I've recently had a couple of queries about writing qualifications - are they necessary, what is my experience, what qualification do I have?
Well to answer the last question first - I actually have a university degree, BUT, it bears no relevance to writing, my degree is in science and technology - totally unrelated. My writing qualifications have been acquired through studying numerous books on the craft and taking a distance learning course on creative writing - and several years application of that study.
Limited success
Like most authors, I suffered many rejection slips before finding limited success. My first short story was accepted by a women's magazine way back in 1994. Since then I've been lucky enough to be published regularly in magazines, international newspapers, summer specials, international competitions, anthologies, to have my work read on Prime-time radio and a selection of short stories recorded as audio books. My novel, Without Reproach, was accepted and published by Libros International Publishers.
Need to study
Nothing worthwhile comes easy. If it was easy, everyone would be doing it..... and everyone ain't.
I would never advise anyone to tackle writing without studying at least a couple of books about the craft first. Do artists paint, do musicians play, without studying? Do actors get accepted without studying? NO!
Writing is no different, you need to understand the principles involved before beginning to write .... and after the study comes work. All artforms need dedication and graft. If there ain't no pain, there ain't no gain. If you're serious about writing, it needs doing. Live with it.
Sorry folks. There are no shortcuts .... except in stories ....
- Next post on Tell Me a Story.
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