An Open Letter
September 8, 2000
7:47 a.m.
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Dear Writers of the Future participants:  Tomorrow starts the 2000 version of the WotF Workshop, culminating in the awards ceremony and release of the book. Thanks to William Brown, I was thinking about this as I was driving home. I am jealous of you. If nothing else, please know that. And I'm thinking of you and wishing you a great week. You are in for a fantastic time. Here's my advice. Don't do the touristy thing. I know people did when I was there, and I think it was fine for them. But you can always take a vacation in LA later...you'll not get the opportunity to write in an environment like this very often. Go there with an open mind. Do. You may have heard "there is no try." But this is wrong. Many of you will find the idea of writing like this place teaches a bit foreign. I suggest you "do" just try. Go there with an open ear. Listen. Every piece of advice you will hear has an echo of truth in it. Some will echo more resoundingly for you. Take those items home with you when you go, but find a way to understand those parts that don't echo for you--you may be surprised where they will come in useful later. Go there with a focused mind. Write. Each of at least the last three years the workshop has resulted in at least one major magazine sale written on site. 1997 was Brian Plante, who won the AnLab with his story. 98 was me. 99 was Amy Casil. It can be done--just focus, okay? Go there to experiment with the craft. It's a pretty safe place for that, you know? When you get tired, go to the lobby and pay attention to the people there. You'll likely almost always find a writer in the group hanging out. Talk to them. Share your fears and your goals. Realize you aren't alone. Then when you realize you're losing valuable writing time--challenge the other to go up to your rooms and do your best work yet. Please say hi to AJ, and to Tim Powers, and to Joanie, and Natalie, and all the administrators. Say hi to Abby in the hotel--I hope for your sake she's still there as she was really great. But mostly, have fun. And know I'm jealous...   Have a great day.  Your mission: 25,000 words Daily Persistence is © Ron Collins |
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Almost there on this story....missing a few hundred words to draft #2 begins |
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