Are you writing for publication?

Chris Writer

I am supposed to raiding your port. But, I have found some really nice forums here and keep following threads instead. However, I think I may have just discovered a favorite.

I write because I have to. I stopped writing for years but my head wouldn't stop turning everything into a story or trying to put a description to every sight. I mean everything. I have finally sat down and starting writing again. I carry a journal to capture those thoughts that elude me when I finally dig the pen out of the bottom of my bag. It is a slow process to do what used to come so naturally but now gets stuck in my head before they can be put to paper -- but -- you see the words keep dancing in my head -- they won't leave me be. I've tried drowning them out with the cries and laughter of babies -- I've tried crowding them out between work and returning to school -- there is no possibility of ignoring them -- they keep coming at me like a freight train. They have a tough time getting organized and often end up in that can beside my desk. But, they keep coming and when they do get organized there is no stopping them. I can’t eat or sleep until they are on paper. Then I barely can get them down fast enough. They usually stay exactly where I put them too.

I have several pieces requiring a rewrite but I can’t get the words to cooperate. I’ve thrown out more stories than I’ll ever submit – speaking of submission – I so far have only received rejections – for some of my favorite pieces too --- I would quit – if only I could – sometimes it seems that perhaps I have – then it hits – that drive – it’s like a drug – please don’t’ get between me and a keyboard – I’ll write it if I have to – on the back of an envelope or on a torn paper bag – In my pile of scattered thoughts there are even napkins, index cards, store receipts, all with pieces of stories or thoughts waiting to journey through my keyboard to a document hidden inside my cpu and peaking through my monitor – I want to quit but, I can’t –

I need recognition soon – I keep swearing if I don’t get something soon I’ll quit – well we all know that aint’ happening. I think I’m sellable I just need to find the right audience. Hmm – I hate rejection but I keep asking for more. It isn’t always healthy this affair we have with our words. The way it can take over your entire life. I spend time every week searching for and preparing my work for submission. I’ve changed direction and that didn’t’ work now I’m changing direction again when …
,,,oh I’ve gotten carried away again. I only wanted to introduce myself, and answer your questions
I wish I wrote for publication. I used to write for my school and community papers (for which I had gotten paid) when I was in high school (over twenty years ago). I won several local writing competitions. I know I have the talent it’s just still buried deep down somewhere.
So far I only post here. I’m trying to learn about selling my work – it’s a matter of finding the right audience – and I probably need to edit, edit, edit, and edit some more.
I want to sell my work. I want my name to start becoming recognized. Not necessarily a household name but at least among authors and publishers.