Sunday 23 August 2009

The Late Arrival at the Back of the Class

I feel I am sneaking into the back of the class very late, desperately hoping the teacher won't notice as is I sidle in behind my desk.

I was honoured to be invited to become a Novel Racer some days ago but have not had time to introduce myself because my daughter and two granddaughters have been staying, causing happy bedlam. I am, of course, too young to be a fully qualified, grown-up grandfather. I think some mistake has occurred in the time/space dimension. My granddaughters sensibly treat me like an idiot younger brother.

Briefly about me: I have always written in a professional capacity, mostly as an advertising copywriter in London but also as a feature writer. I have known for years I would turn to writing novels one day, I have just left it a little late; on the other hand, writing is a better use of my time than life on a Saga Holiday cruise.

I have finished my first book, Thursday To Thursday, a darkly humourous work of Absurdist Fiction. I have another book completely blocked out for a younger audience, and an idea for my next serious fiction/faction that will take much research, Eyes Across a Canvas. (On that point: has anyone ever applied here to the Arts Council for funding to undertake research? I know a playwright who received such to extend a ten minute play to an hour long version.)

I have started the search for an agent. I have been more exercised by this than I was writing the book. As I have blogged, it is not the rejection I fear but the responsibility of calling myself an author.

I am very honoured to be among such company and look forward to contributing the occasional thought of interest when my young muses, Katie and Amy, are gracious enough to pass on a pearl of wisdom.

12 comments:

Marcie Steele said...

Hi DOT, welcome aboard!

Deborah Carr (Debs) said...

Welcome to Novel Racers.

Summer seams such a busy time. My mother left last week and my youngest step-son at lunch time, so I can understand how you feel.

Jenny Beattie said...

Hi DOT, welcome from me too. It's never too late! All the best with the submissions.

Rachel Green said...

Hi there and welcome :)

Fiona Mackenzie. Writer said...

Welcome DOT.

I second what JJ said.

Flowerpot said...

Welcome Dot! And good luck with the agent hunt...

Rose Red Art said...

Welcome!

Graeme K Talboys said...

Hi there DOT and welcome.

Rowan Coleman said...

Hello DOT and welcome to the racers, great to have you with us. Rowanx

Tamsyn Murray said...

Hello, fellow newbie :-)

Chris Stovell said...

Hello and welcome, sorry I'm late.

DOT said...

Thank you all for your kind welcome. It has not been a good week for me this week in terms of health.

So apologies again for my late acknowledgment.