You might remember this contest from last year, AWers. It’s that time again!
I think the world of Ms. Hemingway, and I’m enthusiastic about this contest for developing new writers. I asked Lorian to write something about the contest and her involvement that I could share with all of you. She replied:
The pure joy that comes from reading the stories submitted to the Lorian Hemingway Short Story Competition has not abated one iota in over three decades. Our competition throws out the rule book, the “shoulds” and should nots”, when it comes to writing. We look for fresh voices, that original voice that comes to all writers in time. Often people say that our competition is “out of their league”, or that they would not stand a chance. Not so. This is why we implemented the qualification that all who submit cannot have been published in print medium with a circulation of greater than 5,000. We were beginning to receive stories from well-established writers, and we wanted a level playing field for those who have yet to be well-established.
Our competition is about writers who work alone with great commitment, with hope ever alive in their hearts, and with a dedication to their own original voice. This is when the magic of writing happens, this is when craft becomes art. This is when the stories that fill my nights with unparalleled reading pleasure are born. It is you, the writer, who shows me all aspects of the human condition, and so often in its most raw and heartbreaking form. And I thank you.
— Lorian Hemingway
This is a terrific contest with a long and reputable history, well worth considering.
Note that, this year, they’ll be accepting online submissions.
Right on. Let’s do this!
I’m concerned that this contest is for literary writers only. I know the guidelines state that it’s open to all genres; but all the winning stories and Honorable Mention I’ve read are literary writing; and pretentious.
mer:
Well then, you’ve got your answer, haven’t you? Your style of writing won’t win and you know it. There’s no use complaining.
Different contests have different things they’re looking for. I’m a genre writer but I wouldn’t dream of putting ‘true’ genre fiction into this, unless it was literaried to within in inch of its life.
Of all the writing contests I’ve looked at, Lorian’s made me the most comfortable. Her enthusiasm for the craft is so encouraging. Example: I got a confirmation (with a thankyou!) with my submission. I entered another contest (costing $35) and emailed them to ask if they received my document, and they couldn’t bother to reply.
I would recommend this contest to anyone.