Comments on: Cultivating Creativity with Writing Contests in 2023

By: 🖋 Writing Links Round Up 3/27 – B. Shaun Smith

🖋 Writing Links Round Up 3/27 – B. Shaun Smith — Mon, 27 Mar 2023 19:18:56 +0000

[…] Cultivating Creativity with Writing Contests in 2023 […]

By: deleyna

deleyna — Thu, 26 Jan 2023 02:21:18 +0000

I had a bad experience with a contest that left me soured on them in general, but I've been having a lot of fun entering all of the World Anvil contests lately. With this post from you and learning from Hannah recently, I'm starting to think about maybe getting back into contests! Thanks for this, Kris!

By: Jenny Hansen

Jenny Hansen — Tue, 24 Jan 2023 04:35:58 +0000

Contests are usually how I find out how well my book is doing what I set out to do. Did I get the story across? Is it believable? Are the places that yank the judge out of the story?

Those are all super powerful things for the author to know.

By: Jenny Hansen

Jenny Hansen — Tue, 24 Jan 2023 04:34:31 +0000

In reply to Denise. Yay!! I have always found tons of value in the feedback from contest judges. Since most of them are not paid, I am always so honored with their labor.

By: Denise

Denise — Tue, 24 Jan 2023 03:59:32 +0000

In reply to Denise. PS. The first book won several "Best of" awards, too.

By: Denise

Denise — Tue, 24 Jan 2023 03:58:29 +0000

I was published as contest runner-up the first time I entered a writing contest. This past October I was published for the fifth time. Once again, my entry was a runner-up in a writing contest and published as a result. I've entered other contests where I didn't place, but I've always found value in the feedback, if given. I also have participated as a judge in a writing contest. If you find one that's a good fit, and it's not too expensive, it's definitely worth it!

By: Hannah Jacobson

Hannah Jacobson — Mon, 23 Jan 2023 23:59:02 +0000

In reply to Alicia Butcher Ehrhardt. Alicia, congratulations on your award-winning news! How wonderful. I enjoyed reading your perceptive thoughts about competitions versus awards. In an industry filled with nuance, you've deciphered things with impeccable precision. Well done, and congratulations again.

By: Hannah Jacobson

Hannah Jacobson — Mon, 23 Jan 2023 23:55:27 +0000

Kris, what an excellent resource for writers! I love how you covered some of the nuanced differences (and similarities) between writing contests and book awards. Requirements can sometimes be tricky, and reward can appear in different ways.

These programs can be used to gain recognition for your work, keep your skills sharp, and hone your creative skills.

Beautifully written. Thank you for sharing.

By: Kris

Kris — Mon, 23 Jan 2023 22:09:24 +0000

In reply to Ellen Buikema. I have to slow down to refill often and it is almost always leads to me writing better quality work. Thanks, Ellen.

By: Kris

Kris — Mon, 23 Jan 2023 22:07:48 +0000

In reply to Alicia Butcher Ehrhardt.

Alicia, you make so many good points, but I mostly LOVE your brag -
Pride's Children: PURGATORY, was named 2021 Best Contemporary novel by Indies Today.

It is emotionally satisfying and validating, as you stated. And sometimea that is just what a writer needs. 🙂

Contests can, yes, be expensive, but valuable if chosen wisely. And many are free.

I agree with you that it isn't always the best use of writerly time if it takes away from your core writing. This year I stepped away from a couple of my favorite challenges in order to focus on my WIP and websites.

I appreciate your thoughtful answers and attention to our work here at WITS.

Happy Writing!
Kris