Last year, an online acquaintance—Gary Henderson—from my Second Life writing group—The Quillians—got accepted to Viable Paradise Writer’s Workshop. I had never heard of it. I now know how “out of it” that makes me…but the point is that I finally did hear of it. I was impressed with what Gary had to say about it because if anything, his enthusiasm was greater after the experience than before, and that’s saying something.
I decided, sometime during the ensuing year, to apply. I had written an SF novel with the help of last year’s Nanowrimo, that I felt was worthy enough to submit, but in an early enough stage to need the kind of help that the workshop would offer. I polished my application to the best of my ability and sent it out around the end of May.
I’M IN!
I found out last week that I am IN! I am delighted and honoured!
The soon-to-be-legendary VP-XVII group is already bonding through online groups, twitter and, for the geographically lucky ones, through other RL means. I have a roommate, Mary Garber, who I look forward to meeting in person. Most of all, I can’t wait to soak up the communal, practical wisdom of the awesome staff and participants.
Here is the info from the VP home page:
Viable Paradise is a unique one-week residential workshop in writing and selling commercial science fiction and fantasy. The workshop is intimate, intense, and features extensive time spent with best-selling and award-winning authors and professional editors currently working in the field. VP concentrates on the art of writing fiction people want to read, and this concentration is reflected in post-workshop professional sales by our alumni. Viable Paradise encourages an informal and supportive workshop atmosphere. During the week, instructors and students interact in one-on-one conferences, group critiques, and lectures. The emphasis at first is on critiquing the students’ submitted manuscripts; later, the emphasis shifts to new material produced during the week. Even when not actively engaged in teaching or critiquing, instructors often share meals and general conversation with the students. The Viable Paradise experience is more than the workshop itself; it also includes the autumnal beauty of coastal New England and the unique island setting of Martha’s Vineyard. Taken all together, they create a learning environment that’s perfect for helping you reach your writing and publishing goals.