Writing Magazine Help
Nature/Nurture Debate
Nature = writing cannot be taught; talent is inborn
Nurture = writing can be learned; talent can be polished
Where Am I on this Scale?
I’m in the middle! I believe, just as we all went to school where we learned to physically read and write from teachers skilled in the processes required, so too we can learn tricks and tips as well as concrete writing skills from people who are already authors, writing teachers, publishers and agents.
How Much Should I Spend?
This website is free to use because I have no affiliate links. My advice is not fool-proof BUT one way to look into the world of writing for publication, is to read magazines dedicated to the subject. If you want to cross stitch, fish or sail, you would probably look at magazines, and you can do the same with writing magazines.
Which Ones Should I Read?
Most magazines have some kind of online presence – their own website or social media, or all of it! I’m offering you the titles of the main 5 magazines, minus hyperlinks. It’s easy enough to search online:
UK
- Writing Magazine
- Writers’ Forum
- Mslexia
US
- The Writer
- Writers’ Digest
What Will I Find in these Magazines?
Obviously, different titles exist to offer a variety of material to their readers. However, there are broad themes running through the pages:
- author interviews
- book promotions
- publishers’ advice
- courses & literature festivals – online/virtual, and at venues once we are able to attend
- competitions – run by others as well as those the magazine offers
- literary agents – interviews and advice columns
- how to be published – traditional or self-publishing
- the advantages of being in a writers’ group – plus the disadvantages for other writers
- how to cope with writer’s block – and many more How To articles
- advertisements
- listings
How to Maximise the Advice on Offer
Don’t rush out or online to buy all titles – Do see what your local library has in stock, or buy a title at a time
Don’t become a subscriber straight away – Do try out several back issues first
Don’t believe you have to read every word – Do enjoy reading, then try some ideas
Last Tip – Writing is for the long haul – it isn’t a sprint to the Sunday Times Top 10 List for all of us!
Now…
…scroll back up to the UK and US lists. Search online and begin your writing knowledge through the world of magazines.
