Susan spoke about the proper ways to submit your writing, whether it be a manuscript, essay, short story, or a magazine article. It was suprising to hear how many writers just don't do it professionally and totally ignore a publication's requirements. She had us laughing over some of the ridiculous things she's come across as an editor and publisher. One big note: If you're also a scrapbooker...DON'T stamp cutsie things all over your paper! Be professional.
At the end of her session, she had us participate in a poetry writing exercise. I won't go into all of it, but it was fun and there were some wonderful poems written. I tried to get her to accept mine to share with other classes, as an example of either How To Not Write a Poem....or Winner of the Worst Poem Contest. I could see in her eyes, she seriously considered it. Since she didn't, I'll post it at the end. (By the way, I apologize for not having a photo of Susan. I forgot to take pictures during her presentation. The link I provided, though, goes directly to a page all about Susan and contains a great photo.)
Steve writes a column titled, "Pokin Around". How perfect is that? How'd he get so lucky to be born with a name to go with his column?! His are human interest stories. The link I provided above is a good example of what he writes. I was happy to see this article, because just a week ago, I drove past the "tree" in his story, and wondered What the heck? (I am one who thinks it's a great tree.)
Steve was also the journalist who broke the story about Megan Meier, a St. Charles County teenager who committed suicide after being the subject of a cruel hoax on My Space in 2007. Steve brought copies of that edition and talked about his interviews with Megan's grieving parents during that time. His story was like the shot heard 'round the world. Surely no matter where you live, you've heard the extremely sad story.
To Be Continued.................
I'm so pleased the workshop was a success! I'm sure you left feeling inspired.
ReplyDeleteSounds like a fun workshop. I was looking forward to reading your poem.
ReplyDeleteI think I told you that I wrote a novel back in the late 80's. I sent a query letter to about 15 publishing houses. One publisher actually asked me to send the first three chapters, but in the end they weren't interested.
ReplyDeleteYou talk here about sending professional queries, etc. Well, on the flip side, you would be amazed at how un-professional the rejection letters were. They were generally photocopied letters, some with low ink/toner, so you could hardly read the letter. One letter had been sent out askew...not sure if the paper went into the copier sideways, or if the original was put on the screen sideways...but whatever, they sent me the most un-professional of letters...diagonally printed on a piece of paper with a bent corner. Talk about no class!!!
Blessings to you,
Patti
Sounds like a great meeting! I'm one of Steve Pokin's fans. Also am sorry I missed the talk about proper manuscripts. When I submit things, I do often wonder if I'm doing something wrong. Seems like the rules either vary a lot or keep changing.
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