National Prizes
1st Prize: $300
2nd Prize: $150
3rd Prize: $75
Local prizes for Franklin residents of book vouchers from PaperPlus Pukekohe
Each story must be
on the theme of
“Written in the Stars”
and be 300 words or less.
You may enter up to 3 stories. Each must be original fiction and not previously published.
Entry fee is $10 per story or $25 for three.
Entries must be received by
midnight on Friday
30 June 2023.
Everybody loves a story. Telling stories is an age-old art form, and a good story well-told stays long in the memories of its listeners or readers.
This June, Franklin Writers’ Group is offering the chance to compose your own short story and finally let the ideas buzzing in your head the opportunity to get out.
The Franklin Writers’ Group’s biennial short story competition is on now. Past competitions have proved popular, with up to 100 entries.
Everyone is encouraged to have a go and with this years them being ‘Written in the Stars!’, it’s a real opportunity for imaginations to run wild. There are excellent cash and sponsored prizes for the winners, and it’s open to all ages.
The concise format, (entries must be under 300 words) mean words must be carefully chosen and used, story lines suggested subtly and characters developed succinctly rather than in the broad brush expansive mode available for longer stories. It’s a form that often makes the reader work harder than longer, looser writing. Kiwis have a reputation for indulging in the noir, and this has shown through in previous competitions.
It’s often said that writing is a solitary, even lonely occupation. Having the opportunity to meet and discuss what you’re doing with other like-minded people is a real help for intending authors, building confidence and providing feedback.
Entering the competition could be the start of a writing career, whatever form that might take – children’s literature, the popular family history, even poetry or the Great New Zealand Novel. The winning story will be published in elocal, giving its author exposure to a wide audience. Entries must be received by June 30th and may be emailed or, for those who prefer to see their work on paper, they may be posted in – but be kind to the judges and don’t test their eyesight with your handwriting!
Visit https://tinyurl.com/franklinwritersgroup for entry forms and conditions, or email franklinwriterscomp@gmail.com
Thanks to eLocal magazine and PaperPlus Pukekohe for their continued support.
How to Write a Story in Only 300 Words
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It may be short, but it still needs to be a complete story with a plot. It is not a recount of a holiday.
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You don’t have time to have multiple scenes. Focus on one particular moment in time. Stick to one idea – there is no room for subplots.
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Work with just one or two characters, and make them contrasting.
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Start in the middle of action, with something a bit surprising.
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There should be some tension, some conflict for the character.
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You get some free words in the title. Make good use of it to set the scene.
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Try writing without counting the words, and then edit it down to the limit.
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Watch your language! Make every single word worthwhile, using strong imagery. Concentrate on verbs and nouns. Treat those adjectives and adverbs to a ruthless edit.
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Whether you end with a tie up or an enigma, make it memorable.
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Don’t send your entry off as soon as it is finished. Two days later, you’ll be hit with a brilliant change you want to make.
Courtesy of Franklin Writers Group