The act of writing fiction is a complex and deeply personal endeavour. For many authors, the importance of process in fiction writing cannot be overstated. It is through the writing process that ideas transform into stories, and intentions evolve into art. In the words of Anais Nin, “We write to taste life twice, in the moment and in retrospect.”
2023 Writers’ Studio Short Story Competition Winning Entries
Congratulations to our Prize Winners and to all those who entered.
We were thrilled with both the quality and number of entries we received.
Our Judge, Zahid Gamieldien has awarded the top 3 entries as per below.
Congratulations, William, Brid & Alexander.
Short Story and Other Writing Competitions 2024
Listed below are upcoming competitions that you might like to enter. They are listed by submission closing date, not when the competition is open.
Please read all instructions and entry requirements.
The Power That Process Generates In Writing Fiction
The Power of Emotion in Fiction
Emotion is the lifeblood of fiction, the beating heart that gives narratives their vitality and resonance. It is the driving force that captivates readers, creates empathetic connections, and leaves a lasting impact.
As the celebrated novelist Joseph Conrad once wrote, “To make you see, to make you hear, to make you feel. That is all, and that is everything.”
Writers’ Studio Short Story Competition 2023
Our Annual Short Story Competition for 2023 is now open for entries!
Please read all instructions before submitting an Entry.
– Entries must be between 1500 words and a maximum of 2500 words.
– Short Story Theme: Open
Deadline: 5pm on Tuesday, 31 October 2023
How to write the first draft of a novel or screenplay
Writing a successful novel or screenplay that resonates with readers doesn’t happen by accident.
As John Tullius, author and founder of the Maui Writers’ Conference, said, “I don’t care how talented you are. It’s not about contacting your muse. Success comes from taking the time to learn the craft.”
There are many different elements that go into the process of completing a story. Broadly speaking, they are planning, writing, rewriting and editing.
The Importance of Genre – Introduction
Every writer needs to find their unique voice and what it is about their story that makes it stand out.
Your story will have its best chance of finding its audience if you are aware of what genre your story fits into and what your readers’ expectations are. Bearing in mind, the fiction world is divided into roughly two segments: literary fiction and commercial/genre fiction.
How to become more creative
Writing a novel or a screenplay is an art and a craft that takes time to master. We believe it is important that you follow a process that enables you to turn off your internal editor, setting up a dance between structure and imagination.
And above all enjoy the process of writing and experience the pleasure and satisfaction of telling your story in a way that other people will want to read what you have written.