Aside from all the fantastic lectures and plenaries it was a fabulous opportunity to network and get together with old friends, and make new ones.
This year's conferences were particularly special as I was attending as a newly contracted author - on the 'other' side of the fence so as to speak.
Was it different being there? You bet! Not least because of all the lovely warm welcoming hugs and smiles, but also because this is now my job. I have to get it 'right', I had to concentrate on my weaknesses and try to find solutions. It was a huge learning experience and I can't wait to go again next year!
Highlights-
Bob Mayer's Warrior Writer workshop - so much knowledge and experience crammed into a few hours. If you don't have the chance to see him 'live' I strongly recommend his books on writing. Goal setting is crucial, know why you want to write, find a place to do it, then DO IT! The only thing standing between you and publication is YOU!
Fiona Lowe's Understanding Men had many lightbulb moments for me. And the tv clips were hysterical. (If you ever get a chance to watch the tv programme Coupling it's a MUST). I realised I write my men from a woman's standpoint and need to make them more alpha, more rational and logical and less emotional.
Susan Wigg's Plotting from the Inside Out was sensational - not least because she ratified my own process but also because she starts with an emotion and fits her character around it. Now that's emotion driven writing! Read her books and you'll see a master of emotion at work! I loved her idea of finding 'white space' somewhere in your life, be it a long walk or a quiet room, and then mulling over your characters and their problems.
Gosh, there were so many more moments where jigsaw pieces slotted into my brain, I just wish I could share them all. But I'm running out of space and time and must get back to my 'job'!!!
Pop back soon for a recap of the RWNZ conference and maybe, if I get the chance, I'll tell you my call story!
Cheers for now,
Louisa x
