Monday, May 23, 2005

Viable Alternatives

For some reason, I have this notion in my mind that if I throw enough money at my novel, I'll get the Magic Key which will unlock all the knowledge I need to become a successful writer. A couple months ago I paid a book doctor to review my manuscript to tell me whether I was even close or if I had a long way to go. He told me the book was probably saleable as is, and that I didn't really need his editorial services. Then I flip through the folder containing all the rejections I've gotten so far and say to myself, "Argh!"

Anyway, this time, I've applied to Viable Paradise. It looks like exactly the workshop I need, and the instructors obviously know what they're talking about. Not everyone who applies will get in. I suppose they take people who have promise, who are far enough along in honing their skills and not rank beginners. I could be wrong, of course, but that's the impression I get. It'll be a good 4 weeks before I get a thumbs up or down, and until then, I'll submit some short fiction to the SF/Fantasy online workshop, and finish up my Writer's Digest novel course. If I don't get in this year, I'll apply again next year. But I prefer to think positively: I don't totally suck, and I will get in. :)