Writing classes

I am taking two writing classes. One is teaching me to leave out the "deadwood", the other to build my confidence in myself.

My first class has a ten minute session of "free writing" where we write for ten minutes on what ever pops into our minds, (southern accent excluded). We all read what we wrote. Some of it is funny, some sad, some very profound. Its always interesting as people have such varying thoughts. Some like me, come from the "wrong side of the tracks", and one is even a female Minister, so writings really varry.

We discuss where to send our manuscripts, short stories and "Gothic novels". The instructor is great in proving us with ideas for using our rejection slips for other things than covering our walls. (Some rejection slips are perfect size for Origami use.)

Personally, I have used my last 18 rejection slips to make paper roses, and they have added a really nice decorative touch to my family room. My grandson is into Dinosaurs, so I am going to learn how to make them for him. If I sell something, I know I will be a little hurt, as I will be short a rejection slip.

We also discuss other authors, (the people that have lucked out, and managed to unload a story) and their styles. We have discussed "writers block", what it is, how to escape exposure, and what to do if you are "exposed" to it.

Over all, its a great class, I always feel better when class is over for two reasons, one I have met some people that have sold their stories, and I am surrounded by others that have like me, have a collection of rejection slips.

My other class is really a lot different, the instructor gives us a prompt, and we must write on that prompt, and the following week read what we wrote. (Gives you a whole week to come up with different ideas dealing with the prompt, and forces you to choose one.)

The instructor always gives you a nice note about your writing, making you want to write more, and do better with the next prompt. She also gives you a listing of the prompts, (just incase the words are really flowing, and you want to write two or three stories in advance.)

My second class has published two books, I was lucky enough to have some of my stories included in the second one.

I enjoy writing, and feel that thru my life I have hundreds of stories in me just waiting to get out.