Since coming to Gather about a month ago, I’ve enjoyed sharing stories about the writers I’ve met and the advice they have to share about writing -- writers like John Irving, Tom Wolfe, E.L. Doctorow, Alice McDermott, David McCullough, Neil Gaiman, Alexander McCall Smith, John Sanford, and Stephen King.
I’ve also enjoyed sharing some of my own writing advice with you. And some of my writing, such as articles, interviews, excerpts from novels, and short fiction that I've had published. I’ve especially enjoyed sharing news about the progress of TRACKS, my novel in stories.
In both comments and private messages, I’ve been asked several times whether I plan to enter TRACKS into the Gather First Chapters Contest. My answers have varied with mood, from probably not to maybe to probably. The manuscript is currently being reviewed by a literary agent. But all of the encouragement I've received from my friends, colleagues and readers here at Gather have certainly greased the tracks of thought.
Although I’m not committed to making an announcement about entering the race at this juncture, I am considering it. I suppose this is akin to establishing an exploratory committee to look into the matter. I’ll talk to my friends and fellow writers and explore the possibility.
Do you think I should enter TRACKS into the competition? Would readers hop on board?
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Comments: 18
Carol
If you have posted a story on this site, I apologize that I missed it.
However, I think anyone fortunate and talented enough to place as a finalist in this or most any substantial novel contest does have something worth mentioning in query letters.
IF I were to win (wishful dreaming) I would not ask an agent to negotiate on my behalf at that time, and I'd immediately inform the agent reading my work. The fact is that although an agent is currently considering TRACKS, I'm not yet represented, and thus not tied to an agent. If I already had an agreement with an agent, I wouldn't even consider entering the contest.
I'd still be on the lookout for an agent for the next novel, though.
It's a lot to think about.
I assume that when you ask about posting "real" stories, you mean fiction?
Yes, although many of my brisk posts (most experts agree that web writing should be brisk) are about writing and writers, some of my posts have been works of fiction or links to fiction already published elsewhere.
In fact, earlier today I posted part three of "Freedom," a story in 12 parts. "Freedom" is one of the stories from TRACKS, my novel in stories. Here is the post from today: http://www.gather.com/viewArticle.jsp?articleId=281474976924091
I wouldn't ask you to search my previous posts for fiction, since there are quite a few. But here are a few references, since you asked. Your comments would be welcomed and appreciated.
Freedom Part 1:
http://www.gather.com/viewArticle.jsp?articleId=281474976919127
Freedom Part 2:
http://www.gather.com/viewArticle.jsp?articleId=281474976920427
Freedom Part 3:
http://www.gather.com/viewArticle.jsp?articleId=281474976924091
Tracks Excerpt: The Conductor:
http://www.gather.com/viewArticle.jsp?articleId=281474976915621
Tracks Excerpt in WHWN:
http://www.gather.com/viewArticle.jsp?articleId=281474976901567
Thanks for asking, and I hope you enjoy them!
Eric