Writers Conferences

Photo courtesy of Spencer Watson @thebrownspy

Attending conferences is not new, for me. It was always part of my job requirements: to share the results of my research or teaching methods; to network; to become more informed. And, of course, to have fun.  And they were fun.  Those conferences took me to every province in Canada, and to international venues such as Australia and Penang. I learned so much. I laughed so much. I don’t go anymore because I have retired from academia and returned to my early love, writing. 

I have attended writing conference and I do recommend Surrey International Writers Conference. It was organized with the typical format I recognize: keynote sessions and workshops presented by well-established authors, agents and editors. The standard was good.  

What made this conference different was the ability to access ‘blue pencil’ and ‘pitch’ sessions. In essence, one to one sessions with a specific focus on my story. For ‘blue pencils’ I had to submit three pages of writing for critique. As I sat there, a well-known author read my work, sometimes made comments on the text and told me what they thought. The authors asked questions, commented on writing style, gave general feedback, and explained exactly what was worth continuing to do. The critical reviews are so helpful as I revise my work. 

I was wary of doing a ‘pitch’ to an agent. These agents represent the cream of good writers. I appreciate they are looking for new authors, but I wondered if my story line was good enough. The agent I pitched to was so helpful.  Instead of having to do a long preamble about my work she fired questions, expected focused answers, and decided whether she liked my idea and would like to see my story. She said she would! This was so unexpected and I wanted to hug her. I resisted.

However, it is not only the programmed sessions that were exciting. Every time I sat in a room, for a workshop or lunch my neighbor would talk to me. People were interested in each other’s work; supportive and eager to share tips. On my last day I traveled on Vancouver’s Sky Train with fellow writer, Jodi Wainright. It was she who gave me a great tip. Interview your characters, she said. Interview them?  They’re not real you know! To get the depth of your characters, she said, ask them what they’re feeling, what they want to say, what they cannot say, listen and write it down. Thanks Jodi.

I am also a member of Jericho Writers. I have not used their online services very much but what I have used was extremely helpful. They cover every subject imaginable and are quick to respond to questions. If you’re not in a position to join they have tons of free stuff and if you leave your email, Harry Bingham will send you a weekly update with useful information and tips.