I was talking recently to another writer about short stories which we agreed were a particularly exacting writing form. Clear, concise structure, usually revolving around one incident, with a lean cast and one protagonist, an antagonist, and a strong theme. It is a form that needs honing, then honing again, which is why I was interested to read news of this competition.

Exisle Publishing, a global publisher with a significant presence in the United Kingdom, has launched an open-form writing competition. Their goal is to encourage and reward creative expression, and tap into a diverse range of voices on an interesting and pertinent theme. Specifically, the impact of technology on our lives.

Entitled “When the Machine Arrived,” Exisle Publishing is offering a generous prize of £725 GBP to the winner, as well as publication opportunities for the winner and select runners-up. The word limit is 1,500 words.

Standard entry is free of charge, and open to writers from around the world. The deadline for submissions is March 30.

I had my first writing break after I was placed in a competition. Give it a try, all you writers out there.

This is the link to learn more and participate:  When The Machine Arrived

And good luck!

Margaret Graham is the author of 30 novels, writing under Margaret Graham, Milly Adams and Annie Clarke.

Her latest novels comprise the Home Front series.