All roads may lead to Evans Head but there are lots of different paths to becoming a writer.
This is an old photo of my dear writing friend Helena Pastorand I at one of our first ever writing retreats at Evans Head. The sign doesn’t even exist any more! How young and enthusiastic we were then, only a few years into our writing journey.
Now, more than 14 years later, we’ve both had books published but we’re still not much closer to our dreams of international best selling success. Oh well.
Writing isn’t a career to embark on if you’re being sensible. It’s a calling – much like being a nun or a doctor or a missionary. Â A wise writer once told me, “Writing may not make you rich but it will enrich your life immeasurably.”
Yes, there are days I’m bitter about all the unpublished manuscripts piling up on my computer still looking for the right publisher. But most to the time I’m extremely grateful for all the joys and adventures this writing life has brought me.
It’s been a wild ride that’s for sure. With the highs of finally launching Thrill Seekers, a very long four years after signing a contract with my UK publishers, Ransom, and then the miraculous short listing for the NSW Premier’s Award. I had to pinch myself.
But then came all the years with equally valuable manuscripts being unable to find a good home. Not for want of trying. The rejections that still come even after almost two decades of writing and honing my craft.
Still, those years have been invaluable – I’ve learnt so much about writing and the business of publishing that I would never have known had my path been smoother.
Who knows where I would have ended up?
I may never have edited Bjelke Blues and met all the wonderful contributors, or developed my special workshops and retreats.
Recently on CHOP CHAT COOK I spoke with my friend Joanne Tindale about all the ups and downs of my writing life and how you too can build your career as a writer.
Check out the video and let me know what you think.
How is your writing career going?
Are you building a writing CV and still making ends meet?
This enforced period of isolation is a wonderful time to get stuck into your writing projects. So dust them off and write like a fury! Then SUBMIT!
Lots of love,
Edwina xx
Edwina Shaw 