1 Topic by j p lundstrom (edited by j p lundstrom 2019-09-20 18:15:04)

Topic: The Disappointed Writer

A year ago or so, I posted an enthusiastic endorsement of a new service to writers called Submittable Discover. It was supposed to offer requests for submissions from publications looking for new, as well as established, writers.  Since Submittable was the avenue through which I had successfully submitted several stories, I had high hopes. I even had a friendly conversation with their help department.

Sad to say, it was not to be. Today, as I scan through Discovery, I see a confusing jumble of help wanted ads, announcements of public events requesting volunteers, requests for grant proposals, requests for participants in art shows, contests, and videography events. There are pitifully few actual requests for submissions of written work. Many of those are for obscure contests. Nearly all requests for submissions require a submission fee.

Don't bother. As far as I can tell, a beginning writer doesn't have money to send off in the hope of having his/her work published. I know, I know--publications and contests need to finance themselves somehow. That's what advertisers are for. Be that as it may, the Discovery format is unnavigable and ultimately, unrewarding. A writer might better spend some time in other pursuits.

Any suggestions?

Quote Post 1

Re: The Disappointed Writer

Are you on the distribution list for Writer's Digest? I found it through a link Temple posted here. I submitted a short story there, although there was a $35 entry fee. I figured since it was my only short story and had been edited (almost) to death that I would give it a try. Can't remember when the contest ends, but I think we're getting close. No word yet.

Quote Post 2

Re: The Disappointed Writer

I would say that most any contest which charges a fee is in it for the up front money. Your odds of substantial benefit are probably better with the lottery. But, having said that, if you would like to enter my contest, the entry fee is a paltry hundred bucks, no refunds, or promises. You may enter as many times as you wish or can afford. Any genre, length, or format is acceptable. I will be sole judge and my opinion is final. My personal entry should not be looked upon as getting preferential treatment and should I win, it is purely the writers talent Just send your payment to the site and I will give Sol a handlers fee should he accept the service. Good luck to all who enter. Take care. Vern

Quote Post 3

Re: The Disappointed Writer

https://publishedtodeath.blogspot.com/2 … ction.html

https://artplusmarketing.com/15-magazin … c738f850a6

Just a few I found doing a google search.  I'm sure there are hundreds of others that pay you and not the other way around.  Unless, of course, you choose Vern's contest.

Quote Post 4

Re: The Disappointed Writer

You might want to take a look at SOOP, "Something or Other Publishing". Now don't take this as exactly write, but I believe they are in it to help the writers. You submit a proposal, then find, say 100, people to vote for you and that gets you in the door. They are trying to help writers get a start without ripping them off for money, and make sure that the writers who get published get their royalties, etc. Now, I may have gotten some of this wrong but I was pleasantly surprised when I checked out the site. Give it a look and see what you think. So far they seem different. A friend of mine is using to get a story into an anthology. Me, I'm still in lazy state, writing but not ready to put myself out and ask for votes

Quote Post 5