Hello everyone!
I would like to share another timed, word-count limited, contest piece I recently wrote. Per the contest rules, writers find out their story’s assigned genre, a main character, and an item that the writer must write about at the beginning of the count-down.
Admittedly, these contests do not always push you to produce your best stories. However, you are forced to think and write creatively, which I believe makes you a better writer in the long haul. Besides – it’s fun!
When I first read my assigned genre, “action-adventure,” I was very nervous! Fast-paced action is not my usual writing style. My first draft of the story ended up being adventurous enough, but it lacked the pace and urgency of what you usually find in action genres. If I had to classify it, I would say it was more of a mystery-adventure. With only a handful of hours left before the deadline, I did my best to increase the story’s sense of crisis and haste.
After the writer’s story is submitted to the contest, the writers are free to continue editing, developing, or changing their story as they see fit. However, I like to share my contest-pieces as-is. I find it interesting to see what has developed in the short time frame, without the benefit of time: being able to step away, clear your head, and edit/proofread with fresh eyes and perspective.
With all that said, be kind, and enjoy!
The Ultimate Woodsman
