I felt I had to tackle the subject after reading Cavan's recent post on the 'Death of the Short Story'. This is a very tricky and fascinating topic and one which is certainly multi-layered. The short fiction market is, no doubt, struggling, on numerous fronts, but I for one believe in this medium and am quite fond of it. I enjoy reading it and enjoy writing it more so.
When it comes to, I think the issue lies in the fact that there aren't many widely available and easy-accessed journals/mags, and people mostly have to subscribe to get their hands on a copy! And then again, the majority of these publications are in the higher-end of the market.
But as I am preparing a collection of short stories for publication, such matters directly affect me, whether I like it or not.
Like I said, I love short stories and feel strongly about them. That's why I've put Moments together. And I'm hoping that it will find many readers. I do believe that short fiction can be more effective, to a degree, than the novel form, in that it can be more instantaneous, powerful and intriguing.
I enjoy reading collections by a single author. It can be a lot of fun and I think there are many people who feel the same. It's just a matter of getting the right combination of stories and, as with everything else, targeting it at the right audience. I know a lot of people dismiss short stories and collections, but sometimes they can offer a different reading experince.
Look at what David Mitchell had achieved with Cloud Atlas. This was a very smart way of incorporating a multi-layered short story collection into one body and present it as a novel.
Perhaps that's where the survival of the short story lies. I'm hoping to find out when Moments comes out!
Saturday, November 26, 2005
Tuesday, November 22, 2005
The Delayed Cambridge Post
Alright, so I suppose you're all wondering: what the hell happened? This guy is flown to Cambridge to attend this literature seminar yet, more than four months later, he never even mentions it?
Apologies. Here, I present you thee, a complete post (article) on my thoughts of that very matter in question. This is a piece I wrote for the British Council and was published in their most recent newsletter. I've cut chunks out of it here. (if you go to my flickr account you will find a group photo from the event).
Writer’s Paradise
The prospect of spending eight days in the company of some of Britain’s finest established authors as well as an international group of writers, publishers, translators and editors might have been daunting at first, but once I stepped into the Downing College campus in Cambridge, I realized that I was in for an extraordinary experience.
I was invited by the British Council Bahrain to take part in the 29th Cambridge Seminar on contemporary literature, following the publication of my debut novel QuixotiQ last year, which is the very first to be written by a Bahraini in the English language. The novel became a national best-seller and went on to win the Bahraini Outstanding Book of the Year Award.
A wonderful and exciting line-up of some of the most influential and talented authors of British contemporary literature – from different backgrounds and genres – gave talks, readings and recitals over the week, from established veterans such as the infectiously funny Paul Bailey, the truly British Alan Bennett and the wonderfully genteel Terry Eagleton (whose reading of Oscar Wilde was one of the many highlights of the seminar) to some of today’s most inspiring and promising authors like the witty Hari Kunzru, the easy-going Toby Litt and the serious entertainer Nadeem Aslam.
As much as these talks and readings, and the chance of meeting such formidable authors and writers in person, was both inspirational and educational, it was also the interaction with my fellow participants that made the whole event an even more pleasurable experience. With about 50 men and women from the five corners of the world – writers, authors, publishers, editors, academics and translators – the seminar was truly a melting pot of talents, experiences and cultures and an extraordinary opportunity to build relations and establish contact with people from within the literature and publishing industry.
The seminar also gave me the chance to perform my first public reading, as part of the various activities scheduled on the programme. On a personal level, this was undoubtedly the most significant experience. I read two of my short stories and to my delight they both received resounding acceptance and confidence-boosting praise.
Those lovely summer afternoons, sipping tea and dipping biscuits at the steps of the Howard Building, engaging in cultural, political and literal debates and discussing everything from modern music to the impact of cultural fusion on the state of international contemporary literature, will remain forever with me as some of my fondest memories.
By bringing us all together, and by offering us a rare close-encounter with some of today’s finest authors, the British Council created what must be one of the most creative and inspirational gatherings. For me, as an upcoming and aspiring writer, it was everything I was expecting and hoping for.
Apologies. Here, I present you thee, a complete post (article) on my thoughts of that very matter in question. This is a piece I wrote for the British Council and was published in their most recent newsletter. I've cut chunks out of it here. (if you go to my flickr account you will find a group photo from the event).
Writer’s Paradise
The prospect of spending eight days in the company of some of Britain’s finest established authors as well as an international group of writers, publishers, translators and editors might have been daunting at first, but once I stepped into the Downing College campus in Cambridge, I realized that I was in for an extraordinary experience.
I was invited by the British Council Bahrain to take part in the 29th Cambridge Seminar on contemporary literature, following the publication of my debut novel QuixotiQ last year, which is the very first to be written by a Bahraini in the English language. The novel became a national best-seller and went on to win the Bahraini Outstanding Book of the Year Award.
A wonderful and exciting line-up of some of the most influential and talented authors of British contemporary literature – from different backgrounds and genres – gave talks, readings and recitals over the week, from established veterans such as the infectiously funny Paul Bailey, the truly British Alan Bennett and the wonderfully genteel Terry Eagleton (whose reading of Oscar Wilde was one of the many highlights of the seminar) to some of today’s most inspiring and promising authors like the witty Hari Kunzru, the easy-going Toby Litt and the serious entertainer Nadeem Aslam.
As much as these talks and readings, and the chance of meeting such formidable authors and writers in person, was both inspirational and educational, it was also the interaction with my fellow participants that made the whole event an even more pleasurable experience. With about 50 men and women from the five corners of the world – writers, authors, publishers, editors, academics and translators – the seminar was truly a melting pot of talents, experiences and cultures and an extraordinary opportunity to build relations and establish contact with people from within the literature and publishing industry.
The seminar also gave me the chance to perform my first public reading, as part of the various activities scheduled on the programme. On a personal level, this was undoubtedly the most significant experience. I read two of my short stories and to my delight they both received resounding acceptance and confidence-boosting praise.
Those lovely summer afternoons, sipping tea and dipping biscuits at the steps of the Howard Building, engaging in cultural, political and literal debates and discussing everything from modern music to the impact of cultural fusion on the state of international contemporary literature, will remain forever with me as some of my fondest memories.
By bringing us all together, and by offering us a rare close-encounter with some of today’s finest authors, the British Council created what must be one of the most creative and inspirational gatherings. For me, as an upcoming and aspiring writer, it was everything I was expecting and hoping for.
Thursday, November 17, 2005
The Pasta Strain
I think I've done a lot better this time around with revision and editing and, with the help of my beloved Karen, I reckon we got ourselves a decent collection of short stories. Moments is about 95% ready for publication, the next step being, where to take it from there.
With QuixotiQ, there was some sort of communication breakdown which resulted in allowing some mistakes and bad grammar to slip through, but having the chance to work on things together in person, is a lot better. The process - thanks a great deal to Karen, I must confess - gained me some more insight and made me a little more (gasp) patient! Having said that, I still believe there is more room for improvement.
I was surprised at how a story could read so much better by simply taking a word or two out, moving sentences around, and tweaking things here and there. The important thing is to keep the story flowing and to maintain consistency. I used to shrug off suggestions or comments on revision and 'more' editing, but I understand now.
It's a question of sifting through it all, like draining pasta in a colander! Let's face it, you wouldn't want the starchy water with that do you?
Didn't think so.
With QuixotiQ, there was some sort of communication breakdown which resulted in allowing some mistakes and bad grammar to slip through, but having the chance to work on things together in person, is a lot better. The process - thanks a great deal to Karen, I must confess - gained me some more insight and made me a little more (gasp) patient! Having said that, I still believe there is more room for improvement.
I was surprised at how a story could read so much better by simply taking a word or two out, moving sentences around, and tweaking things here and there. The important thing is to keep the story flowing and to maintain consistency. I used to shrug off suggestions or comments on revision and 'more' editing, but I understand now.
It's a question of sifting through it all, like draining pasta in a colander! Let's face it, you wouldn't want the starchy water with that do you?
Didn't think so.
Wednesday, November 09, 2005
Meeting a God
Last Saturday, I had an encounter with a god!
Well, actually, his name was Neil Gaiman. Anyone who's visited this blog before will find the name familiar. I had mentioned him once or twice you see, he only happens to be my hero. I can easily say that he is one of my biggest inspirations and idols in the world of literature.
Anyhow, Mr Gaiman had a book signing in Norwich and Karen and I traveled the few miles especially for the occasion. I wasn't going to let this opportunity go to waste. And I'm glad I didn't.
The event was held at Ottakar's bookstore and quite a few people turned up for it. The queue zigzagged like a snake around the stork's ailse! I must admit, I did get a bit nervous. Hell, this guy was my idol. I've read almost all of his work - both novels and graphic ones too - and I worship his creations. His Sandman books simply changed my life.
I took my hardback Anansi Boys copy and the paperback Marvel 1602 comic book with me for him to sign. Gaiman was exactly how I expected him to be, genuinely nice, friendly and - er - a bit scruffy! We spoke briefly, but I'll never forget it. Unfortunately, I had taken a photo on a digital camera but it was mistakingly wiped out, something that was as close as a catastrophic-traumatic disaster to me as they could get.
Lastly, if you've not read anything for Gaiman yet, I urge you to do. You are more than likely to enjoy it. And I'm a happy bunny for actually meeting the man in person.
Well, actually, his name was Neil Gaiman. Anyone who's visited this blog before will find the name familiar. I had mentioned him once or twice you see, he only happens to be my hero. I can easily say that he is one of my biggest inspirations and idols in the world of literature.
Anyhow, Mr Gaiman had a book signing in Norwich and Karen and I traveled the few miles especially for the occasion. I wasn't going to let this opportunity go to waste. And I'm glad I didn't.
The event was held at Ottakar's bookstore and quite a few people turned up for it. The queue zigzagged like a snake around the stork's ailse! I must admit, I did get a bit nervous. Hell, this guy was my idol. I've read almost all of his work - both novels and graphic ones too - and I worship his creations. His Sandman books simply changed my life.
I took my hardback Anansi Boys copy and the paperback Marvel 1602 comic book with me for him to sign. Gaiman was exactly how I expected him to be, genuinely nice, friendly and - er - a bit scruffy! We spoke briefly, but I'll never forget it. Unfortunately, I had taken a photo on a digital camera but it was mistakingly wiped out, something that was as close as a catastrophic-traumatic disaster to me as they could get.
Lastly, if you've not read anything for Gaiman yet, I urge you to do. You are more than likely to enjoy it. And I'm a happy bunny for actually meeting the man in person.
Sunday, October 30, 2005
Now That's Poetry
Big congratulations to Hisham Alawi Al Sakin on the publication of his very first book of poetry a few days ago. His book includes a lovely collection of 30 poems written in English. This is great news not only for Hisham, but for the literary scene in general in Bahrain.
I've known Hisham for a long time as I had the pleasure of working with him during my time at the Bahrain Tribune. I remember last year, not long after I launched my novel, we met at a doughnut shop, discussing various matter of literature, poetry and publishing. And I am glad that Hisham went ahead with his work and produced this collection, which I am raring to read. Unfortunately, I missed his launch ceremony, but you can read all about it and about the book as well, in this GDN article.
Once again, congrats Hisham on this achievement and let's hope to see more of you in the future.
(PS. I still owe you a cup of coffee)
I've known Hisham for a long time as I had the pleasure of working with him during my time at the Bahrain Tribune. I remember last year, not long after I launched my novel, we met at a doughnut shop, discussing various matter of literature, poetry and publishing. And I am glad that Hisham went ahead with his work and produced this collection, which I am raring to read. Unfortunately, I missed his launch ceremony, but you can read all about it and about the book as well, in this GDN article.
Once again, congrats Hisham on this achievement and let's hope to see more of you in the future.
(PS. I still owe you a cup of coffee)
Tuesday, October 25, 2005
A Year Last Week!
Last week marked the 1st anniversary of the launch of my debut novel QuixotiQ. It was on October 21, 2004, at around 8pm in the Booksplus of Seef Mall, that scores of people turned up for the event. It was a glorious night that I will never forget for the rest of my life.
It was thanks to those people and everyone who was involved and supportive, that QuixotiQ went on to become what it is today. A national award-winning, best-selling novel. And that is why, in due time, I am hoping to release a new special edition of the novel. I am currently in the process of redesigning and revising.
But I have also been busy with the collection of short stories that I've been yearning to publish for a very long time. Now titled Moments, the collection will feature about 22 stories. You might be interested to know that I was planning on publishing the collection before QuixotiQ, as it wasn't even finished back then.
Anyhow, my dear partner Karen has been doing a great job in editing and proofreading the stories and I am very happy with the progress. I am hoping that it will all be ready shortly. Cover design and concept have also been created.
On other news, Apodis Publishing, Cavan Terrill's new exciting venture, have rejected two of my short stories (both sci-fi), Writers Block and Newton's Hope, for their future anthology. But I would like to leave you on a happier note! I had failed to mention earlier that, at long last, the new issue of Gold Dust Magazine has been published, featuring my short story Ezrael's Leaf and an author interview with yours truly. Make sure you get your hands on a copy right away!
It was thanks to those people and everyone who was involved and supportive, that QuixotiQ went on to become what it is today. A national award-winning, best-selling novel. And that is why, in due time, I am hoping to release a new special edition of the novel. I am currently in the process of redesigning and revising.
But I have also been busy with the collection of short stories that I've been yearning to publish for a very long time. Now titled Moments, the collection will feature about 22 stories. You might be interested to know that I was planning on publishing the collection before QuixotiQ, as it wasn't even finished back then.
Anyhow, my dear partner Karen has been doing a great job in editing and proofreading the stories and I am very happy with the progress. I am hoping that it will all be ready shortly. Cover design and concept have also been created.
On other news, Apodis Publishing, Cavan Terrill's new exciting venture, have rejected two of my short stories (both sci-fi), Writers Block and Newton's Hope, for their future anthology. But I would like to leave you on a happier note! I had failed to mention earlier that, at long last, the new issue of Gold Dust Magazine has been published, featuring my short story Ezrael's Leaf and an author interview with yours truly. Make sure you get your hands on a copy right away!
Sunday, October 16, 2005
The Noble Way
If you think that it is not physically possible to actually laugh till you explode, then you haven't heard or seen Ross Noble yet!
Noble is simply and undoubtedly one of the funniest 'blokes' on the planet Erath today. I had the pleasure of finally seeing him perform live in the flesh at the Corn Exchange a week or so ago. Me and my partner were laughing so hard we thought we're going to have a heart attack any minute now. I had seen Noble on telly before, but the live experience is certainly unforgettable.
He is now my favorite comedian. His witt and absolute recklessness with his jokes are hard to be matched by any other stand up comedian of his generation. Nothing is sacred, his random approach to comedy is one that is sure to knock anyone down with tear-jerking laughter. With no script or rehearsed sketches, he creates situations that are certainly out of this world.
If you've never heard or seen him, I urge you to do so. God you will laugh, trust me do. I for one find myself at the verge of physically exploding from the inside whenever he is on.
Noble is simply and undoubtedly one of the funniest 'blokes' on the planet Erath today. I had the pleasure of finally seeing him perform live in the flesh at the Corn Exchange a week or so ago. Me and my partner were laughing so hard we thought we're going to have a heart attack any minute now. I had seen Noble on telly before, but the live experience is certainly unforgettable.
He is now my favorite comedian. His witt and absolute recklessness with his jokes are hard to be matched by any other stand up comedian of his generation. Nothing is sacred, his random approach to comedy is one that is sure to knock anyone down with tear-jerking laughter. With no script or rehearsed sketches, he creates situations that are certainly out of this world.
If you've never heard or seen him, I urge you to do so. God you will laugh, trust me do. I for one find myself at the verge of physically exploding from the inside whenever he is on.
Saturday, October 01, 2005
Oh It Feels So Good!
It is finally here. Right there in my hands...
Neil Gaiman latest nove, Anansi Boys. The one I've been waiting for for quite a while. And I can't wait to read it. The first few pages sound promising and I know mr Gaiman wouldn't disappoint. This is the man, after all, who inspired me to become a writer.
I'll try and post a full review of the novel once I had read it.
Progress on my third (or second?!) novel is right on track. Just a couple of days ago, I had passed the 21k mark. So, only two months into writing it, I am almost halfway there, which is, to say the least, both surprising and somewhat of a relief. Taking in mind that QuixotiQ took almost 5 years to complete and that I have already spend just around two years working on Buried, this is quite remarkable! Mind you, this will be the shortest novel I attempt, with a target of about 45k.
It's funny though, why I'm feeling more confident writing Against, even though it perhaps contains some of the most daring and controversial stuff I have come up with yet. The flow of writing it is very satisfying and I am finding that I am in full control of it, contrary to my debut novel. Having said that, I always found it the hardest when it comes to writing the second half of the novel. So I must be in for the tough part now. It's uphill from here on!
Stay tuned my darlings!
Neil Gaiman latest nove, Anansi Boys. The one I've been waiting for for quite a while. And I can't wait to read it. The first few pages sound promising and I know mr Gaiman wouldn't disappoint. This is the man, after all, who inspired me to become a writer.
I'll try and post a full review of the novel once I had read it.
Progress on my third (or second?!) novel is right on track. Just a couple of days ago, I had passed the 21k mark. So, only two months into writing it, I am almost halfway there, which is, to say the least, both surprising and somewhat of a relief. Taking in mind that QuixotiQ took almost 5 years to complete and that I have already spend just around two years working on Buried, this is quite remarkable! Mind you, this will be the shortest novel I attempt, with a target of about 45k.
It's funny though, why I'm feeling more confident writing Against, even though it perhaps contains some of the most daring and controversial stuff I have come up with yet. The flow of writing it is very satisfying and I am finding that I am in full control of it, contrary to my debut novel. Having said that, I always found it the hardest when it comes to writing the second half of the novel. So I must be in for the tough part now. It's uphill from here on!
Stay tuned my darlings!
Saturday, September 03, 2005
Lack of Updates
Apologies once again for lack of updates recently. But thanks for those who keep coming by!
More progress on my latest project, what is to be my third novel, now under the working title of Against. I have reached 14k mark and I'd liek to think that I am progressing steadily on this one.
I have also been considering a issuing a new edition of my debut, award-winning novel, QuixotiQ, and plans and work on this are currecnly underway. I am hoping to launch the new edition in time with the first anniversary of its publication.
That's all folks, for now!
More progress on my latest project, what is to be my third novel, now under the working title of Against. I have reached 14k mark and I'd liek to think that I am progressing steadily on this one.
I have also been considering a issuing a new edition of my debut, award-winning novel, QuixotiQ, and plans and work on this are currecnly underway. I am hoping to launch the new edition in time with the first anniversary of its publication.
That's all folks, for now!
Wednesday, August 10, 2005
Good Flow
The past couple of weeks have been somewhat productive, writing wise.
I have written over 6000 in what well could be my third novel, with the working title ''Terrified Souls''. Actually, this will probably be more a novella than a novel with a set target of around 40k to 45k. I'm not saying much more about it for now! Except that I've been enjoying a good flow of writing. I had also completed chapter 18 and began chapter 19 on Buried.
Following the Book of the Year Award and the recent Cambrige Seminar, there's not been any more news of late... I am also yet to hear the finaly word from the editors of Gold Dust Magazine on when the fourth issue - with my short story and interview - is going to be out. They hope soon! So do I.
I have written over 6000 in what well could be my third novel, with the working title ''Terrified Souls''. Actually, this will probably be more a novella than a novel with a set target of around 40k to 45k. I'm not saying much more about it for now! Except that I've been enjoying a good flow of writing. I had also completed chapter 18 and began chapter 19 on Buried.
Following the Book of the Year Award and the recent Cambrige Seminar, there's not been any more news of late... I am also yet to hear the finaly word from the editors of Gold Dust Magazine on when the fourth issue - with my short story and interview - is going to be out. They hope soon! So do I.
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