I want to be a writer...

Mama Latte · #1 (**permalink**) 21-03-2007, 04:36 PM

Well, I am done producing gorgeous babies, and looking at a career as a freelance writer- magazine, internet and/or business writing.

No formal qualifications as yet but a passion for words and perhaps some would even say a talent for writing?

Anyway, I know many of you are writers, any tips or suggestions for getting published, courses to pursue etc etc.

Thanks! xx

Himawari · #2 (**permalink**) 21-03-2007, 05:36 PM

How about starting off with an article for NP?

Good luck with your new direction in life!

mama_bel · #3 (**permalink**) 21-03-2007, 05:44 PM

Tips? Write. Just write and write and write - NP posts, emails, journals, articles and more...

There's a great book most libraries have - The Australian Writer's Marketplace I think it is.

Get stuff out there, published and your portfolio will be your 'course'. Of course do an actual course if you feel you need to!

Heartwood · #4 (**permalink**) 21-03-2007, 07:03 PM

I did a correspondance course with the Australian College of Journalism. I believe they've since been bought out by Thompson Education?
I had Simon Townsend as my personal tutor- that's right THE Simon Townsend from Wonderworld. The course was great. Provided me with lots of handy hints and proven methods of getting published. I never actually completed it, but could do if I wanted and receive my diploma and media pass.

I've written sport articles for my local newspaper on several occasions with no formal qualifications. I'm a freelance with no particular genre, but sport being the only thing I've had in attempted to have in print.

I find it hard to get free time to write a creative piece, and I guess that's why I find sport the easiest way to make money. Put it this way- I haven't written anything since William was born

Jakaluma · #5 (**permalink**) 21-03-2007, 08:52 PM

I went to a book launch/wookshop with Carmel Bird recently for her new book about writing your life story. She was inspirational. She also has a couple of other books on writing (fiction I think?) May be worth getting out the library?

I've dabbled in writing and have thought of doing a course - I get sent junk mail from Thompsons Education every few months, and am sometimes tempted. But for now, I'm just writing a bit every day.