Sometimes writing advice really hits at the right time, and you read something about writing process that seems so true. In the beginnings of starting to write, I found it difficult to appreciate much of the wisdom on process. With hindsight, I do believe that writing publishable work is something that is learned gradually through trial and error, and mostly through some success and much rejection (damn it!). Here are some resources providing advice on writing short stories that I've found useful.
Short story master class with Joseph O'Connor from Thresholds here Thresholds is also an excellent general resource on the short story - homepage here from University of Chichester.
Principles of a Story by Raymond Carver here
Some story advice with great illustrations: 8 Tips For Creating Great Stories From George R.R. Martin, Junot Diaz,
And Other Top Storytellers here
And, because I love his short stories, the always interesting Kevin Barry being interviewed at The Paris Review. He discusses his writing and writing process here
Last but certainly not least, congratulations to Billy O'Callaghan on winning the Writing.ie Short Story Award 2013 - here are the shortlisted stories Some very strong competition, well done Billy, I was mightily impressed by your story.
Last but certainly not least, congratulations to Billy O'Callaghan on winning the Writing.ie Short Story Award 2013 - here are the shortlisted stories Some very strong competition, well done Billy, I was mightily impressed by your story.
And, of course, there's no substitute for buying, and reading good short stories.
Dear Deirdre,
ReplyDeleteMany thanks for the congratulations, and I am delighted you enjoyed my story. Needless to say, I am over the moon with my win, especially since the shortlist was so strong.
Kindest regards, and best wishes with your own writing,
Billy O'Callaghan
You are very welcome, Billy. Well done again, and keep writing those marvellous stories.
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