Rejection

Getting into any kind of creative venture, one must expect rejection. I know this, but it is still a tough lesson to accept. When you create something, and put a lot of time and care into it, it is a part of you. Then to put it out for people to see and evaluate is very tough and scary. I built up a fairly tough skin during my years at art school, having to out up your work in front of twenty or more people and listen to them critique it. Those were trying times and I still have the battle scars for proof.

Now I have made a change from making paintings to writing. I have had an extensive amount of art training, but very little with creative writing. Reading and writing are things I have had a passion in for years, but I never thought of doing it regularly. I have always had ideas for writing projects, but never had the follow through. I decided to take this venture very seriously and put myself to task for daily goals and accomplishing what I start. In the year and half to two years that I have been writing regularly I have written a number of short stories, completed a manuscript for a novel, and am working on a second. Since losing my job, I felt a pressure, but also an opportunity to focus more on my writing, and to get some of my work published. So, with that said not too long ago I sent one of my short stories out to a magazine.

When I started writing I did a lot of reading on the experience of other writers starting out. The majority of the experiences are very similar in the way that most have gone through quite a bit of rejection before getting published. I expected this when I sent out my work. Still, when I sent it out, I hoped for the best. I felt it was one of the best pieces that I had written, and maybe had a good chance of getting accepted. When I got the reply envelope back a few weeks later, I was nervous opening it up. When I did, I saw the rejection letter. I was half expecting it, but still I was disappointed. I badly wanted some of my writing to be in print, and it wasn’t going to happen this time. I’m including the note that was sent back so people can check out what my rejection looked like.



Even though I was rejected and felt the sting of disappointment, I am more determined than ever to keep on writing, and to keep trying to break into the printed world. I will continue to devote myself to constant writing and reading to improve my abilities, and I will continue to share my experience here.

an intro to my current work

In my previous entry I wrote that since I was laid-off, I was working on my writing. I am writing this, to introduce people to my work, and my current project.

For just over two months now I have been working on a manuscript for a novel. This is my second attempt at such an endeavor. My first one I completed almost a year ago, and can be read at www.webook.com/aberrant. I have to include a disclaimer here; this is my first attempt at such a project so read at your own risk. I thought it was okay, but the writing was rather rough and the inexperience seemed to shine through, things could have been handled better. I believe that the story was strong, but I just needed a bit more writing experience to do it justice.

In between the novel manuscripts I have been working on numerous short stories to hone my craft and to keep writing. Writing them has been a great experience for me. They are quick glimpses of another world and don’t demand too much of my time.

The novel manuscript is a different beast. There is just so much more to keep in mind and try to sustain for the life of the writing. The tentative title for my latest project is “The Sigil”. I estimate that I have about 30,000 words written so far, give or take a few thousand. I am almost finished with the seventh chapter, so I am well on my way. It’s been a challenge keeping on task all the time. I do enjoy the writing, but like most people I’m easily distracted. I just try to keep the focus as best as I can, and just keep hammering out some writing.

While I am trying to get this manuscript off the ground, I am also trying to get some of my short stories published. I figure I might get taken a little more seriously if I can get something into print. I’ll keep updating on my progress with both the manuscript and the short stories. Hopefully soon, maybe I can earn a little extra income for my efforts. Wish me luck and keep checking for more updates.

The Journey Begins

I have been laid-off for just over two months now. While I am waiting to either get called back, or to have to find another job I am dedicating my time to starting a writing career. I don't have much writing experience, my BFA degree is in painting, but I love to read and have a penchant for telling stories. I decided to chronicle my journey of either success or failure, (but most likely success), in this blog. I will attempt to give the reader a view of my progress in writing, I will keep people updated on where I submit my stories to, and whether or not they are accepted. I am looking to make my dream come true. Since the creation of a writer is not just their work, but also their influences, I will pepper the blogs by writing about the books I am reading, and movies that I am seeing, or just whatever the hell it is a person does who is laid-off from his job. Check back regularly, and help support a struggling writer on his road to publication. Please feel free to comment on any blogs, send advice, or share your own thoughts and experiences. Thanks for reading.