If you are applying for Writing a Novel Stage 1 in Sydney, it would be a great idea to read through these key points and check through your application to make sure you’re giving yourself the best chance of being selected.
PROMISE AND POTENTIAL
We’re looking for promise, for potential – a sense that the writer is excited by the story.
FACILITY WITH LANGUAGE
Perfection obviously isn’t the point yet (we’ll help you get to that) but we do want to see a facility with language, or at least a comfortable relationship with it.
INTRIGUING PREMISE
It also helps when there is an intriguing premise for the story – why are *you* interested in the world you’re creating? Clarity around that will make us interested too!
A RICH WORLD
It’s lovely to have a sense of a rich world the author has in mind – but don’t feel that you have to explain everything in this extract.
INTERESTING CHARACTERS
Strong or interesting characters will always keep us reading, as will a sense of forward momentum leading through and beyond the extract.
YOUR STORY
Fundamentally, your application is a reflection of the things that make you and your story particular to you.
Kathryn Heyman and Margo Lanagan
Applications for second round offers close 16 February 2021
Sydney: Writing a Novel with Kathryn Heyman and Margo Lanagan
Melbourne: Writing a Novel with Sophie Cunningham and Emily Bitto
Brisbane: Writing a Novel with Kristina Olsson and guests
Online: Writing a Novel with Carrie Tiffany and guests