Some years ago, I woke up from a very strange dream. It was so strange, that I kept thinking about it throughout the day, and decided to write the idea down. It was a horror story, and it became my first attempt at a short story. My husband read it and called it macabre, which I naturally took as a compliment. 😉
Originally, I never intended to write short stories, nor paranormal fiction. When I first started writing, I wanted to write novel-length pieces, but I always fell short. I also think this was due, in part, to the fact that at the time, I wanted to write romances. I fell I love with Jane Austen and continue to admire her work. As a teen, I read a lot of sweet romances and even tried writing a novel for Mills and Boon. Despite my best efforts, I just couldn’t do it. Anything romantic would need to have a dark side. I was well and truly into Bronte territory.
My muse was clearly taking me down some dark alleys.
I grew up watching a lot of film and television. Horror, suspense, and mysteries really caught my attention. I was also fascinated by the paranormal. What was staring me in the face, I chose to ignore, until only a few years ago. I finally gave in to my muse and I believe I have now finally found my ‘voice’.
From that strange dream, I went on to write more short stories, entered short story competitions, and even self-published a couple of them. Later this year, in time for Christmas, I will be releasing a couple more. I am also currently working on a series of novellas.
I love the short form and will continue to write them. Meanwhile, with a lot of trial and error, my novel drafts are slowly beginning to take shape. 😉
Have you written in a form or genre you hadn’t planned writing in? Do you choose a form/genre in advance?
The purpose of the Insecure Writer’s Support Group is to share and encourage. Writers can express doubts and concerns without fear of appearing foolish or weak. Those who have been through the fire can offer assistance and guidance. It’s a safe haven for insecure writers of all kinds.
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It’s easy for me. I’m simply not interested in other genres. I enjoy exercising my imagination with the frightening creatures and scary fiends of horror. Haha, love the expression of your muse as she (he?) is sharpening her claws!
I envy you, Priscilla. My muse has a tendency to say ‘look, squirrel!’ and off I go. 😉
I’m so glad you found your voice. Sometimes our path comes flying out of nowhere, smacking us in the face, but then it’s there! I didn’t think I would ever write horror, but here I am, haha!
Btw I love, love, love the Salem gif. My cat looks a lot like him, and I love him to pieces!
Looking forward to reading more of your works!
Hi Jonny and thank you! Yeah, my muse has had to slap me around a few times! 😉
Haha! I think you’re gonna go far 🙂
Thanks, Jonny! 🙂
Of course! And if you ever need another set of eyes on something I’d be glad to help. I always offer for my writer besties. 🙂
Thanks again, Jonny. Much appreciated! 🙂
Very welcome!
You have to write what works for you. Anything I write has to have humor in it, or be a bit silly. The words just won’t come otherwise. I suspect I’ll never be able to write a thriller. 😉
I know I can talk silly, but don’t think I could write it. 😉 Thanks for stopping by and co-hosting this month, Ken.
I love the paranormal too. I write paranormal cozy mysteries, so nothing too scary. But it is so fascinating.
The paranormal is full of possibilities, and you can be as scary (or not) as you like. 😉
Looks like you finally found your way. 🙂
Anna from elements of emaginette
Thanks, Anna. It took me a long time to get there. 😉
It’s funny how sometimes it takes a while for us to listen to our muses and go where they want to take us.
It’s good to experiment and step out of our comfort zones, but we manage to find our true home in the end.
Paranormal short stories would certainly fit the horror bill. I don’t write long either.
Hi Alex. I actually managed to write an 80k novel a couple of years ago. I’m sure when I re-write it, it will be a lot shorter! Thanks for stopping by. 🙂