I have recently been asked to read for a short story contest. I have never done so before and have been apalled by how many entries are subpar, amateur and often very trite. On the other hand I have been pleasantly surprised by the variety of stories and find it interesting to see what other writers decide to send to contests. So far I have found it to be a rewarding experience.
I am also trying to figure out if maybe I made a mistake in taking this offer. The editor who wants me to read warned that because of the volume of stories and the attention needed that my own work as a writer would suffer until I am done reading, which so far has been the case. Though, I do not wholly find this to be a problem because of the research aspect. It is fun to see the different styles and approaches people take to the same contest and in the long run I think it can help me shape the way I approach a contest.
Has anyone ever read for a contest before? What were your experiences, good, bad and ugly?
-W
I am also trying to figure out if maybe I made a mistake in taking this offer. The editor who wants me to read warned that because of the volume of stories and the attention needed that my own work as a writer would suffer until I am done reading, which so far has been the case. Though, I do not wholly find this to be a problem because of the research aspect. It is fun to see the different styles and approaches people take to the same contest and in the long run I think it can help me shape the way I approach a contest.
Has anyone ever read for a contest before? What were your experiences, good, bad and ugly?
-W