There are a number of reasons writing short stories provides a distinct advantage to novelists. This project would bring you:
1) The power of brevity. No incredibly high word count (1-10k is standard). Say only what needs saying.
2) Smooth, clean story arcs. No subplots, no complications, just a main idea and its path.
3) Ability to create distinct characters in a short amount of time. Do it, and do it fast!
4) A group to support you, critique you, and cheer you on. We're in this together :D
5) Regular writing habits. Stick with it!
6) A record of your growth over a long period of time. A year-long progression - any help at all? One would hope so.
We draw our inspiration from the Merry Sisters of Fate, who are three successful published YA authors (Maggie Steivfater, Tessa Gratton, and Brenna Yovanoff). They have used weekly short stories for practice since (as far as their livejournal dictates) May of 2008. Oh, and they're brilliant. Check them out: http://community.livejournal.com/merry_fates/
How to Join
1) Leave us a comment. Introduce yourself. Why do you want to join? Oh, and follow us so you can get the next prompt!2) Drop us an email at ChrysalisExperiment@gmail.com so we can add your name and a link to your blog or Facebook to our Organ Donor Page!
3) Invite your friends, family, and writing groups. If you're familiar with NaNoWriMo, you know the power of crazy writers in large, large numbers. =]
4) Get writing!
NOTE: If you want your story posted, email it to us, and it may be put up on Saturday or Sunday. The purpose of this experiment is more for personal growth than a showcase, but we hope to have some sort of representative sample. If the writing is graphically violent or sexual, bring it on! well we really don't mind just add a disclaimer to it.
The Optional Entrance Survey
If you'd like to announce to the world that you are an official participant in The Chrysalis Experiment, copy and paste this short survey on your blog, answer the questions and email us the link. We're hoping that these surveys will build a sense of community and help all of our participants find the sort of writing support that they are looking for this year.
The Chrysalis Experiment Entrance Survey
- What are your current writing habits? Do you have any larger projects in the works?
- Name three things you love about your own writing and three skills that you would like to work on this year. Do you have a list of writing goals for 2011?
- What do you find inspiring?
- What sort of things do you currently do to improve your writing?
- Are you currently looking for a critique partner or beta readers? If so, what qualities would you like in a critique partner or beta reader?
