As someone mired in the task of submitting short stories, this is so helpful, thank you. I like both your putting-things-in-perspective intro (96% of books published by the Big 5 sell <1000) and your tip "As soon as I’ve finished the story, I go back and cut the first paragraph or two. Just to see if it works better that way. Nine times out of ten, it does." Often the story starts in the middle, so true.
A few months ago, I joined a couple of critique groups on Meetup. The experience has been invaluable. Now, I often write with the critiques in mind for subsequent stories (what is the setting? is this an infodump?) Also have CritiqueCircle and The Critiquery on my list.
I helpful to anyone, I use Chillsubs to find publications (https://www.chillsubs.com/). I did place one story with Roi F.
Wow, I found quite a bit of information that I can use—looking forward to Part 2. Thanks, Maryan, for asking Charlie to contribute, and thanks, Charlie, for sharing your expertise. Bob
Rich territory for flash fiction. Finding a bone may prompt us to reflect on our mortality. By the sound of it, it was an event that stuck with you - as if discovering one of nature's secrets became part of your journey to adulthood?
I really appreciate you taking the time to comment on my work. It’s my first time sharing something like this and I’m super new to Substack. There was definitely a lot of symbolism at play whilst I wrote this and the theme of ‘shaping our journey’ was at the forefront of my mind.
Wonderful, helpful information. I truly appreciate the links. Thank you!
Glad I could be of help!
As someone mired in the task of submitting short stories, this is so helpful, thank you. I like both your putting-things-in-perspective intro (96% of books published by the Big 5 sell <1000) and your tip "As soon as I’ve finished the story, I go back and cut the first paragraph or two. Just to see if it works better that way. Nine times out of ten, it does." Often the story starts in the middle, so true.
A few months ago, I joined a couple of critique groups on Meetup. The experience has been invaluable. Now, I often write with the critiques in mind for subsequent stories (what is the setting? is this an infodump?) Also have CritiqueCircle and The Critiquery on my list.
I helpful to anyone, I use Chillsubs to find publications (https://www.chillsubs.com/). I did place one story with Roi F.
Thank you again!
Congratulations on placing a story with Roi Faineant - may it be the first of many more!
Thank you so much, Charlie!
Wow, I found quite a bit of information that I can use—looking forward to Part 2. Thanks, Maryan, for asking Charlie to contribute, and thanks, Charlie, for sharing your expertise. Bob
That’s the basis of Pen2Profit—to bring writers all the helpful help I can find. You’re welcome :)
My pleasure! This seems like a great community.
I’d like to leave my link to my tiny peace of flash fiction, based on a bone found in a car park! https://substack.com/@northwitchmeg/note/c-143943264?r=5zpscp&utm_medium=ios&utm_source=notes-share-action
Thanks for reading—we’re so happy to have Charlie’s expertise!
Rich territory for flash fiction. Finding a bone may prompt us to reflect on our mortality. By the sound of it, it was an event that stuck with you - as if discovering one of nature's secrets became part of your journey to adulthood?
I really appreciate you taking the time to comment on my work. It’s my first time sharing something like this and I’m super new to Substack. There was definitely a lot of symbolism at play whilst I wrote this and the theme of ‘shaping our journey’ was at the forefront of my mind.