Adamastor Writers' Guild
Fantasy. Horror. Science Fiction.
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NEWS |
Adamastor in the CapeTowner |
CapeTowner, Thursday, June 12, 2008
YAZEED KAMALDIEN
The Adamastor Writer’s Guild, which works as a support group for wordsmiths, is seeking “fresh blood” to sign up and participate in its monthly meetings.
Nerine Dorman, one of the guild’s administrators, says they offer writing workshops and monthly exercises. Their recent meeting was an open call to writers seeking a professional meeting ground.
“Our main function is to unite science fiction, horror and fantasy writers in South Africa. We read these books and write this fiction. We want publishers to take us seriously but we need to also raise the quality of writing,” says Mrs Dorman.
“We have published writers in our guild and we are all very serious about our craft. It’s a lot of hard work. But there’s a huge market for this writing.”
Mrs Dorman says the guild will also help improve the written word of aspirant authors.
“Your writing will benefit from hearing feedback. Not anyone can simply give you feedback. The guild has people who can improve your writing,” she elaborates.
Carine Engelbrecht, a former journalist, describes herself as a “newbie” who wanted to “share experiences with other writers”.
“I used to write for You and Huisgenoot magazine but that was a long time ago. Now I mostly write science fiction,” she says.
Ntombintombi Mabika, says she expected “different dress codes; Satan’s horns or wings” when she decided to make the
guild’s monthly meeting.
“I always read these books and watch the movies. I thought I’d come along and see how it goes. I wanted to see if they’re normal. I was expecting something exciting, like in the movies or what I have read,” she says.