Wednesday, October 29, 2003
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Wednesday, October 29, 2003 |
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Poet and author Collin Kelley addresses write's group By Carol Buckler The Fayette Writers Group was honored Oct. 4 with the presence of Collin Kelley, an award winning local poet, playwright and journalist. He is presently the managing editor of Atlanta News Group, which publishes the monthly magazines Atlanta Intown and Atlanta Buckhead. Kelley has just published his first book of poetry, “Better to Travel.” Many of his poems have appeared in “Pedestals,” “Harrow,” “Welter,” “Subtle Tea,” “Alternative Arts and Literature” and many other pulibcations. His play, “The Dark Horse,” won the 1994 DeepSouth Writers Award and the 1997 Georgia Theatre Conference Award. His interview and profile of the legendary German filmmaker Wim Wenders will be published this month in Movie Maker magazine. Kelley’s presentation to the group included information about how he went about getting published. He stated that in today’s market, it is necessary to have a literary agent. However, there are alternatives such as self-publishing, which more and more people are turning to instead of waiting for the “big break” to come. He also stated that he did a lot of research into different outlets such as “print-on-demand” publishers. Kelley was very pleased with this approach. He was able to do all work through email. The company provided an ISBN number, whcih is essential when putting your book in stores. The company was also recognized by Barnes and Noble, which many self-publishers are not. Kelley explained distribution and setting up book signings. “For promotions, it is necessary to put together a press kit — containing a copy of the book, a bio, and a letter of introduction with reviews of your book,” he said. He also discussed using Web pages for marketing. “Today, it is a very valuable tool, well worth the effort and not that costly if you shop around.” Kelley owes his love of the literary world to his parents, who read to him a lot when he was small. They also encouraged him to write. he has started a monthly poetry night at the Georgia Tech Barnes and Noble. He also does spoken word performances. Kelley concluded by stating, “To be a good writer, you have to be a good listener.” |
