The Value of Conventions
Apr. 22nd, 2010 10:45 am![[personal profile]](https://www.dreamwidth.org/img/silk/identity/user.png){kind=small}
michaeldthomasI’ve decided to start writing some posts about the craft and business of writing from my POV as an aspiring writer. I’m not sure if anybody will find this interesting or useful, but it sure beats the hell out of writing about the latest rejections. These are my thoughts; your mileage may vary.
I can’t go to Clarion. It simply isn’t possible. Between the cost and the time needed, there isn’t a scenario I can imagine that would make it conceivable in my world. What I can do, though, is take advantage of local SF/F Conventions. Most of the general SF lit cons are under $50 for a weekend. They’re also plentiful. There are at least 15 each year within a 7-hour drive from my home.
So, what do they offer an aspiring writer?
1- Workshops: Not every con does this, but most of the old established ones have a writers’ workshop of some sort. They’re usually set up a single, intense morning of critiquing with other writers. When I did the workshop at WindyCon, it involved two other aspiring writers and seven pros. It was intense, but I learned a lot about my own work, writing, and the critique process in general.
2- Panels: A good convention will have the attending professionals (authors, editors, publishers, and agents) on numerous panels about the craft and business of writing. They often say smart things, and you get a chance to ask questions. This is a nice, structured way to learn stuff. Take notes and don’t be afraid to ask tough questions.
3- Friendships: You can really find a support system at conventions. I’ve made dozens of friends who share my interests in SF and writing. Also, who doesn’t enjoy hanging out and BSing at bars and restaurants with your peeps?
Next post: What Not to Do at Conventions.
I can’t go to Clarion. It simply isn’t possible. Between the cost and the time needed, there isn’t a scenario I can imagine that would make it conceivable in my world. What I can do, though, is take advantage of local SF/F Conventions. Most of the general SF lit cons are under $50 for a weekend. They’re also plentiful. There are at least 15 each year within a 7-hour drive from my home.
So, what do they offer an aspiring writer?
1- Workshops: Not every con does this, but most of the old established ones have a writers’ workshop of some sort. They’re usually set up a single, intense morning of critiquing with other writers. When I did the workshop at WindyCon, it involved two other aspiring writers and seven pros. It was intense, but I learned a lot about my own work, writing, and the critique process in general.
2- Panels: A good convention will have the attending professionals (authors, editors, publishers, and agents) on numerous panels about the craft and business of writing. They often say smart things, and you get a chance to ask questions. This is a nice, structured way to learn stuff. Take notes and don’t be afraid to ask tough questions.
3- Friendships: You can really find a support system at conventions. I’ve made dozens of friends who share my interests in SF and writing. Also, who doesn’t enjoy hanging out and BSing at bars and restaurants with your peeps?
Next post: What Not to Do at Conventions.
