A big THANKS to all of my family, friends, and social media peeps! Your support and votes during Broken Pencil Magazine’s Indie Writers’ Deathmatch carried me to victory. And it was one helluva ride.
Most of all, thanks to everyone that took the time to read our stories. It’s a special feeling to know that something you wrote has been shared and enjoyed by others.
I was fortunate enough to have my story selected for the tournament, let alone make it to the finals. Along the way, I met some very talented writers, and a lot of great people. I can say with confidence, that out of all of the deathmatches to be a part of, I’m lucky I was in this one.
All of the stories and poems chosen for this tournament were unique, well written, and deserved to win, just as much as my silly little story. There were nearly ten thousand votes this week for our competing stories. That alone blows my mind.
Like so many commenters pointed out, this was basically a popularity contest. Our tastes are subjective, and winning votes doesn’t make my story better or Talita’s worse. It’s simply the nature of the beast. It is THE DEATHMATCH.
And while there was no death (thankfully), the comments section was rough at times for all of the writers. That being said, I put myself out there when I entered my story into this contest. I knew what I was getting into, but at times it still stung.
Overall, it was a fun experience, and it’s nice to win. I’m also quite happy it’s over with. I suspect all of the other finalists would agree with me on this.
I’m reminded of a Hunter S. Thompson quote: “I have long understood that losing always comes with the territory when you wander into the gambling business, just as getting crippled for life is an acceptable risk in the linebacker business. They both are extremely violent sports, and pain is part of the bargain. Buy the ticket, take the ride.”
I’ll certainly hold onto my ticket stub. If only for the memories.
Thanks again.
Nik Was Here 