Recently, I’ve been contemplating the idea of starting work on the novel that’s been brewing in my mind for the past couple of years. While my initial goal was always to become a novelist, the common advice has been to break into the industry through short stories first and then transition to novels once some published work is under my belt. However, a conversation with my HWA mentor, JG Faherty, shed light on an alternative approach – working on multiple projects simultaneously.
I realized that my reading habits mirrored this concept. I usually have 5 to 7 books going at the same time, gravitating towards the one that holds my interest or matches my current mood. This multi-project approach, akin to flipping through TV channels, seems like an appealing way to approach writing as well. By doing this, I can work on my novel and focus on it when the creative calls align, while still nurturing my passion for short stories.
Thinking about my writing journey, I’ve come to the realization that the current magazines in the horror genre might not be the best fit for my style and tone. While anthologies would appreciate my brand of horror, the magazines’ stories veer in directions that don’t resonate with me. For example, Ghoulish Magazine and Apex, while excellent publications, don’t align with my dark, linear style. This doesn’t mean they are unworthy – they simply don’t represent what I want to write.
I have a story currently submitted to Qualia Nous 2, however, the odds may seem daunting, considering the editor, Michael Bailey, received a staggering 2,938 submissions during the open call. Yet, I remain hopeful that my dark science fiction tale will find its rightful place. The story carries an emotional gut punch, delving into far-reaching ethical implications.
I also have stories out on submission at Flame Tree Publications Folk Horror anthology call, Cosmic Horror Monthly, and Vasterian. My short story Bone & Teeth & Beard is ready to submit, but I am saving it for the Pseudopod call that opens later this month. That may be my favorite short story I’ve written to date and would love to hear it performed.
Now, returning to my novel, I’ve been nurturing this idea for a couple of years, and I finally feel ready to begin writing it. While I have written four other novels in the past, none have reached the final draft stage. The last one came close, but after critiques revealed the need for extensive rewrites, I wasn’t ready to commit years more to that project. I intend to revisit it later, but for now, I crave a fresh focus. The thought of starting a novel has always caused me hesitation due to the time commitment, but JG’s advice reassured me that I can balance novel writing alongside short stories.
On the educational front, though I’m not currently enrolled in any classes (taking a class by Jonathan Maberry on the 12th), I believe in continuous learning. I am currently engrossed in “The Art of Styling Sentences” by Ann Longknife and K.D. Sullivan. This book dissects twenty different sentence structures, teaching both construction and optimal usage. My aspiration is that mastering these forms will make my writing more captivating. It certainly can’t hurt!
Beyond my writing endeavors, I’ve discovered Blue Sky, a new Twitter alternative that has provided me with a fresh platform to connect with readers and writers. The interactions have been enjoyable, and my follower count has already surpassed my presence on Twitter. You can find me on Blue Sky at CJWritesHorror.bsky.social.
Cheers,
C.J.
