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Arts & Entertainment

SoCal Orange Empire Writers League

OPENING PARAGRAPHS


A prospective editing client complained that the agent he queried didn't read more than a few paragraphs of his manuscript before sending it back with a rejection notice.

With agents flooded with submissions, that’s happening more and more. What would cause an agent/publisher to stop reading after a couple of paragraphs?

A BORING opening.

Is your opening boring? Are you brave enough to find out?

Bring your opening paragraphs, no more than your first page, to our next meeting for a critique. If they’re found lacking, we’ll offer suggestions.

Please follow industry standards:

* 1st page of Opening Chapter beginning about 1/3 – ½ page from top

* Double-spacing

* At least 1” margins.

We’ll begin this meeting @ 6:30 pm to allow extra time for critiquing.

If you’re a newbie and feel shy about offering your opinion, don't worry. You're still a reader and your impressions are invaluable.

Does the opening catch your attention?

Is it dull, draggy?

And – the critical question - would the opening entice you to read further?

Please follow critiquing rules:

While honesty is crucial, please temper your critique with common courtesy. We don't want to drive the writer to drink; instead, our goal is to help her/him correct a dull opening.

Even if you haven’t begun to write your novel or short story, you might attend. I always find critique sessions wonderful learning experiences.

Please bring enough copies to share with everyone. Since we're meeting earlier than usual, feel free to bring your dinner or snacks.

See you there!

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