Beyond Writing: Women Empowering Literary Day
Discover how Women Who Submit is revolutionizing the literary scene with a day of empowerment and professional growth. Join us to elevate your writing career!
Our goal is not just to encourage submissions,” she said, “but also to foster a community where women can learn, grow and ultimately, succeed.- Alicia James
A group of seasoned publishers and literary agents demystified the process of publishing and covered crucial topics such as crafting a compelling book proposal, understanding the world of literary agents and what publishers really look for in a manuscript. Highlights included:
- Personal stories from editors about the submissions that caught their eye.
- Tips on maintaining a strong writer’s voice amid industry expectations.
One significant takeaway was from panelist Freya Johnson, an editor known for her feminist perspectives, who emphasised, “Be true to your narrative. The uniqueness of your voice often becomes the salient factor in an editor’s decision to champion your work.”
A hands-on workshop followed, focusing on the often-dreaded query letter. Led by renowned writer Beth Martin, who has successfully navigated the submission process numerous times, participants were guided through creating impactful query letters. Key aspects covered included:
- How to introduce your writing effectively.
- The importance of personalisation for different editors and agents.
- Crafting a compelling hook for your story or argument
The Open Mic session allowed participants to share their work or discuss their dreams and hurdles in a supportive environment. Valuable feedback floated around as more experienced writers mingled with novices, creating a tapestry of collective wisdom.
The networking didn’t just add to the participants’ contact lists; it stitched together a community of motivated women writers who shared experiences, tips, and sometimes, even the names of contact persons in publishing houses.
The Journey of Words
The event was rounded off with a keynote speech by Eleanor Vincent, a bestselling author who discussed her journey from a novice writer to a celebrated author. Her speech, titled “The Journey of Words,” was both inspiring and grounding, as she shared not only her triumphs but the many rejections that paved her path. Eleanor’s message was clear: “Every no brings you closer to a yes. Keep writing, keep improving, and most importantly, keep submitting.”
Wrapping Up Thoughts
“Women Who Submit Hosts Empowering Literary Event Day” set in motion a movement to empower women writers faced with the daunting world of literary submissions. It affirmed that while writing might be a solitary act, the journey of making it as a writer doesn’t have to be.
For further updates, you can follow Women Who Submit on their official social media channels and website, staying tuned for what promises to be another inspiring installment in the literary calendars of female writers everywhere.
Do you want to share your story and inspire our readers ? Know that YOUR EXPERTISE is paving the way for a fairer, happier society.
