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Susanne Gervay on writing - one person's view. An authors life is not an easy one, writing for publication is a painful process. Author/publisher relationships can often be the cause of much angst especially when the publisher decides on what needs to be undone and rewritten. This and the politics of publishing was part of Suzanne's message to us. How a new and hopeful writer can cope and improve the chances of being accepted for publication was the other part. Looking after yourself in this challenging and often frustrating business means, for the new author, that you must not be afraid to phone the publisher, speak to the editorial staff and ask if they are interested in what you have. It helps if you have already been published. A good place to start is with School Magazines in NSW and Victoria. Information for new authors is available from www.geko.net.au/~schmag/ Contributor.html The aim is to have a credible history of published work.It helps! When presenting a synopsis of a story see it as a sales pitch! You are selling your story and the synopsis is what can draw the reader (editor) into the story. It must be succinct and gripping, a presentation that will make them sit up and take notice! Send in the whole manuscript? Not necessarily. Send in just three or four chapters, professionaly presented, no frills, double spaced on white A4 paper in an ordinary envelope. A small and easily managed and easily read portion of your work may well be taken up and not put on the slush pile. Having your writing accepted by the publisher may simply be the beginning of phase 2 of your literary career. The publisher may well take advantage of your natural abilities as an actor, speaker, entertainer and communicator to publicise your book. It must sell and you are the one to help it on its path to fame! Back... |