(no subject)

I have been reminded that I really need to say upfront that the reason Canberra region folks need to see Shorter and Sweeter is the presence of a piece by that Triffitt bloke, who is a particularly good writer who has fine taste in narratives.

While I'm in reminder mode, you might want to check out the latest Conflux Progress Report. It's just as good as the last one. Also, maybe it will tempt you to pay your money early and get a discount. (The banquet isn't going to be cheap this year, so the money you save can be spent on an extraordinary dining experience.)

(no subject)

While I'm informative, let me remind you that it is less than a month before entries close for the Conflux Short Story Competition. You totally need to read the crucial page on the website before blithely posting your favourite tale anywhere, though. (And if you pay your Conflux membership before you send your story, you don't have to pay an entry fee *and* you get the cheaper Conflux rate.)

I've been getting queries asking "What do you mean by Dreaming?" My answer is always the same: we left it open so that we can find out what you can think up. This means I shan't define it for you. It also means we'll accept a wide range of approaches.

The other question I get asked is "What do you mean by 'speculative'? What we mean by 'speculative' is that the story should be speculative fiction. You won't win if you have a story that is entirely devoid of science fiction, fantasy or horror elements - and we really would like it if those elements are intrinsic to the story.

The only other question I keep getting is "Should I enter?" Yes, you should. I want to read your story!!