The Center for Women Writers at Salem College, in Winston Salem, North Carolina, has announced an international literary contest. They will present awards in fiction, creative nonfiction, and poetry. Thanks to Danielle Moroux for sharing this with us. It’s always great to see opportunities for women writers!
Literary Contests and Opportunities for Women Writers
Literary contests can offer writers a wonderful opportunity to share their work, gain recognition, and connect with a larger writing community. And when an organization like the Center for Women Writers sponsors a competition, it’s also an opportunity to celebrate and encourage women’s literary voices.
For writers of fiction, creative nonfiction, and poetry, contests can provide an incentive to finish a piece that’s been languishing in a drawer or sitting half-polished on a computer. After all, there’s nothing quite like a submission deadline to help move a writing project from “someday” to “done!”
But entering literary contests involves more than simply sending off your favorite piece.
First, take a careful look at the guidelines. Does the contest accept your particular genre? Are there word-count restrictions or eligibility requirements? Is there an entry fee? Knowing what’s expected before you submit can save time, money, and disappointment.
Next, give your work one more thoughtful read. Check for awkward sentences, inconsistencies, and those pesky little errors that somehow survive even the most careful revisions. Better yet, ask a trusted writing friend to take a look.
Women’s community leads to opportunities
Opportunities for women writers come in many forms. There are literary contests, writing residencies, grants, fellowships, workshops, and publication in journals and anthologies. Organizations dedicated to supporting women writers can provide something equally valuable: a community in which women’s stories, experiences, and perspectives are encouraged and celebrated. Whether you’re just beginning your writing journey or have been publishing for years, seeking out these opportunities can help you develop your craft, build confidence, and connect with other writers who share your creative ambitions.
Danielle’s generosity in passing along this contest announcement is a lovely example of writers supporting writers.
Whether you’re entering a literary contest or cheering on someone who is, there’s something wonderful about being part of a community that wants to see its members succeed.
The contest deadline has been extended to January 31st, 2015, so click here and take a look-see! Best of luck!
Opportunities for women writers abound! Entering a literary contest, preparing a story or essay for publication, or working on a book-length manuscript? A writing coach can help you strengthen your work and prepare it for submission. If you’d like some editorial guidance and support, visit my contact page, and let’s connect! You might also be interested in my books: Plotting Your Novel with the Plot Clock and Jamie Helps Mel Write a Novel.