do. Good luck.
[This message has been edited by WriterDan (edited January 09, 2008).]
Posted by InarticulateBabbler (Member # 4849) on :
Count me out this quarter, Dan.
I have a prior commitment. I have a collaborative novel in the works which I put off last quarter, and my co-author didn't.
I just thought making a "Quarter Post" would be a helpful tool for those who are participating. If I'm in next quarter, I will certainly start another topic rather than adding to this one.
To those who are in, though Good Luck. I hope this group can--in it's entirety--see the task through.
[This message has been edited by InarticulateBabbler (edited January 08, 2008).]
Posted by annepin (Member # 5952) on :
Okay, if you are previously listed and want out, please recopy the list with your name edited out.
Keeping an accurate list of participates will make sending out the crits much much easier as we won't have to scroll through the comments to see who's in or out.
So, list as of January 8:
WriterDan KayTi Annepin Halogen Snapper
Posted by snapper (Member # 7299) on :
Looking forward to reading your submissions for this quarter. My story will be ready before the deadline so if anyone wants an early look let me know and I'll send it your way as soon as its done.
Posted by WriterDan (Member # 6456) on :
Sorry to hear that you won't be in this quarter IAB. Enjoyed seeing the development of your last story. Good luck with the collaborative. Have one myself, and my co-author is actually moving much closer to me (12 min vs. 12 hrs away) in a few weeks, so I know that the crunch will come for me sometime soon too. Hope to catch you next time around.
Posted by KayTi (Member # 5137) on :
snapper, it would help me tremendously to not receive all the stories at once. Plus, well, I'm a procrastinator...I need all the time I can get so I can feel I have adequately procrastinated everything.
So - send it along. Do you have my email from previous exchanges? I don't post it, so if not I will find yours on your profile and send you a note. My email addy has this handle in it + some numbers, just so it doesn't surprise you.
Posted by snapper (Member # 7299) on :
KayTi (and everyone else),
I'm sure their is a different way to do this that is preferable to the adminstrator but here's my email address. snapperfjd@yahoo.com I passed this story thru a separate critque site, so it has gone through the rough draft stage but I still need to make a few changes. I should complete those in a day or two. Feel free to drop me a line so I'll have a place to send you my submission.
[This message has been edited by snapper (edited January 10, 2008).]
Posted by snapper (Member # 7299) on :
My submission is done, 7000 words. Anyone that wants to get an early start can drop me a line.
And anyone that would like a review on partial or all of their submit can feel free to contact me.
[This message has been edited by snapper (edited January 10, 2008).]
[This message has been edited by snapper (edited January 10, 2008).]
[This message has been edited by snapper (edited January 11, 2008).]
Posted by ChrisOwens (Member # 1955) on :
It might not be a good idea to give the real titles in a public forum. If you get to the finalists round, you could disqualify yourself.
Working titles are probably okay, as long as they are sufficiently disguised.
[This message has been edited by ChrisOwens (edited January 10, 2008).]
Posted by darklight (Member # 5213) on :
I don't even have an idea for a story yet, but would it be ok for me to join in this quarter? I want to write and submit something to WOTF, but never seem to get around to doing it. I hope this will give me the boost I need.
Posted by snapper (Member # 7299) on :
new list
WriterDan KayTi Annepin Halogen Snapper darklight
Anyone else that wants in just copy this list and add your name to the bottom. My draft is done if anyone wants an early start, or you can just wait until the Feb. 7.
[This message has been edited by snapper (edited January 14, 2008).]
Posted by annepin (Member # 5952) on :
People who have their drafts done, I'd appreciate your sending it to me.
Posted by darklight (Member # 5213) on :
Same for me. If you're done, please send it my way.
Posted by KayTi (Member # 5137) on :
Anyone have any input on this? Is a pre-history type of story acceptable? For whatever reason that's the idea that's dominating my brain right now. One of those "what would happen if..." kinds of questions that I got under my skin and need to write about to figure out. But is the pre-historic setting enough? I plan to make the setting accurate (e.g., no woven cloth, animal hides and all that jazz) but am not looking to make this a perfect period piece with dozens of hours of research behind it. It's just a setting. I suppose I could establish the same question in another setting, but the pre-historic setting fits the story so well and gives it some of the cultural considerations that will be necessary (I'd have to explain those if I use a futuristic setting.)
I know it's impossible to tell from my vague descriptions, but what do you think - is pre-history enough for the speculative element? There will be some use of herbs and some assumption of god/gods behaviors (which today are explainable by science.)
Posted by InarticulateBabbler (Member # 4849) on :
quote: Anyone have any input on this? Is a pre-history type of story acceptable? For whatever reason that's the idea that's dominating my brain right now. One of those "what would happen if..." kinds of questions that I got under my skin and need to write about to figure out. But is the pre-historic setting enough? I plan to make the setting accurate (e.g., no woven cloth, animal hides and all that jazz)
KayTi: The setting isn't a "speculative element" unless it's somehow magic, infested with mythological creatures or monsters, or involves a vast amount technology. Simple rule: If it could happen--without magic/technology--it's mundane. (That's what ruined my chances last quarter.) Just add a magical or scientific element, it doesn't have to be a major one and you'll squeeze it in there. Maybe, if you think about a magic item, spell, monster, bit of technology and mix it with the story you're thinking of (see how that element could fit) you'll have novelette. OSC says that's how he gets his stories, by mating two unrelated ideas...
[This message has been edited by InarticulateBabbler (edited January 16, 2008).]
Posted by Kathleen Dalton Woodbury (Member # 59) on :
The thing about a prehistoric setting is that what such people actually believed could be considered "magic" by our standards, especially if their magical thinking works for them.
So I would think that all you might need to do is show that the character can get the right response from the gods by doing or saying the correct magical things.
Or not, if that's what Inarticulate Babbler tried and didn't make work.
Posted by KayTi (Member # 5137) on :
Thanks for the input. As I was thinking these responses through, it occurred to me that my story could very easily be set on another planet. I can make that speculative element apparent pretty quickly by having there be some obvious astrological or geographical aspect play some kind of role (navigating by different stars, multiple moons or satellites, etc.) I think that would suit for the story, which is all about freedom and independence and the role society plays in each. But I'm a spec fic writer, the fantastic element needs to be there or I'll lose interest in the story, LOL.
Thanks again for the input!
Posted by darklight (Member # 5213) on :
OK, I have a question. My story is set on another planet, in a galaxy where there are many inhabited planets. What would be the best way to get this across without a whole lot of back history that is unrelated to the story? So far I haven't mentioned the planet's name because I haven't seen a way to put it in organically, but its been bothering me how to get these kinds of details in. It only becomes relevent by the end of the story and I don't want to drop it on the reader out of the blue.
Posted by annepin (Member # 5952) on :
Can you tweak the setting some how? Have weird animals or something? Something in the setting/ description could tip the reader off. Different gravity, maybe? Though I suppose to these people it would be normal gravity if they've never been anywhere else.
Do they travel/ communicate with the other inhabited planets? Are they colonizers of some sort? In these situations, it would be fairly easy to slip in a reference of some sort, I think.
Posted by darklight (Member # 5213) on :
Thanks annepin. I managed to slip in the name of the planet, but thinking about it, it's ambiguous. It could be the name of a country, a continent even a town or city, so it's back to the drawing board.
Posted by annepin (Member # 5952) on :
Ugh, this magic thing is killing me. I guess I don't usually write about magic. I have a short story I think I'm going to retool for this, putting magic in, but don't know... it feels a might awkward to me. Maybe I should go for the sci fi.
Posted by snapper (Member # 7299) on :
Need any help annepin? What is your premise, if I may ask?
Posted by darklight (Member # 5213) on :
Wondering how everyone is doing. I'm at 6,000, got a fair bit more to do but am aiming for a total length of around 10,000. I think it's going well but am worried that the speculative element is coming too late into the story.
And a reminder that if anyone has finished, please send them out.
Posted by halogen (Member # 6494) on :
If anyone has something early, or a rough, or just bits and pieces feel free to send them my way any time. I'm not going to be writing but I'll try to help out where I can. Just put your username and WOTF in the subject of the email.
I don't do line-by-line grammar crits (I'm terrible at that) but I'd be happy to do first impressions and overall big-picture type stuff.
Posted by JustPadric (Member # 7766) on :
Just wondering...
I just signed up for this forum a couple of days ago. I'm very intrested in putting in a submission for the contest, though it seems a bit late in the game to jump in now. I do have a rough draft at this point for the story I'd like to submit, but it is very rough, and only some of the main characters and plot points would probably remain the same through the rewrite. That and I'm still trying to find my 'voice' in the story as it were.
I'd very much like some input and simply like to start getting the ball rolling, so it does more than just take up computer space on my hard drive. Having some actual feedback about it might be just the thing to get me going, even if I can't get a copy I'd feel comfortable with sending until next quarter.
If it's to late to throw my hat in for this quarter I completely understand, I'd hate to add undue stress on anyone this late in the process.
Posted by halogen (Member # 6494) on :
The first deadline is Feb 7th so I don't see why it would be a problem.
FYI this is a group critique, so you'll have to be willing to critique everyone else's stories as well (this can be time consuming, that's why I bring it up).
Posted by JustPadric (Member # 7766) on :
I have no problem with criticing other's works, though I should mention this is my first real attempt at writing outside some college courses and just for fun. I don't know how good my advice would be, outside of knowing what I personally enjoy reading from years of reading various Sci-Fi and Fantasy books.
I know there are some posts and links to some very good guides to critiqueing work and what to look for, which I'll be looking into for help. If anyone has any other advice, I'm all ears.
Posted by annepin (Member # 5952) on :
Cool, JP, glad you decided to join. On a very basic level, even just logging your reactions, i.e., "I don't get why the character did this", "This part was really slow and boring", or "Huh? Who the heck is this guy?" can be extremely helpful.
Snapper--thanks for your offer for help. I think I've got it solved. I guess I'll see if it worked when I submit it to y'all!
Thanks to you that have critiqued my entry. Its helped a lot. Anyone that has theirs ready please send it. I'm headed on vacation on the 9th. I'll read all of your work but it will be a week behind unless you can get it to me before then. WriterDan and Padric, are you ready to take a look at mine? I can wait if your not.
Posted by JustPadric (Member # 7766) on :
I'm ready to start reading works and can send out my rough draft to everyone. On re-reading what I wrote about 5 months ago, I realize I have ALOT of retooling to do, but I finnally have an idea of how I want to do it.
So yes, please send me your stories I'll start looking them over and critic where I can.
Thanks again, so excited to be here finnally doing something!
Posted by darklight (Member # 5213) on :
JustPadirc, please send your story to me.
I will be ready to send mine out in a couple of days. I have the climax of the story to write, which should take me one more session. Those willing to read before the deadline, let me know and send it out.
Posted by JustPadric (Member # 7766) on :
I sent my very rough draft out to everyone with some basic explinations.
KayTi, I couldn't send you anything as you don't list your email. Just shoot me a note on my Email and I'll send you my rough draft.
Posted by annepin (Member # 5952) on :
Got your stuff, JP. DL, send me yours whenever it's ready.
I'm still working on mine. I scrapped my previous idea--just couldn't bring myself to rework my entire piece to make it magical--and decided to go sci fi instead... but it's a little tricky. I'm hoping to have a draft in a day or so and will send it out to those who requested drafts earlier rather than later.
Posted by darklight (Member # 5213) on :
I'm done. I'll sending it out soon. Thanks in advance for critiquing.
Posted by WriterDan (Member # 6456) on :
Okay, so I'm a heel. Well, maybe not. Got back from Christmas vacation, caught back up with the absolute necessaries, and then got really sick. Still fighting it, and going on 2.5 wks now. Things are looking up though, and I'm ready to tackle this thing again.
My story is currently sitting at about 5k words and I'm just having a blast. It's probably 60-70% complete. I'll do my best to get it done pronto and out to people, before the deadline if possible. That being said, I'm more than happy to throw a crit to anyone at any time. So if your story draft is done, send it my way. I'll try to get it returned asap. Glad to see that we have so many people in the group this quarter. Woo-hoo!
I'll stay up on top of this thing better from here on out. January is always a tough sick-month for me. Later all.
Posted by annepin (Member # 5952) on :
You're no heel! Glad to have you back. I was afraid you'd slipped away into some other dimension or something.
Anyway, I just sent my entry out to the group. Thanks in advance for your eyes and brains! Mmm... brains... whoops, sorry. I guess I'm feeling somewhat zombie-esque right now. My brain is pretty fried.
Posted by JustPadric (Member # 7766) on :
Ugh.
After re-reading through my rough draft I realize I want to rework the whole damn thing. Doesn't feel even close to the story I want to tell. Some of the charaters I want to keep and the over all plot, but everything else just feels like monologue junk.
Sitting down to rewrite it again, I realize I need stronger characters, which always seems to be a problem for me. The basic idea is there, some over all points I'd like to express, but the story itself seems forced. I might have to bow out for this quarter. I will keep plugging at it though, but I'm thinking now it might take alot more revising than just one month can yeild.
I'm still very intrested in critiqueing, as I find reading everyone else's works help me to find where my own writting is lacking.
It's frustrating having a good idea but no good way to express it.
Posted by annepin (Member # 5952) on :
Just to check in... At this point I've received, critted, and returned stories from DarkLight, JustPadric, and Snapper. If you haven't gotten my crit, let me know and I'll resend.
I also sent my story out a few days ago, so if you don't have it, let me know and I'll resend that. Am I repeating myself? Sorry.
[This message has been edited by annepin (edited January 31, 2008).]
Posted by snapper (Member # 7299) on :
Hey ya all,
Thank you, annepin, darklight, and Padric for your crits. I have critiqued Padrics and I'm in the middle of darklights. Annepin, I did get yours and read your first paragraph. I'll get to yours this weekend. Anyone else, go ahead and send it to me. I am headed on vacation next weekend so sooner would be better for me. Snapper
Posted by WriterDan (Member # 6456) on :
All praise and hallelujah! It's done! And even a day ahead of deadline. So, I've sent it out to everyone but KayTi. Can't find your email anywhere, girl. That's probably on purpose though. Drop me a line if you're interested in a little more critique time. I'm very proud to say that my first draft came in at just over 6K words. Probably the shortest thing I've ever written to completeness. Also, I've gotten stories from Frank, Louise, Anne, and Patrick. 3 of the 4 read. Working on putting the crits together. Thanks again everyone. Excited to see how this all comes out. Later.
Posted by snapper (Member # 7299) on :
Hey everyone! How are the rewrites coming? Who is still in? The only one I knoe of for sure in WriterDan. What about the rest? Anyone that didn't get one ready intending to submit something by the 7th for review? Fill me in, I still am struggling with mine but plan on having something ready before the 7th.
Posted by darklight (Member # 5213) on :
Hi snapper, I've decided to give mine another go, about a third of the way through a major revamp and hoping the story will be more complete this time. Time will tell. How about the rest of you?
Posted by WriterDan (Member # 6456) on :
I'm definitely in. So, those planning on having rewrites done by March 7th are:
WriterDan Snapper Darklight
Use the same method of adding your name to the above list as we used before.
Posted by annepin (Member # 5952) on :
WriterDan Snapper Darklight Annepin (though if you don't hear from me by the 7th assume I've fallen off the face of the Earth)
Posted by WriterDan (Member # 6456) on :
<<collecting rope...>>
Holler if you need a line.
Posted by snapper (Member # 7299) on :
Hey everyone,
I am still struggling with my submission but I think it is near completion. I really need to thank you all. I have been using your crits as templates and it is making a difference. If anyone needs help let me know. I owe you all. Will anyone be willing to take an early submit from me? I may have mine finished by this weekend.
Posted by darklight (Member # 5213) on :
Send it over as soon as you like.
I may be asking a lot of questions about my story in the near future. Any help will be great.
Posted by annepin (Member # 5952) on :
Send 'er along whenever she's ready! Same goes for anyone else.
Posted by WriterDan (Member # 6456) on :
I think, in general, anyone would be open to having submissions come in early. If you plan on having them in late (according to our deadline schedule) or you want something above and beyond what we have set up (two crits) then you can ask. Otherwise, send it out! Good luck.
Posted by snapper (Member # 7299) on :
Did everyone get my submission?
Another racker approached me wondering if it's too late for him to join. Anyone object?
Posted by darklight (Member # 5213) on :
Thats ok with me. Yes, I did get your story, sorry I've been so long in getting it back to you. Had one of those weeks. Should get it in a day or so.
Posted by annepin (Member # 5952) on :
Yeah, it's fine with me, too (to have someone new join us.). And yes I got your submission.
Posted by Bent Tree (Member # 7777) on :
I know it is sort of late, but If you guys don't mind a rookie joining in late I would be glad to.
Posted by annepin (Member # 5952) on :
BentTree, are you the mystery person snapper alluded to? I added you to our running list.
Oh, I forgot about Kayti. Would you like a copy of my submission? Yes, BentTree is the guy. He's spotted another contest honoring the late Heinlein. Check out the other thread in 'Groups' if you are interested.
Posted by Bent Tree (Member # 7777) on :
Yeah, I have been in communication with Snapper with the other contest. I was nervous about comming in late, but I have a decent first draft. I can work it in time.
Posted by darklight (Member # 5213) on :
Bent Tree, if you have something ready, feel free to send it my way. I'll try to get it back to you within a few days.
Posted by Bent Tree (Member # 7777) on :
Thanks Darklight. It is in the mail. I realize that I missed early crits, but if anyone needs a pair of fresh eyes feel free to send theirs.
Posted by darklight (Member # 5213) on :
I've critiqued snapper and Bent Tree. Please send the remaining stories along when complete. I'm done but waiting for a final read through before I send it out. Hopefully that will be tomorrow.
Posted by Bent Tree (Member # 7777) on :
My inbox is empty. send em along. I can get to them right away.
Posted by annepin (Member # 5952) on :
Everybody who is ready for crits please send their stories to me. So far I've only got snapper's. I'm going to hustle to get mine in by the 7th but this new job is killing me. Posted by snapper (Member # 7299) on :
Hey Annepin, I got a new job as well. Man is it cutting into my writing/criting hobby. I must apologize to BT. I am in the middle of your submission. I'll get it finished yet. How you coming WD?
[This message has been edited by snapper (edited March 05, 2008).]
Posted by Bent Tree (Member # 7777) on :
No worries Snapper. I need some cool time on that one anyway. Fresh eyes. I have been distracted with other projects. My inbox is still empty though. I haven't yet met WriterDan or KayTi. Let me know if either of you are set to recieve.
Posted by darklight (Member # 5213) on :
I've sent to snapper, annepin, Bent Tree and WriterDan. If anyone hasn't recieved it, let me know.
Posted by WriterDan (Member # 6456) on :
Hey all, sorry I've been out for a while. Had to take a road trip to Cali for a funeral just recently. Going to try and bang out the final finishing touches to my second draft. I've gotten stories from snapper and darklight. Looking for any others. Will get to them as soon as I finish drafting mine. Hello to Bent Tree! Glad you could join up with us. The more the merrier. Been trying to decide how things are going to work with this group as we get bigger. Everything to everybody seems to be working fine so far. Know what you mean about work annepin. Have to finish a paper (for my PhD) for publication by Mar 30th. Not looking forward to the double deadline this month. Luck to everyone. Write, write, write! Later.
Posted by Christopher (Member # 6336) on :
Too late to get in? The second deadline is tomorrow, right? I don't need a line-edit, just a general read-through, general impressions/comments--should make it easier. Please add me to the list.
Oh, and WriterDan, I just sent my story to you. Feel free to send me yours again too.
ADD: Glad to see that this group/idea has taken off. I'm not too busy the next couple of days. I can read a couple of people's stories. Post that you're sending it to me here, then send it to me via my listed e-mail.
[This message has been edited by Christopher (edited March 06, 2008).]
Posted by snapper (Member # 7299) on :
you're welcome to join. Send me yours. If you want to read mine, I could always use another pair of eyes. Let me know.
Posted by Bent Tree (Member # 7777) on :
Christopher, Welcome. I'll send you mine if you send me yours. Sorry couldn't help it.
Posted by Christopher (Member # 6336) on :
Snapper, BentTree, sounds good. My story is on the way. You guys send me yours.
Posted by darklight (Member # 5213) on :
Christopher, you can send yours over if you want another pair of eyes to take a look, I'm not too busy at the moment.
Posted by WriterDan (Member # 6456) on :
New running list of participants for our critique group:
WriterDan KayTi Annepin Snapper Darklight BentTree Christopher
Try to have all crits back by the 14th at the latest. Everyone'll need the last two weeks for their final polishing. Good luck.
Posted by WriterDan (Member # 6456) on :
Okay, I've sent my story out once again. Hope it's better this time around.
I've received stories from snapper, darklight, BentTree, and Christopher. Annepin's is coming, I know. And I haven't seen hide nor hair of KayTi in a long time. Anyone know about her?
Posted by snapper (Member # 7299) on :
I've got everyones except, kayti and annepins, I suspect Kayti has dropped but I bet Annepin is still with us. I'll get to everyones, I promise. this new job has kept me busy.
Man is this thread getting long. Back to BT's crit.
Posted by Christopher (Member # 6336) on :
Thanks, Darklight. I just sent you my story.
Posted by annepin (Member # 5952) on :
Yes, I'm still here. I've critted snapper's and Bent Tree's stuff, am working on Darklight's, and have received WriterDan's. Christopher, send me your stuff.
I'm hoping to work on my submission today and tomorrow, so it will be a little late. Sorry.
Posted by snapper (Member # 7299) on :
Take your time, annepin. After that wonderful critique you gave me you can count on a crit from me the day before the deadline if you need it.
[This message has been edited by snapper (edited March 08, 2008).]
Posted by darklight (Member # 5213) on :
I'm up to date now, just waiting for annepin's story, whenever you're ready.
Snapper, something you said to me in your critique that I didn't really get at the time hit me yesterday like a potato around the head. In the process of changing it now. Thank you, and to everyone else too, who's helped me. I'm beginning to think this story may have been worth all the pain.
Posted by KayTi (Member # 5137) on :
Sorry guys. I did drop off the face of the earth - I've been preoccupied with non-writing things, including a visit of influenza to the house. Luckily it only took out the youngest, although it meant a week of house arrest for me. You'd think that would mean more writing time but, alas, that hasn't been the case. Lots of scooby-doo got watched, though.
I feel terrible for those who have sent me files - I am just way behind. Would you like for me to do a final readthrough? If so, please send your latest draft. My email is my handle plus the number99, I don't post it here.
I still don't know if I'll enter this quarter. I have the story partly formed, probably about 1k words and a rough sketch of the rest but I think it's going to be 10k when it's done, and I'm not sure I have the time to write and POLISH 10k. Writing the 10k isn't the hard part, but polishing it is. It's been a terrible quarter for me for writing, ugh. I've been doing a lot more non-fiction lately, which is fine and good but not helpful here knocking on the door of the next deadline.
So - don't wait up nights waiting for my MS, but I'll check back in if I'm able to finish it to see if anyone's up for a fast read, seeing as how I'm already down to the wire.
Again, my apologies for going radio silent. Didn't mean to - just one of those things.
Posted by Bent Tree (Member # 7777) on :
Feel free to send it anytime, if you decide to enter. I can usually turn one in a day or two.
Posted by darklight (Member # 5213) on :
I know it's getting late in this quarter (only fourteen days until they have to be in the post) but taking advice from a number of crituqers, I've changed my story a bit - well, I've changed it a lot. I have a new, new first scene, changed the main story from third to first person POV and will hopfully soon have a final scene to tie it all up.
So, would anyone be willing to give the story a final read through. I'm hoping to have it finished in the next couple of days, but it may be longer since I started a new job today, and it's pretty tiring.
Much thanks to anyone willing to read again.
Posted by Bent Tree (Member # 7777) on :
I can Darklight. I need a reader also. I did a complete makeover on my entry. Send yours over when you are finished
Posted by darklight (Member # 5213) on :
Thanks a million Bent Tree. Send yours over to me. I should be able to get to by Wednesday, Thursday at the latest if that's not too late.
Posted by snapper (Member # 7299) on :
Hey Everybody. It's been a long since I checked in, new job has kept me away. I got mine completed. Thank you to you all, especially Annepin. With all of your help, I now have something I can proudly submit. Don't know if it will go anywhere but I'm ready for whatever happens. Darklight, what did I say that hit you over the head like a potato? Send over your final version, I'm really curious now.
Posted by WriterDan (Member # 6456) on :
I'm open for another read through. More than happy to do it for anyone.
Posted by Bent Tree (Member # 7777) on :
I might take you up on that Dan. I'm almost finished with a complete rewrite. I chose to stick with the intro character as the MC, but I changed it to develop her character and the plot better.
Posted by KayTi (Member # 5137) on :
Happy to crit anyone's, since I haven't done any of the crits I promised. That way in a few more days when mine is finished I might not feel quite as guilty.
If you have my email addy (my handle + 99) please send it over. If you don't, I can email you via your profile (I don't post my email. Allergic to spam.)
I am working on mine today, but just discovered that my daughter's school is out tomorrow AND thursday, which blows the last 4 hours I expected to have to work on this before spring break next week. Sigh. I am going to have to find some other time.
Posted by darklight (Member # 5213) on :
You guys are great. I should be sending out my third and final revised version of this story some time this evening.
snapper, it was the comment about the dialogue that suddenly made sense to me while reading back the story. Thanks for pointing it out, I might not have realised had you not. No idea why I wrote it that way. Let's hope it's better this time.
Thanks to everyone who's willing to crit again. Send your stories to me if any of you need another read through. I have a four day weekend after tomorrow so have plenty of time.
Posted by annepin (Member # 5952) on :
Well, I'm still going to try to enter, though I don't know if I'll be able to get my story done in time for folks to crit. Thanks to all of you who offered, even at the last minute (snapper!). I'm just swamped for time right now. I'm squeezing in an hour here and an hour there but my schedule has just been all whacked to heck now.
Posted by snapper (Member # 7299) on :
Feel free to send your script, annepin. I'm free if you like to send yours as well, BT. I got a free weekend for you.
Posted by WriterDan (Member # 6456) on :
Only four days left peoples!!! Let's get movin! Grab those red pens. Make your manuscript bleed! Make it the best story you've ever written. And then, Monday night when you're sitting, exhausted, head spinning from too much caffeine and not enough sleep, you can lay your head on your pillow and wish you could pass out into that neverwhere of rest and relaxation but not be able to. Only then can you enjoy a few hours of respite before its off and on to newer and better things. So dig in! In the end, it'll be worth it. Show yourself what you can do. Luck to all.
Posted by Bent Tree (Member # 7777) on :
My eyes are bleeding. My fingers long for the speed of writing, and threaten to wrap themselves around of this editor that restrains them which is me.
BTW Vista SUCKS!
I am having trouble formatting the MS. This is new to me.
Posted by darklight (Member # 5213) on :
I'm done! Its printed and in the envelope ready to be mailed.
quote:BTW Vista SUCKS!
I couldn't agree more. I had my new laptop, complete with Vista less than twenty four hours before I packed it up and sent it back. Then spent a whole day trying to find one that came with Windows XP. (Needless to say, I succeeded.)
Posted by Khalan (Member # 5950) on :
Good luck everyone, we're all pulling for you.
Posted by annepin (Member # 5952) on :
Gah! Where does the time go? Somehow I convinced myself that I have a whole 'nother week to work on this. Then my time-stopping-device-thingy broke... Time for emergency measures!
Posted by Patrick James (Member # 7847) on :
Hey, anne, when you get that time-stopping-device-thingy fixed, tell me... I would very much like to use it. Posted by WriterDan (Member # 6456) on :
There are a lot of us here, annepin, that are still open to help with a last-minute read-through. Doesn't matter for me when it comes. I'll drop and read it for you. Luck!
Posted by snapper (Member # 7299) on :
I'm available as well. Send what you got. I'm here for you.
Posted by darklight (Member # 5213) on :
Good luck to everyone who's entering this quarter. Don't forget to keep us posted on how you do.
Are we starting a new group for the next quarter?
Posted by Robert Nowall (Member # 2764) on :
Yes, best of luck, everybody. Even though I don't do it---there's no reason for me to go into that again---I wish the lot of you the best of luck with it.
Posted by snapper (Member # 7299) on :
quote:Are we starting a new group for the next quarter?
Absolutely! Someone just need to start a new thread
[This message has been edited by snapper (edited March 30, 2008).]
Posted by darklight (Member # 5213) on :
Well, come April 1st, I might just do that!
Posted by annepin (Member # 5952) on :
snapper and writer dan, thanks so much for your support. you guys are the bestest ever! the thing is, i haven't had time to really revise anything. i think i'll just take this as a learning experience and try to get a head start on next quarter. i've just been inundated by life changes this quarter--got to find my feet starting April 1.
Posted by WriterDan (Member # 6456) on :
Sounds good, annepin. That's what I ended up having to do with my story from last quarter too. Only that was my fault. I kept making MAJOR changes to it. And then I bailed on it. Sheesh. Anyhow, hope you'll stick with us for next quarter.
As for the new thread, I was planning on starting another one for next quarter just after I mail my manuscript off. (Yes, I'm still making finishing touches. I'm such a freak. lol) Setup should be the same. Will look for everyone to sign up. Thanks again for all of the help that everyone gave me, and for everyone's willingness to make this group work.
Good luck to everyone!
Posted by InarticulateBabbler (Member # 4849) on :
Good luck to everyone that made it. Sorry I couln't be a more active part of this group, thanks to those of this group that helped me out. (If anyone's curious I cut 9 pages worth, ending up with 13,500 words.)
Posted by Bent Tree (Member # 7777) on :
Good Luck All. It was a good feeling sealing that heavy envelope and kissing it goodbye. To top it, when I got home there was an acceptance in my inbox from AlienSkin. "Shopping in Denver" will be my first time in print.
Posted by KayTi (Member # 5137) on :
I didn't make it. I have a really solid start (2500 words) of what is probably an 8k word story, but I just didn't have the time these last few weeks. It's been a crazy start of the year, I think I need to work harder at scheduling my writing time. I've been bouncing between a bunch of different projects, and fiction falls by the wayside when I've got other stuff to write.
But, there are other quarters, and other contests. I'm going to keep moving with some other nifty ideas. I'm also still reading Story by McKee which keeps giving me meaty ideas for how to work with my stories to give them the maximum impact. I almost feel like if I could just power through the rest of that book (I am slow because I like to take lengthy notes of parts that are particularly helpful to me, and because usually it gets read in the twice weekly 45 mins I have while the kids are in gymnastics and tae kwon do, LOL) I'd be a much better writer. Funny how that insecurity creeps in.
At any rate, good luck to everyone who was able to mail off one of those thick envelopes! Congrats for meeting the goal of entering. It's a great goal, and I wish everyone the best of luck.
Posted by darklight (Member # 5213) on :
Thanks to all who helped me get my story into some kind of shape for this quarter. It was certainly a learning curve for me. You guys are great and I'm looking forward to the next quarter. Congrats Bent Tree on your first story in print, hope its the first of many.
Thanks too, to everyone who's wished us luck.
[This message has been edited by darklight (edited March 31, 2008).]
Posted by Tiergan (Member # 7852) on :
Good luck all.
Posted by snapper (Member # 7299) on :
Good luck to everyone. Everyone did a splendid job with there submissions. Anyone care to make a guess at whichone has the best shot of capturing first place this quarter? Of the ones in our group I am voting for WriterDan. A great piece. I wouldn't be at all surprised if you got an honor though.
Hey BT! What a coincidence! My micro-fiction got accepted too! Second time for Alienskin for me.
Posted by WriterDan (Member # 6456) on :
And it's off!! Not so thick though. Ended up cutting it down to nearly 6K words. Phew. A sigh of relief, and now I can sleep again.
IAB. When did you show up? Thought you were out for the quarter? Anyhow, glad you got something in. Joining us for next quarter? Hope so.
Luck to those that have yet to go. The time deadline is quickly rushing across the US. Make it in! Later.
Posted by InarticulateBabbler (Member # 4849) on :
I planned to be out, but a story came up and demanded attention. It smacked me around until I wrote it, and well, the rest is...
Posted by Christopher (Member # 6336) on :
I want to put in my thanks too. The Buddhist Tree is a much better story after the crits. Thanks to everyone who gave me feedback.
I'm putting in a vote for Dan's story too.
I think it's the type of story the contest is looking for. It should do well.
NOTE: If it doesn't place, Dan, you should submit it to other places. It was a fun story to read and crit. I hope it gets read by bunches of people.
Alright...is everyone gearing up for next quarter? This critique group is hummin' along good now. With all of us critiquing each others stories (all the brain power we've got focused on the task), I think it is just a matter of time before someone places in the contest.
Thanks to everyone.
Let's keep on keepin' on.
[This message has been edited by Christopher (edited March 31, 2008).]
Posted by WriterDan (Member # 6456) on :
First round of QF awards for Q02. Didn't see anyone's name that I recognized. The two from Utah gave my heart a lurch before I read the names. Sheesh. You'd think I'd get used to this.
Posted by InarticulateBabbler (Member # 4849) on :
Joni will call you to get permission before she posts your name--she decided last quarter that she's going to get hold of everyone she can by phone. If she doesn't call you (or get you by email), she won't post your name.
Posted by WriterDan (Member # 6456) on :
Yeah. I read that on the WotF forum the other day after posting. Still, it's exciting to know that the first QF's are coming in. Posted by WriterDan (Member # 6456) on :
Congratulations on the HM, Patrick James! Woo-hoo!! Our first award of the group!
Posted by InarticulateBabbler (Member # 4849) on :
Ditto. Posted by darklight (Member # 5213) on :
Thanks to everyone in this group that helped me get my story good enough for an HM! I couldn't have done it without you guys!
Posted by Patrick James (Member # 7847) on :
Congrats darklight!
I don't remember critting yours(I wasn't in the group that quarter), but I look forward to helping you out next time. I have heard a lot about your talent--it's said that you're bound to be a winner, one of these times. Keep trying.
Posted by Christopher (Member # 6336) on :
quote:Congratulations on the HM, Patrick James! Woo-hoo!! Our first award of the group!
Good job, Patrick and Darklight. Our first awards for the group....hopefully with many more to come.
[This message has been edited by Christopher (edited May 17, 2008).]
Posted by WriterDan (Member # 6456) on :
So, am I allowed to be ornery and despondent yet if I haven't gotten a call about my story from Q02? This is seriously killing me.
Ah, and congrats to darklight! Another HM for the group! Dang we're amazing. Good going darklight! Glad to see you listed there with your name in lights. On to next quarter, eh? Let's keep moving on up.
Posted by darklight (Member # 5213) on :
Thanks everyone!
As I said before, WriterDan, not hearing means nothing. I didn't get an email or a call, just found my name up there on the blog (after a tip off from an esteemed member of Hatrack )
Got my fingers crossed for you - yours was a very good story.
Posted by WriterDan (Member # 6456) on :
Well I might end up curling into a ball and sucking my thumb until Wednesday night then. Ugh. Wonder if posting your name without contacting you first was a goof or if they have some method to their madness of contacting some but not all.
So far I've read of two people who have gotten the "finalist" call for Q02 (Utah & Oregon). Nothing on the semi-finalist front yet though.
And thanks for trying to cheer me up darklight. I appreciate it.
------------------------------------------------------------------- ***As Advertised: New author willing to doubt self for little to no money down. Call now! Operators are standing by... -------------------------------------------------------------------
Posted by Christopher (Member # 6336) on :
[as also posted in 'open discussion about writing']
Just got my rejection letter today.
My story didn't have a lot of speculative stuff at the beginning.
I decided to risk it. Probably not a great idea.
I'm thinking that, due to that, it might not have even been read beyond the first page or two.
Oh, well. I still like the story.
Already workin' hard on next quarter.
Posted by WriterDan (Member # 6456) on :
Got my response today.
Letter: Thank you for entering. Your story did not win this quarter.
I'm at a loss for words. Not that I thought I'd bring home the gold or anything, but I thought I'd at least get an HM. So, after four hours of self-deprecatory meanderings, I think I'm going to go lay down and catch up on some of the sleep that I've been missing. Please excuse my absence if I don't surface for a few days.
Posted by annepin (Member # 5952) on :
I'm kinda shocked actually, WriterDan. I thought you were a shoo-in for an HM, at the very least. Your story was darn good! I hope you'll submit it elsewhere.
Posted by Kathleen Dalton Woodbury (Member # 59) on :
quote:I hope you'll submit it elsewhere.
Amen! I hope all of you who have submitted and not won will submit your stories elsewhere. Writers of the Future is only one market, and while it pays quite well, there are other paying markets out there. And some of them are more respected than WotF, even if they don't pay as much.
Posted by darklight (Member # 5213) on :
I'm really sorry to hear that, Dan. I too am shocked. You should definatly sub it around.
I'd like to sub mine too, but since its quite long, not sure there's many markets for it.
Good luck this quater to everyone!
Posted by Bugaboo (Member # 7996) on :
I just joined Hatrack, but I have a story in for Q2. Read on WOTF blog they were calling the semi-finalists and finalists over the weekend. My phone was quiet, of course, so I know I didn't place. It's great you have a special place for WOTF contestants. I expect to be frequenting it. Maybe, not so much for Q3 though. My story just isn't working out and I've lost interest in it. Q4, definitely.
Posted by tnwilz (Member # 4080) on :
Listen. Those of you who got letters when others are saying they are surprised because it seemed like a quality piece. Obviously KD Wentworth felt that there is something wrong with it because she is not stingy with HM's. You should put it back up for crit and let us see if we can figure it out by consensus. I would be happy to read and give my opinion as to what it may be that threw her. Have a few others look as well and if you see some consistency than you can remove the kink and send it in again (they allow that once) or submit it elsewhere. It would be healthy for the group to identify the problem as this helps everyone grow - a real writers workshop kind of move. Just a suggestion.
Tracy
Edit to add: I only say this because I work and work on a single piece until I have no kinks left that anyone can find. Whether you would want to do this, depends greatly on if there was a strong storyline or not. Most of my pieces have a strong storyline. If you have a piece that had a fairly casual storyline and relied heavily on the merits of the writing, then I agree you should move on. If it was a great idea with strong plot then I think you should try and fix it, otherwise, what a waste.
If you got an HM or a letter, then only KD Wentworth saw it. She is the sole judge up to that point. If you got an HM, that means she found little wrong with the quality of writing but the story was too weak when stacked against the competition. Remember that she can only send 8 stories forward to other judges. If you got an HM you need not worry because that means you may only have been the victim of an extremely strong quarter. She is saying, you’re a contender.
If you got a letter, she is saying, you are not a contender. Now yes, that’s her opinion but she does this a lot! So time to suck it up like a good writer and ask, why was I not a contender? I my opinion you need to figure that out to truly move on.
Many people who attend Bootcamp come back saying things like, I was starting my stories in the wrong place, or I have great ideas but my characters lack intriguing motive or attitude so the audience assumes weak ones. It could even be simple grammatical errors, which is easiest of all for the group to find. I understand the frustration but perhaps some of you may be missing opportunity here.
[This message has been edited by tnwilz (edited May 20, 2008).]
Posted by annepin (Member # 5952) on :
Well, there might not be anything patently "wrong" with it. It simply might not be what the judges are looking for. WotF is a great opportunity, but it's not the only publication, and each publication has their preferences.
I'm thinking back on Heinlein's rules here. Once you've polished it it might simply be better to move on to the next piece, rather than retinkering with the whole thing again.
<shrugs> My two cents.
[This message has been edited by annepin (edited May 20, 2008).]
Posted by Bent Tree (Member # 7777) on :
Dan, I am shocked also. IGMS might be a good market to submit that story. You won't have a hard time getting it in print somewhere.
Posted by arriki (Member # 3079) on :
"Redlight" made semi-finalist.
Posted by Christopher (Member # 6336) on :
Redlight? Whose story was this? If it was someone here in our group, you should let us read the critique--and the story again. I'd love to hear what Kathy's thoughts were on the story's strong points and weak points.
Posted by arriki (Member # 3079) on :
It's mine. I wasn't part of the group, just been reading your posts.
I've been busy with the Heinlein contest and that group. I'm thinking of sending Ghosts of the Void there. Getting near the wire so I've been obsessing over the opening a bit.
I think the story -- which was one of those in my self-challenge of a story a week -- needs to simmer awhile on the back brain so sending it off to the Heinlein contest who'll keep it for a year is probably a good idea.
Redlight, on the other hand, is going out again after I've heard about its flaws from WOTF. It's been rejected summarily by all the magazines so it's going to another contest.
Posted by tnwilz (Member # 4080) on :
Success as a writer involves both talent and drive. You can't make it without both. The writers with the best imaginations are the ones with the best chance for a career, but the drive to hone your skills and keep submitting your work in the face of rejection is crucial. I have belonged to a writer's group for almost twenty years now and in that time I have seen far more writers without enough drive than without enough talent.
KD Wentworth from the forum
Posted by arriki (Member # 3079) on :
Oh, oh, OH!!!!!
I can't believe it! The only reason "Redlight" did not make it to the finals is that at the bottom of page three a line was dropped. The last three words of a sentence somehow didn't get printed even though they are in the file on my computer!!!
That's it! That's all that was wrong!!
Argh!!!!!!!
Posted by WriterDan (Member # 6456) on :
Just re-emphasizes the fact that the stories this past quarter were all really good ones, like Kathy said. That's too bad. still, you have to know that your story was good. On to the next.
Good luck.
