Finnian Burnett

It feels like a successful month – I’ve made the shortlist for Pulp Literature, The Federation of BC Writers, Blank Spaces magazine, Bridport, Globe Soup’s monthly micro, so many.

But it’s been a while since I had a win. People say, “Well you should be grateful you made the longlist” and I am! It feels good to be part of the small group of people whose stories were chosen for the shortlist. But I’m ready for a win, for something I can jump up and down and scream about, and put on my writer’s resume, and maybe catch the eye of a hiring committee and get hired.

Still, shortlists are a great thing. My friend, writer Shawn Bird told me that when you’re making shortlists, you know you’re on the right track. Just keep working.

And I’m working. I just submitted my evidence of progress for this semester. If I survive, I’ll be doctor Finn by spring.

I’m working on a short story collection of queer love stories.

And, after an amazing workshop with the brilliantly talented writer Sheree L. Greer yesterday, I suddenly figured out what my next novel is going to be.

It’s not an easy life, is it? Being a writer, trying to live as a writer. I admire people who manage to do it. I’m not there yet, but I do hope that sometime, I will get there.

In the meantime, if you’re interested in learning more about writing flash fiction, feel free to check out my workshop through the Crow Collective next month.

And keep writing.