What kind of writer are you?

Before each of you embarks on an exciting adventure to achieve your writing goals, this is an essential question that you first need to ask yourself. By establishing what kind of writer you want to become, you pinpoint and specify your writing goals, making your goals and ambitions that much more within reach.

The answers to the universal question above are endless. A journalist. An author. A biographer. A poet. A song writer. Take your pick – the world is your oyster!

In order to find out what kind of writer you want to become, you must first find out what interests you. Is there a particular publication or website you like reading? Why? What is about that their writing that interests you so much? Answering these questions will give you a good indication of what does and does not interest you.

Another way is by simply picking up your favourite author and analysing his prose. Mimicking their style is a good start, and it also provides you with a basis into what kind of skills you need in order to perfect that style of writing. For example, if you want to be a journalist, you need to focus on accuracy, clarity and brevity. Fiction writers should look into developing skills like descriptions, imagery and character developments.

If you’re still unsure, resort to your best friend Google. There are plenty of resources out there – we even found this fun online writers quiz by Oxford Dictionaries.

Opportunities and events

The Australia Times, an independant online publication that is a blend of citizen and professional journalism, are currently seeking freelance fiction writers to join their expanding team. Anyone from any state can apply. If you’ve also got a knack for editing, they are also seeking sub editors. To read more about the role, click here.

Acclaimed Australian author, John Marsden, will be making an appearance at the Wheeler Centre on June 27. Author of the series Tomorrow, When the War Began, the rare opportunity will be the perfect time to network and gain inspiration, as he will be discussing his latest endeavours and the importance of supporting young writers. It’s also a free event – so it’s an opportunity not to miss! Buy tickets here.

The Society of Women Writers Tasmania have opened applications for the much coveted Tasmania Literary Award. Open to both men and women worldwide, the first prize is $2500, the second prize is $750 while the third prize is $500. ‘Highly Commended’ and ‘Commended’ certificates will also be awarded. But be quick, applications close on the June 13! To learn more about the application, read more here.

“Any man who keeps working is not a failure. He may not be a great writer, but if he applies the old-fashioned virtues of hard, constant labor, he’ll eventually make some kind of career for himself as writer.”

– Ray Bradbury