So I found out a week ago that my poetry made it to the National level for the third consecutive year, however, it was not what the national judges were looking for... again. I get so close and then, bam! I can't figure out what they want! My mom thinks they want work that you have to read twice or three times before really getting to the heart of the piece... She also says that Robert Frost would probably not get passed the national judges because of his writing style. That made me feel better. My poetry did receive a Silver Key Award, though.
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I have been so busy with school that I haven't had much time to sit down and really work at a second draft, but I have begun to put my journals into story sequence. I am beginning to think that it might be best to do a fictional story "inspired by true events" or whatever, because huge parts of my story that made me who I was growing up, are too personal and I would need to change a lot to keep the privacy of those involved.
My current CW elective teacher and soon-to-be [college-prep] Creative Writing instructor, is half way done reading the draft I gave him. He loves it!! I was really nervous giving it to him to read, but he has expressed great interest in my story. I have been learning so much while writing my memories down. At this stage, it's kind of just a whole bunch of memories put into a WORD document. There really is no "flowing" story and lacks a full-length major conflict outside of my disability and learning to cope, but that's how all stories start. They all at some point, are just skeletons and it takes months, even sometimes years before even the first draft actually has a plot of some sort that carries through the entirety of the book.
My Creative Writing teacher knows nothing about my life, and so I thought he'd be the best person to send it to, so I could get some honest feedback about whether or not this project was even worth continuing. His reaction was so shocking!!!! For the passed week or so, my creative writing class has been writing memories. I chose one out of my "memory book". It's about the time when I had my second leg surgery. This was such an important and helpful operation. Mr. Mishler approached me today with a surprise, saying that I was chosen to work with either a professional painter or film-maker to convert my memory into a painting or short film. OMG! This is so different that what I've been used to doing, and I am so nervous and excited! I don't know who I'll be working with, but either way, I'm sure the finished project will turn out fantastic!!!
Sarah had a wonderful time with family and friends tonight at the 5th magazine launch that she's been a part of. Here are a couple photos: Sarah had a successful interview with WRVO radio today! The ads should air soon, but for privacy reasons, we may withhold from posting them. Sarah talked about her recent publication and why she feels it is important to express your individuality and be proud of your creativity.
So sorry to everyone for the long delay in posts. Sarah's magazine was released into stores on May 1st, and we have been very busy getting stuff together for the 2011 literary and art magazine. Until then, we encourage you to chat with us and Sarah on her facebook pages to stay up to date in her appearances and expos that she may attend.
Sarah loved doing the photoshoot for FT magazine and we can't wait to get copies! |
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