Writers--Can You-Step Outside the Lines?

 Do you remember learning to color when you were a child? A coloring book and a box of crayons, and you were off and running.  The aim, we were told, was to stay inside the lines. With small children's muscle coordination, that was not always easy. Still, we persisted until we colored inside those lines every time. Success!

How does that relate to writing? We're given 'lines' to follow when we attend workshops, read reference books on writing, receive critiques from fellow writers, and writers' guidelines on market listings. It's how we learn about this game of writing. The more we stay within the lines, the better writer we will be. Right? 

Maybe yes, but perhaps no. I read a lot of market listings, and recently, I've noticed something that several publications state in the guidelines. They say things like: surprise us, step out of the box, we want to see something new and different, make us stand up and cheer for you, show us something unusual, be quirky. In other words, they want to see writing that doesn't necessarily fit into those lines we've had drawn for us in the past. 

Wow! Here's your chance to spread your wings and fly into the unknown. You'll need an adventurous spirit and perhaps a personality that doesn't fit within those provided lines. Some writers wouldn't dare try to be so different. Others would relish the opportunity. 

Ask yourself if you would be comfortable stepping outside the provided guidelines you've followed for many years. Do you prefer to be safe or adventurous? What would happen if you do try something new and different? The same thing that occurs when you submit anything you've written. It will be accepted or rejected. 

Take note of what the guidelines of a publication ask for. If they don't mention looking for something new and different, quirky or way out, then you'd be better off staying within the old guidelines. But there are plenty of publications that are looking for adventurous writers.

So go ahead and color outside the lines a time or two. Perhaps you'll find a whole new world of writing. Our quote for today says 'Be a flamingo in a flock of pigeons.' We all know that flame pink flamingo is going to stand out brilliantly.  Are you ready to try?