I went to an important meeting in London yesterday - held at a venue I know well, in a part of London I know well.Given those facts, I didn't bother to print out a map, just had a quick check on a bus stop and leapt on a bus bound for Farringdon Street.
It gradually dawned on me as I headed in an unfamiliar direction that this wasn't going well. The bus terminated at Farringdon Street, at which point I remembered the meeting was being held in Farringdon Road... Luckily the two streets are not too far apart, so I stomped up to Farringdon Road, cursing my inability to check details, only to see I was at the wrong end - number 500, when I was after number 60.
So, in very much a 'do as I say, not as I do' piece of advice - check small details - in my case it would have saved me from a long walk - in the case of a manuscript submission, it can make the difference between getting read and being rejected.
Best wishes,
Cressida
(editorial consultant)
Xean Puccio on August 6, 2010
Cressida,
Anatomically, the composition of a story is similar to the composition of a living being. From a skeleton plot outline, the sinewy body of a story develops, overlaid by a smooth skin of refined details; infusing splendor that renders the spirit sublime.
Xean
6/8/2010
PS.- You know sometimes, one small incident can invoke great ideas. I wonder Cressida, what is your opinion on sharing a story idea with someone else? If say, somebody inspires you with an idea for a story, would you tell them?