Sharing the podium

If you could see my piled-high desk, my schedule, my correspondences, the looming deadlines, the family birthday schedule, our disheveled bed...and I always make my bed.

I apologize for not posting about the Columbia, MO Writer's Conference, The Write Direction. The week completely got away from me.

Linda Fisher is the editor of Well Versed, Columbia Writer's Guild anthology currently seeking submissions. Her smile lights up a room, sorry for the cliche` but it's true. Although she is an internet buddy, hugging her was like hugging an old friend. Thanks to Linda and Larry Allen, President of CWG.

Dianna Graveman and I co-presented on the topic of personal essays for anthologies. Dianna has the expertise; she knows the ins and outs, complexities, legalities. I am amazed at her stamina; she is a goal-oriented powerhouse of knowledge. She has her own business, 2riverscommunications.com. Additionally she is a partner in Tree House Publishing Group.

Our presentations complement one another. She says I rouse the crowd and she brings them down with the business realities. But that is not the case at all. As proof, after our presentation attendees called us names: inspirational, motivational, helpful.

Lunch was delicious. We were unable to attend all of the wonderful workshops, but we did attend Larry Wood's presentation. He talked about publishing short, historical nonfiction. I've never considered  researching locals and pitching a story to a regional editor.

You'd better be able to write-tight in order to complete an essay in 500-1,000 words. But if you can do it, you can often sell it. Think of a colorful character from your area, and narrow your focus to one crises or event, then after doing your research, do a write up, revise, and find a market. Your pitch should be concise, so the editor gets a feel of time, place, who, what, why and where.

I encourage you to head in the "Write Direction."