A couple of years ago, I heard Richard Newman of River Styx read his poetry at a Writer's Guild meeting,and I thought, If that is poetry, then I can do it! And I did. I compressed lengthy prose and wrote some award-winning poetry. I'd always had a knack for writing rhyming, humorous poems, but the word poetry made me think of all those mind-boggling lines with layered meaning that gave me a brain ache. Although I enjoy St. Louis Writer's Guild Open Mike Nights,I never thought I'd attend a poetry reading. I attended one last night at Puddin' Head Books in Webster Groves headed up by Amanda Wells, Publisher of Literal Chaos, a local literary magazine. I even read my work after the featured readers. Bill and I had a great time and especially enjoyed Evan Copacetic Soul, an outstanding slam poet. I shall never nibble a Thin Mint Girl Scout cookie again without thinking of his hysterically funny routine. His other pieces were heart wrenching, and gut busting. A most enjoyable night.
Stepping out of a comfort zone is not easy; trying new literary things is challenging, but in order to grow, a writer must reach in all directions. Stretch yourself.
I am co creator of this PG-13 rated anthology to be released March 2014. Submissions are open. CLICK ON IMAGE for details on how to submit your true, sassy, wacky family story. Tell on your sibling, write about a humorous or crazy incident, you know, the stories you reminisce about at your family gatherings. Not looking for sweet and sappy stories, but fun, true stories 1,000-2,000 words. Previously submitted stories are still under consideration. Be patient, it takes time to develop a book. There are many titles in development. Check out the list and submit to some of the other books.
1 comment:
I wanted to attend that, but my professor was reading at Left Bank Books the same evening. There are never enough nights!
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