Hello,

I‘ve just uploaded a piece of non-fiction to the archive. All feedback welcome:

Sunday Morning Street Scenes

This morning I was enjoying the thread, Tortoise or Hare, especially the reference to the WB courses. The reason for this piece of non-fiction is that I have recently enrolled on the main course the WB offer; the one with the non-fiction and fiction parts. Following their advice I am doing the non-fiction part first as, apparently, you have a greater chance of being published in this area.

I am currently grappling with the first proper non-fiction assignment. The piece I have uploaded is not intended for that assignment, but just an attempt to try to get into the swing of non-fiction writing. Finding it a bit tough at the moment. It’s not fair, apparently you’re not allowed to just make stuff up as you go along.

WB strongly advises that you research the market first and write with a specific publication in mind. Sounds like good advice to me, but I feel a bit like a fish out of water. If anyone knows of any non-fiction publications that are a) a good read, and b) open to submissions, I would be really very grateful for the name.


Thanks!

Hi Sam,
I am not sure if this helps, but...

One has to know or have researched the subject matter that you intend to write about. I have written quite a few such Articles for trade/business publications but you must ask yourself if your contribution will be of interest and/or value to the Readers. If so then your task is to persuade the editor - this becomes much easier as your work is recognised.

If you widen your target market to embrace 'general interest publications' you will naturally include local, regional and National newspapers. You are then in the world of the Journalist.

However while there may be very many publications that are 'open' to you the vast majority will have a recognisable slant, theme or character that must influence your submissions.

In some respects non-fictional writing is far more difficult than fictional work; I am sure your course will help you a great deal.

I'll have a look at your piece.

Len

Hi Len,

Thanks for your advice. I think you made some very useful points. I'm picking up that you perhaps have to be much more analytical when it comes to non-fiction writing. It sounds as if you have to know exactly who you are writing for.

Interesting thoughts, thanks for that.

Sam