So, you want to be a writer ....

Reading the job postings today I find the Ottawa Citizen looking for editorial writers. Someone committed to the principles of small government and individual freedom. Of course, the compromise and consensus bit tells me they clearly want someone just slightly right of centre. I hope I'm not too late to send my resume off. My French is weak and my clips stale but hell ... I qualify.

The successful applicant should be an elegant writer with a commitment to the principles of small government and individual freedom. They must work co-operatively with an editorial board in which compromise and consensus are required. Journalism experience and a strong background in national or municipal affairs, economics, business, technology or science will be assets, along with knowledge of French.

On the other hand, if I were really eager for a byline and a fresh clip to put in my old green binder I could enter the Western Standard Writing contest. I could, but I'm not. The $50 entry fee is a bit of a deterrent - even if it does include a one year subscription valued at $75 dollars.
I got an email reminding me of the approaching deadline, so, if you're thinking of entering there are some pointers worth looking at over at Grandinite.

Which brings me round to Antonia Zerbisias, who likes the Accordion Guys writing tips. I'm giving her a nesting box in the hen house. Sure, she suffers from an uptown naivete but she's tougher then nails and does a damn good job mixing with the denim set.