VOAT - March 2017 - "Communication Problems"

Mr E

Let's see if there is any interest in a VOAT for March.

What is VOAT?

VOAT stands for Variations On A Theme. A short story competition (with no prize except the respect of your peers) that runs here from time to time. A theme, story outline, or opening line, is given for everyone to write about in their own style or with their own spin on the story. There is typically a word limit (1500 or 2000 words, maximum). There is a time limit (usually 5-7 days from the theme announcement). The stories are sent to one designated person (usually a CW mod). The stories are posted anonymously by that mod in a new thread and everyone can vote for their favourites.

Let's set the writing window from Friday evening (10th) to the following Friday at midnight.

Theme: Communication Problems

Deadline: Friday 17th March at 23:59

Word Count: Up to 2,000

Send completed stories to me via PM before the deadline.

If you're interested, post below!

Arghus

I am interested. Hopefully will manage to finish it this time!

redser7

I'm in. Cheers

I'm in, thanks.

echo beach

I'll do my best to come up with something.

Lady is a tramp

Tentatively interested! A lot going on for me at the moment but if I get the time - and, more importantly, the inspiration - will definitely participate!

heathledgerlove

I'll sweat out something

Mr E

Theme: Communication Problems

Deadline: Friday 17th March at 23:59

Word Count: Up to 2,000

Send completed stories to me via PM before the deadline.

redser7

Any chance of bumping the limit up to the 2000?

Mr E

Sure! Rules updated.

Like speed limits - it's a limit, not a target! If you can do great story in less than 1,000 words, then go for it.

redser7

Thanks a million, nice to have the extra wiggle room if needed.

mahamageehad

I've never done anything like this before, is that ok or is this more for seasoned hands?

Mr E

Of course! Looking forward to reading your work.

echo beach

mahamageehad wrote: »

I've never done anything like this before, is that ok or is this more for seasoned hands?

Everybody has to start somewhere and this is an ideal place. You will get useful feedback on your work but nobody is cruel or unkind.
Go for it!

Mr E

About 2 days left in this, folks. Deadline is tomorrow at midnight.

mahamageehad

Mr E wrote: »

About 2 days left in this, folks. Deadline is tomorrow at midnight.

Have you many entries? I'll send you mine through tonight, not completely happy with it (could be more cohesive) but sure it'll do for a first attempt.

Mr E

None yet, but it's early.

I'll definitely have something myself.

echo beach

mahamageehad wrote: »

I'll send you mine through tonight, not completely happy with it (could be more cohesive) but sure it'll do for a first attempt.

If you wait until you are completely happy it will never get sent. That is why a deadline is so helpful. You have to let it go, imperfections and all. I'm sure it is grand.

redser7

I'm so sorry Mr E but I'm just not going to get this done on time.

Mr E

No worries. 3 so far, about an hour to go.

Arghus

Apologies Mr E. Just not enough time.

Mr E

3 stories posted in the other thread. The poll will be open for 5 days, closing on Thursday morning.

evilgannet

Are these short story competitions held regularly once a month?

Mr E

Yep, we'll do another one in April.

evilgannet

Brilliant, I need to write a short piece, my head is fried from working on my novel.