I have to confess to not being on the write page for this month’s Insecure Writer’s Support Group post. OK, I’m still willing to ask where would I be without the Ninja Captain himself, Alex J. Cavanaugh who created the Insecure Writer’s Support Group?
But I must admit to pulling out of the race to create an entry for the annual Anthology Competition. Many thanks, Captain Alex, but not this time.
However, before I forget, here are the details if you want to enter the 2020 IWSG Anthology Contest. It’s a challenging theme again – Dark Matter –but I’m sure you’ll be inspired. For the contest visit:
https://www.insecurewriterssupportgroup.com/p/the-2019-annual-iwsg-anthology-contest.html
My mind is insecure and struggling enough with my Sparkle Anwyl cases. Plus, I’m totally snowed under with the mounting emails and outstanding blog posts to read. So, apologies and more apologies to all that may concern.
Anyway, on to the monthly question which is another challenge – and possibly a chance to digress.
August 5 question – Quote: “Although I have written a short story collection, the form found me and not the other way around. Don’t write short stories, novels or poems. Just write your truth and your stories will mould into the shapes they need to be.”
Have you ever written a piece that became a form, or even a genre, you hadn’t planned on writing in? Or do you choose a form/genre in advance?
I rarely stray from my chosen genre, although I moved from fantasy and SF shorts as a teenager to crime/mystery novels as a retiree. With a few exceptions, although Crime has merged with my Speculative and Alternative History diversions.
The main exception was my MG short ‘Feathered Fire’ for the Voyagers: The Third Ghostanthology. That was my only attempt at writing Middle Grade or historical – although, not fantasy.
However, my intention is to remain in my current genre – Crime – even if the form fluctuates between novel and shorts/flash.
But for NaNoWriMo this November, I may consider writing a longer piece with my characters from ‘Feathered Fire’.
Unless Crime never sleeps.
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The awesome co-hosts for the August 5 posting of the IWSG are Susan Baury Rouchard, Nancy Gideon, Jennifer Lane, Jennifer Hawes, Chemist Ken, and Chrys Fey!
How can I be repetitive asking you to agree these guys are the best? Especially as they all have concerns, fears, and insecurities. But they struggle on, so ticker-tape applause for all of them – plus toasts with the best brew available.
Purpose of IWSG: To share and encourage. Writers can express doubts and concerns without fear of appearing foolish or weak. Those who have been through the fire can offer assistance and guidance. It’s a safe haven for insecure writers of all kinds!
Every month, we announce a question that members can answer in their IWSG post. These questions may prompt you to share advice, insight, a personal experience or story. Include your answer to the question in your IWSG post or let it inspire your post if you are struggling with something to say.
Posting: The first Wednesday of every month is officially Insecure Writer’s Support Group day. Post your thoughts on your own blog. Talk about your doubts and the fears you you have conquered. Discuss your struggles and triumphs. Offer a word of encouragement for others who are struggling. Visit others in the group and connect with your fellow writer – aim for a dozen new people each time – and return comments. This group is all about connecting!
Let’s rock the neurotic writing world!
Our Twitter handle is @TheIWSG and hashtag is #IWSG.
Every month, we announce a question that members can answer in their IWSG post. These questions may prompt you to share advice, insight, a personal experience, or story. Include your answer to the question in your IWSG post or let it inspire your post if you are struggling with something to say.
Writing Wings 
Sorry you won’t be entering this year. But you did rock it with Feathered Fire.
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Thanks Alex for your generous praise. I had an idea for Dark Matter but no time to work on it – other priorities.
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It is a challenging theme this time, or maybe that’s just me, since it’s a challenging time. But I drafted something, and I’m not giving up yet! Good luck with clearing the decks so you can focus on your writing again.
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A challenge and although I had a rough sketch, time constraints ditched it. However, I’m ready to read yours whenever you want a beta reader. As for clearing the decks, I’m letting the flood rise while I focus on the writing.
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I think it’s challenging too. What I’ve written so far seems like rubbish, but I’m soldiering on.
Your Feathered Fore was wonderful, Roland. Relieved you’re giving some of the rest of us a chance 😉
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Many thanks, Jemima for your comment about ‘Feathered Fire’. I admit the fails outnumber the single win. I hope your entry is a winner this time.
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Fails always outnumber wins, until you get to be Stephen King 🙂 Apologies for the typo. 🙂
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Sometimes life gets more than a little overwhelming. I am very glad that you have recognised it and are stepping away from some of your self imposed tasks.
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You are right, Sue – the ‘overwhelm’ was self-imposed. So, self-decluttering is helping.
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Roland, I love the idea of your doing a longer post with your “Feathered Fire” characters during NaMoWriMo! I want to know so much more about them. The anthology contest ~ I still have to write my story ~ LOL. I have not learned! Leopards don’t change their spots! You have so much on the go ~ You are an inspiration!
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First, Louise, if you need a beta reader, I’m still available – reading Rebecca D’s at the moment.
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Second, I’m not sure whether to write something that picks up after Feathered Fire (if they reach the West) or before – for instance, when the purge killed the parents. What do you think?
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I had to cut way back on my blogging to avoid getting overwhelmed. Even then, it took me almost a month to visit those who had visited me last IWSG. Hope you find peace of mind and a breath of fresh air, especially with this current heat wave.
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Congratulations on reading them, Loni – and thanks for visiting. I’ve still got dozens to read…from dozens of months I fear. AC ensures heat is bearable – just.
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Good luck Roland. I guess it’s okay to decide not to do something once in a while. Sometimes not doing everything helps.
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My decision is proving to be wise, Sonia – thanks. Although, life has a way of adding new interruptions/distractions/commitments…………………..
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It’s great that you’ve found what works for you. Good luck!
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It’s taken some years, Diane – thanks for the luck-wish.
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I’ve never attempted middle grade writing. That must have been quite a stretch from crime stories. Congrats on your success.
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Took some preparation, Lori – especially as I have no kids of my own. But I got there – thanks.
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It’s great that you are figuring out what works for you. Take care.
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Finally, I’ve learnt some sense, Damyanti _ I hope.
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I also tend to return to my usual genre, even if I try to write something outside of it. Not always, but often.
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That’s probably the best approach, Shannon – a usual and occasional sidetracks/diversions.
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When I was younger I was really into SciFi. Now I’ve got more of an interest in reality which I think encompasses crime and mystery pretty well. Not that I’m writing, but I think about writing someday. Unfortunately, just thinking about something doesn’t get it done. But writing is on my mind.
Arlee Bird
Tossing It Out
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Strange we’ve both moved to reality/crime, Arlee – although I admit to dipping into fantasy often. With your music, aren’t you still a writer – a songwriter?
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I’ve been starting a lot of songs which I tend not to finish. At least I have the opening ideas on paper with melodies recorded on my phone. But unfinished business seems to often be the story of my life.
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Ideas that may bear fruit – or as in my case become the legacy.
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