Astonishingly, this is the first anniversary of this blog. So, happy birthday, blog.
It’s also the first anniversary of me taking seriously the idea of getting published and, therefore, probably a good time to take stock.
In the past year:
- I have had five short stories published.
- Another short story won a competition and yet another was short-listed in another competition.
- I have written fourteen short stories and revised maybe a dozen others.
- I have finished writing two novels and started writing three.
- I have learned how to write a query letter – and have had lots of practice using what I’ve learnt!
- I have earned some money from writing fiction for the first time ever.
- I’ve had my first review – which damned me with faint praise.
- I’ve been to my first writers’ convention.
- I’ve joined a writing group and even managed to get to one meeting – almost.
- I’ve met several very interesting and pleasant writers and editors online and off.
- I have over 500 unique visitors a month reading my blog (thanks, everyone).
It doesn’t sound too bad, really. But it doesn’t feel all that good. Until I get a book contract, I don’t think I’m going to feel I’ve achieved much.
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Well, for what it’s worth, I’m deeply impressed by these. Even the ones that may not seem too good right now, it’s all grist for the mill as they say. Earning money from fiction – that’s huge! Here, have a virtual slap on the back from me!
Thanks Emma. Much appreciated – and it compensates for the two virtual slaps in the face I got from magazine editors this morning.
To be honest, until I counted them for this list, I hadn’t realised I’d written fourteen shorts last year. It surprised me because I think of myself as writing novels these days. How did as many as 14 slip in between the chapters when I wasn’t looking?
hey, congrats on those achievements graham! that’s awesome – some really strong credits to put in your letter to publishers, particularly the 5 short stories you’ve had published. shows you mean business.
Thanks, J-A. Let’s hope the publishers think so too
I’m very impressed as well. That’s a solid foundation, especially when you count the invisible things you learn with it. This is also an archive of material, which can be very useful once you do get published. This stuff could sustain you for years!