Hi everyone, my name is Rachel and I thought I'd come over and introduce myself. May I begin by saying what a fantastic forum, wish I'd found it much earlier as I wouldn't have collected so many other writing sites in my "writing how to" folder in my favorites. I used to be a prolific writer throughout my high school days, scored myself many a good mark, which was always inspiring. I entered a couple of writing competitions over the years and have yet to be published. I'm 29 and have three beautiful kids, and have now started getting back into the flow of things. I like a challenge when writing, and would prefer a prompt or starter to get the imagination going. My dream, as is many peoples is to write a novel about my mum and our family as i find it would be great reading. I always have people asking when I am going to write it everytime a new dilemma arises withinthe family. They're an interesting and confusing bunch. I would love to write it in the style of Wild Swans or a Wally Lamb sort of thing. But my problem is where to begin, and of course legal issues, and actually sitting down beginning the thing! So that brings me here, polishing up my reading and writing skills, entering competitions and enjoying myself. Sorry this is so long, and hello to you all. Rachel
Welcome to the Writing forums. I'msure you'll be able to manifest your thoughts in the form of a novel. Here's a basic welcome from all of us. It should be obvious, but in case it isn't, let me explain. The Writing Problems Area is exclusively where opinions on different ways to write, blockages in writing styles and similar problems can be discussed. In the Review Rom, you can get critical appreciation and/or analysis of your written material. Behold, you must first review two pieces of writing before posting your own. This is ensure the pieces are evaluated to the most. Other than this, we have Writing Cotnests, weekly and monthly, where you can submit your writing. We also have Word games, Book Discussion and so on, classified under Community interaction. It may interest you if you're just hanging around. adamant has been kind enough to put many of the things I have mentioned or missed out on in one comprehensive place. If you want to check it out, see the Newbie Packets: Noobie Packets! - Writing Forums Enjoy it here, and don't feel shy to ask for help. We are all here to teach and learn in a mutual environment. And we hope you can do the same. Regards and Best Wishes!
Hello Rachel, Welcome to the Writing Forums. If you haven't explored the site yet, you should probably do so soon. Newcomers often gravitate to the Lounge, the Word Games, or the Review Room, but there is much more to be discovered if you poke in the corners. As for the Review Room, new joiners often wonder why we do things a bit differently on this site than on other writing sites. We emphasize reviewing as a critical writing skill. Training your eye by reviewing other people's work helps you improve your own writing even before you present it for others to see. Therefore, we ask members to review other people's writing before posting work of their own. The Review Room on this site, therefore, is a true workshop, not just a bulletin board for displaying your work. See this post, Why Write Reviews Before Posting My Work? for more information. Enjoy your stay here, and have fun!
Hi Rachael, nice you could join us. We have a strong Aussie contingent on the site whom I'm sure like the rest of us will warmly welcome you. I hope this site can provide the impetus for you to resume your writing - if you have any qestions let please let us know. If you would like to enter our short story contest please follow this link for more details. Short Story Contest (12) - Theme: Halloween - Writing Forums
Hi there Hopefully we can help with getting you back into the flow of writing, and polishing up any rough edges. If you need anything reviewed, especially stories, feel free to pm me. Cheers
Hello and welcome to the forum I hope you have a great time here with all of us and I look forward to seeing your work around the boards. Torana