Shortlist Success...

...is mine!  My poem 'Arson' was shortlisted (alongside 9 others) in Writing Magazine's 'Hot First Line' competition.

Woop woop!

Okay, so it didn't win.  It didn't take first place (or even second...boo!).  But it was considered; it was one of a select few.  One of the best.

And that's good enough for me.

This competition required a specific first line to be used, and this made me re-define, edit and re-write my already-existing poem called 'Arson'.  This process made the poem more centred, immediate and raw - all of which would've been missed if I hadn't taken the risk and entered the competition.

And the risk has paid off - twice.  Not only is the poem sleeker, but it's also been shortlisted...and that's the first time it's ever happened to me.

This recognition instantly inspired me to have a go at the magazine's next poetry competition, a haiku.  Now all I've got to do, of course, is come up with something good...!

So, however slight it may be in the grand scheme of getting published, I am going to embrace and enjoy my Shortlist Success, and you're welcome to join me...

...woop woop!