...BUT we occasionally need to escape from the fantasy worlds we've created on our computer screens. We need to seek out other writers - sometimes the only people who understand the dual reality that we live within, splitting our time between real and make-believe worlds.
One of the best escapes I've found is belonging to and participating in a good writers' organization. In Wisconsin, we're fortunate to have a statewide organization (with numerous local clubs) dedicated to supporting and assisting both amateur and professional writers in their creative writing efforts.
The Wisconsin Writers Assocation was founded in 1948 (as the Wisconsin Regional Writers Association.) It offers excellent educational conferences, contests, book fairs, promotional and networking opportunities.
I just returned from the WWA Fall 2011 Conference in Stevens Point, Wisconsin - recharged, inspired, anxious to apply some of the things I learned there.
This was one of the best writers' conferences I've attended! There was something for everyone - sessions on flash fiction, memoir writing, poetry, science fiction/fantasy/horror, self-publishing, small presses, freelance writing opportunities, journalism in the e-world, and screenplay writing. There were opportunities to "pitch" your manuscript to an editor/agent and time to network with other writers.
We listened to Bruce Dethlefsen, Wisconsin Poet Laureate, read his delightful poetry. And we were entranced with the success story of Cayla Kluver, teen-age author of the best-selling Legacy Trilogy. Cayla's mother and agent, Kimberly Phifer, took us along on their journey to stardom in the young adult world of books.
The book fair offered an excellent selection of books by Wisconsin authors -and we were pleased with our book sales.
Yes, writers write...but we also need to take time to learn and network at writers' conferences like this one. I, for one, came away inspired and raring to go on my next novel!
Stay tuned and please stay in touch.
Janet Kay
http://www.watersofthedancingsky.com
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