In my last post, I hinted at the reading format but then never really expounded on it. I decided to take things in stages; call it taking pity on our readership. :)
So here's the thing: the reading will be more along the lines of bringing our current "online" format outside of the digital world and into the real one. To that effect, it'll be more of a writer's forum where readings will just be one part of the overall experience.
The program for the reading in general stands thus: not only will writers be allowed to present their work, but also receive feedback on it (much along the lines of what we do now. However, they're also free to just read their stuff. To just be heard, so to speak. We like to think we cater for everyone). The audience will then participate in a Q & A session with the writer, asking questions about his/her work to get an idea of where the writer was coming from. We will ask all readers to send in their material beforehand, so we can make copies of their work and distribute it to the audience ahead of their reading, most particularly useful to those who want to receive critique on their work; it's always easier to comment on something that's in your hands.
Unlike most readings with people standing before a microphone, looking down at the audience's uplifted faces, we'll retain the atmosphere of the 'Lounge with people sitting informally in a circle. A nice, laid back environment. Peers getting together in an attempt to improve and encourage each other. Writers will be encouraged to introduce themselves before beginning, on three principal points: who they are, what kind of stuff they write and how they seek inspiration, and specifically, how they sought inspiration for this particular work. They will be told to expound on these points in advance.
At the end of the event, we'll introduce a group activity which could take place as writers interpreting each others' work (we all know how everyone interprets a work in different and varying ways, often insightful and helpful to the author in question), or dissecting an all time favorite (poem, short story, book, etc). These are just some examples. We will also present them with a sign up form, for the next event, to gauge who will be participating the next time around. Of course we'll give out the dates and venues of the next reading.
Another thing we're aiming at is to have the reading at a different venue each time (book store, cafes, any outdoor location, etc) and depending on how successful we are, bring in a few local (literary) celebrities now and again.
So what do you think? Do you agree or disagree with the plan we've chalked out?
The Official DWL Blog: an encyclopedia of random thought
Showing posts with label updates. Show all posts
Showing posts with label updates. Show all posts
Tuesday, March 4, 2008
Sunday, March 2, 2008
The Green Light
The three core members of the 'Lounge based in Islamabad, met yesterday to talk about the reading and approximately three hours later, we had a full-fledged plan chalked out for the reading series and the first in that series, in particular.
We also covered the e-zine selection policies that were placed into effect with this issue and will be further refined for Vol 4. In the future, we will be allocating 2-3 months for the publication of each issue (beginning on the day the polls end), which will in all likelihood result in about 2 issues being published each year. The decision for the process now reads thus: once the polls close and the pieces have been selected by the core membership, a deadline date will be set by which all editors must have their pieces edited and finalized respectively, by each editor, feeling that they are all up to the par. After that, all pieces will then come to me, where the next 2-3 weeks after the deadline date will be devoted to going through them all . If I feel some pieces need to be further worked on, I will contact the respective editor asking for these changes. The editor will then see about those changes. This will thereby eliminate the need to eradicate any pieces that have been edited. I do however, stand by all decisions I've made for Vol 3.
That said, I also feel some writers have suffered because of the lack of a 100% effort put in by their editors, and for that I sincerely apologize. With these new rules in place, this will be eradicated in future issues and I thank those who graciously received their rejection letters. It was a ridiculously hard thing for me to do, having been the recipient of one myself. But...it only makes you stronger. And I have no doubt that our members will deliver for the next issue.
There is also another event planned in the future, which will be announced after the reading which itself, is planned for the end of March. We will be calling out to our members based in Islamabad to please email in their poems for the reading, or...if they have nothing new, to choose from their old material they would like to present. The emails will be going out presently.
For the event hinted at above, we will be chalking out an extensive marketing campaign.
Again, we urge our members in Islamabad to let their friends know about the reading...the only way we can get the message out there is through word of mouth, which is about the biggest weapon we have. After this, we'll be opening up our readership to everyone else out there. Call the first reading a test run. And, to answer another question, we will be bringing in celebrated writers and poets as our readings progress. The reason why we aren't introducing any in the first reading, is because of organization. We need to be thoroughly organized and professional, and once we've done it a few times and have a thorough feel for the whole thing, we will better be able to handle it when the celebrities waltz in.
So, everything has been discussed and once a date's been decided, I'll post it here emailing our membership to let their friends and/or family and other relatives out there interested in readings (not restricted only to poetry), to rope 'em in. At the end of each reading, we'll have a sign up form to let people sign up for the next reading, giving us their names and email addresses (or other contact information).
As you can see, we've covered all our bases. If you've got any questions relating to the reading, ask away.
We also covered the e-zine selection policies that were placed into effect with this issue and will be further refined for Vol 4. In the future, we will be allocating 2-3 months for the publication of each issue (beginning on the day the polls end), which will in all likelihood result in about 2 issues being published each year. The decision for the process now reads thus: once the polls close and the pieces have been selected by the core membership, a deadline date will be set by which all editors must have their pieces edited and finalized respectively, by each editor, feeling that they are all up to the par. After that, all pieces will then come to me, where the next 2-3 weeks after the deadline date will be devoted to going through them all . If I feel some pieces need to be further worked on, I will contact the respective editor asking for these changes. The editor will then see about those changes. This will thereby eliminate the need to eradicate any pieces that have been edited. I do however, stand by all decisions I've made for Vol 3.
That said, I also feel some writers have suffered because of the lack of a 100% effort put in by their editors, and for that I sincerely apologize. With these new rules in place, this will be eradicated in future issues and I thank those who graciously received their rejection letters. It was a ridiculously hard thing for me to do, having been the recipient of one myself. But...it only makes you stronger. And I have no doubt that our members will deliver for the next issue.
There is also another event planned in the future, which will be announced after the reading which itself, is planned for the end of March. We will be calling out to our members based in Islamabad to please email in their poems for the reading, or...if they have nothing new, to choose from their old material they would like to present. The emails will be going out presently.
For the event hinted at above, we will be chalking out an extensive marketing campaign.
Again, we urge our members in Islamabad to let their friends know about the reading...the only way we can get the message out there is through word of mouth, which is about the biggest weapon we have. After this, we'll be opening up our readership to everyone else out there. Call the first reading a test run. And, to answer another question, we will be bringing in celebrated writers and poets as our readings progress. The reason why we aren't introducing any in the first reading, is because of organization. We need to be thoroughly organized and professional, and once we've done it a few times and have a thorough feel for the whole thing, we will better be able to handle it when the celebrities waltz in.
So, everything has been discussed and once a date's been decided, I'll post it here emailing our membership to let their friends and/or family and other relatives out there interested in readings (not restricted only to poetry), to rope 'em in. At the end of each reading, we'll have a sign up form to let people sign up for the next reading, giving us their names and email addresses (or other contact information).
As you can see, we've covered all our bases. If you've got any questions relating to the reading, ask away.
Thursday, February 28, 2008
Reading, Reading...Wherefore Art Thou Reading?
Now that the e-zine has (finally) been published, things are moving towards holding the reading. You may have thought that with all the recent activities that it wasn't going to happen....WRONG! When I said we were planning a reading, we were definitely planning a reading. Because everything has been stretched, pulled and pummeled into place, things have been taking a little longer than originally planned.
Since we haven't made anything official however, I am forbidden to tell you. Once we've chalked down a full plan, I'll put it here for your viewing pleasure. Until then, just wanted to give you all a heads up that the reading will take place, and it will be one among a series of readings...which may or may not stretch into Lahore & Karachi judging by the success of the ones we host in Islamabad.
The only sure way to be successful is to spread the word...to your friends and friends of friends. For now, only people we know and who know others will be allowed. Like an invite only thing...again, judging by the reception of the first one, we'll broaden attendance for the next. We will also be holding an open floor allowing budding poets from the audience to come up and read out their stuff.
And that's about all the details I can give you. More as and when they come to me. Meanwhile, check out the 'zine...it's live, published and hopefully better than before. What do you think? Weigh in below.
Since we haven't made anything official however, I am forbidden to tell you. Once we've chalked down a full plan, I'll put it here for your viewing pleasure. Until then, just wanted to give you all a heads up that the reading will take place, and it will be one among a series of readings...which may or may not stretch into Lahore & Karachi judging by the success of the ones we host in Islamabad.
The only sure way to be successful is to spread the word...to your friends and friends of friends. For now, only people we know and who know others will be allowed. Like an invite only thing...again, judging by the reception of the first one, we'll broaden attendance for the next. We will also be holding an open floor allowing budding poets from the audience to come up and read out their stuff.
And that's about all the details I can give you. More as and when they come to me. Meanwhile, check out the 'zine...it's live, published and hopefully better than before. What do you think? Weigh in below.
Monday, February 25, 2008
The Best Laid Plans
I know I promised a server switch over the weekend in the forums, but I've been a little lazy. Also, I've been mulling over other potential would-be hosts and have decided to go with the original I had in mind. In any case, we will be moving away from our current one, soon. Just need to sit down one of these days, and make a copy of everything which is the one thing I'm really not looking forward to at all. At all, at all.
Also putting our website and forums out of business for a while is another thing I'm not looking forward to, especially when they're particularly alive and kicking right about now. So, things to consider. Meanwhile, of course, the e-zine just keeps being delayed and delayed doesn't it? Despite the best laid plans and the best of intentions, things don't always work out like they're supposed to.
However, that said, our host does seem to have recovered itself somewhat from its downturn episodes, and I might be able to whip up something soon. Incidentally, everything has been done, they're just a few things to be tweaked and then we'll be all ready.
Oooh...just realized March approaches, and the issue has to be up before March. There is one piece that might be slashed further. As the count currently stands, we've got 10 pieces that have made the cut, out of which only 1 has survived in its category. Won't give away too much, mustn't spoil the surprise after all. Removing another would bring the count to 9, which is by far, the least number of pieces that have ever been featured in our e-zine but, and this goes without saying, this is by far the best issue we've released. Primarily because there have been some checks in terms of quality control.
Unfortunately, because this issue also represented a deviation from the norm, I'm afraid it hasn't made me any friends! :) It's tough being editor-"in-chief" of this place. I have to say I like being just the writer a whole lot better. That said, I don't think anyone else could possibly realize the vision for this place better. Oh well!
One last decision to make and then it's home free...fingers crossed that our efforts will be appreciated--writers, editors, readers and critics--couldn't have done it without 'em!
Also putting our website and forums out of business for a while is another thing I'm not looking forward to, especially when they're particularly alive and kicking right about now. So, things to consider. Meanwhile, of course, the e-zine just keeps being delayed and delayed doesn't it? Despite the best laid plans and the best of intentions, things don't always work out like they're supposed to.
However, that said, our host does seem to have recovered itself somewhat from its downturn episodes, and I might be able to whip up something soon. Incidentally, everything has been done, they're just a few things to be tweaked and then we'll be all ready.
Oooh...just realized March approaches, and the issue has to be up before March. There is one piece that might be slashed further. As the count currently stands, we've got 10 pieces that have made the cut, out of which only 1 has survived in its category. Won't give away too much, mustn't spoil the surprise after all. Removing another would bring the count to 9, which is by far, the least number of pieces that have ever been featured in our e-zine but, and this goes without saying, this is by far the best issue we've released. Primarily because there have been some checks in terms of quality control.
Unfortunately, because this issue also represented a deviation from the norm, I'm afraid it hasn't made me any friends! :) It's tough being editor-"in-chief" of this place. I have to say I like being just the writer a whole lot better. That said, I don't think anyone else could possibly realize the vision for this place better. Oh well!
One last decision to make and then it's home free...fingers crossed that our efforts will be appreciated--writers, editors, readers and critics--couldn't have done it without 'em!
Friday, February 15, 2008
Of Strikes & Other News
Now that the writers strike is finally over, we can all collectively breathe a sigh of relief. More importantly, as reported by UH.com (linked on the left), it occurred on the writers own terms. A literary triumph over the power suits; there is something to be said of the power of the written word.
In other news, I've re-usurped my editorial duties and as such, am fully on target to meet my February Vol 3 publication date. Still finalizing a few pieces however, I'm on the line about one and as such, may have two further rejection letters to send out. I've been holding off on the publication for this reason. Should have a final decision about the matter by later tonight. What follows is hopefully a productive weekend for the website.
Elaborate marketing is being held off for a little while, until the thing I mentioned a few posts back, the thing we are all intensely excited about, has been elaborately planned and once we've got that little reading out of the way. What would you think of carrying bookmarks home at the end of the reading, as a souvenir of sorts? For one thing, you can actually use them as bookmarks...genius! For another, you'll remember the evening...or well, hopefully! :)
So this weekend will, in all likelihood, see the publication of Volume 3 and hopefully this issue will set the precedent for all the issues to follow. Lots of luck wishing and backslapping is in order. Till my next post then!
In other news, I've re-usurped my editorial duties and as such, am fully on target to meet my February Vol 3 publication date. Still finalizing a few pieces however, I'm on the line about one and as such, may have two further rejection letters to send out. I've been holding off on the publication for this reason. Should have a final decision about the matter by later tonight. What follows is hopefully a productive weekend for the website.
Elaborate marketing is being held off for a little while, until the thing I mentioned a few posts back, the thing we are all intensely excited about, has been elaborately planned and once we've got that little reading out of the way. What would you think of carrying bookmarks home at the end of the reading, as a souvenir of sorts? For one thing, you can actually use them as bookmarks...genius! For another, you'll remember the evening...or well, hopefully! :)
So this weekend will, in all likelihood, see the publication of Volume 3 and hopefully this issue will set the precedent for all the issues to follow. Lots of luck wishing and backslapping is in order. Till my next post then!
Monday, February 11, 2008
The Question...
'ello peeps. Yes, I realize that that's a little uncustomary of me and what follows will continue in that vein. So to cut a long story short, I'm pasting the exact same thing I said on the forums for our non-member viewing pleasure.
"Hello everyone,
I realize the publication date has been pushed forward repeatedly. Just wanted everyone to know that I've been extremely busy lately, haven't had time for anything including *gasp* all things Lounge related. I only recently penned a story, which I am ecstatic about...and that was on the only weekend I've been lucky enough to get off.
Along with that, the Internet on my end has been spotty though everything's been resolved now. Glory be! I guess the only thing left to do now is to actually put up them pieces. Please note: not everyone who was contacted and worked with an editor, has made the cut. In fact, several pieces have been slashed (how very horror fest of me) to showcase the ones, in this humble editor's opinion (I played no part in actually working with any of the writers. I'm just the evil one who goes down and sucks the life out of people...it's late and I'm writing this in bed, reminding myself I need to be up early, so forgive the dramatics) that spoke for themselves.
This weekend was supposed to be The Weekend where I could put everything up, and my thanks go especially to Clarice who has worked with me on this. She's really done more than I could ask from her.
Anyway, this weekend was also my only weekend off and I am not ashamed to say that I put my own writing and leisurely activities before this. However, in my defense, the site wasn't working for me today. It's working now, and I'm assuming that whatever fiber optic cable was damaged, has since been repaired. Otherwise, I'm doomed obviously.
So to sum it up, I know things haven't gone according to plan but I do remember the e-zine and it will be released this month. Who knows? Maybe I might coordinate it with my birthday? Or better yet, hold out for a day, and give you all a Valentine's Day gift. :)
"Hello everyone,
I realize the publication date has been pushed forward repeatedly. Just wanted everyone to know that I've been extremely busy lately, haven't had time for anything including *gasp* all things Lounge related. I only recently penned a story, which I am ecstatic about...and that was on the only weekend I've been lucky enough to get off.
Along with that, the Internet on my end has been spotty though everything's been resolved now. Glory be! I guess the only thing left to do now is to actually put up them pieces. Please note: not everyone who was contacted and worked with an editor, has made the cut. In fact, several pieces have been slashed (how very horror fest of me) to showcase the ones, in this humble editor's opinion (I played no part in actually working with any of the writers. I'm just the evil one who goes down and sucks the life out of people...it's late and I'm writing this in bed, reminding myself I need to be up early, so forgive the dramatics) that spoke for themselves.
This weekend was supposed to be The Weekend where I could put everything up, and my thanks go especially to Clarice who has worked with me on this. She's really done more than I could ask from her.
Anyway, this weekend was also my only weekend off and I am not ashamed to say that I put my own writing and leisurely activities before this. However, in my defense, the site wasn't working for me today. It's working now, and I'm assuming that whatever fiber optic cable was damaged, has since been repaired. Otherwise, I'm doomed obviously.
So to sum it up, I know things haven't gone according to plan but I do remember the e-zine and it will be released this month. Who knows? Maybe I might coordinate it with my birthday? Or better yet, hold out for a day, and give you all a Valentine's Day gift. :)
Saturday, February 2, 2008
The Icky Stuff
In case some of you don't know about the recent fiber optic cable cut beneath Egypt and Italy, allow me to introduce you to the facts: no internet. Or at the very least, spotty internet. What does this mean? It means the publication date's been shoved forward. Just because I can't do it, however, doesn't mean the work won't still be done...I'll be pulling the strings while the GM (global moderator) will be doing all the hard labor. Tough job, but someone has to do it.
Naturally, because an ocean separates us coordinating times and bypassing risky schedules has put a damper on things. That being said, however, we are working around this.
The reading is still planned, any ideas any of you might have you can drop into the comments of the blog or email me personally at maryam@desiwriterslounge.net. We do appreciate the feedback you know, and contrary to legend, we don't bite.
Promise.
Naturally, because an ocean separates us coordinating times and bypassing risky schedules has put a damper on things. That being said, however, we are working around this.
The reading is still planned, any ideas any of you might have you can drop into the comments of the blog or email me personally at maryam@desiwriterslounge.net. We do appreciate the feedback you know, and contrary to legend, we don't bite.
Promise.
Saturday, January 19, 2008
It begins
So, if you've been to the website or forums recently you may have noticed something in the way of a facelift. Yes, it's finally happened. The new design has been fully incorporated. You may also have noted the new design of the blog in one of the fading images, but for some reason it can't be seen here...there's a reason for that. Let's just say, it looked better as a screen shot. But I'm trying to see if I can capture the same gist of color here with this format, so let's see how this works out.
Our e-zine publication date may see a slight flutter from its original conception, with the deadline being pushed back from Jan 18 to Jan 25. The reasons for this are the resolving of some personal issues of one of our editors. Publication will be one week after the administrator (yours truly) has received all pieces, to take that time to go through each in full and see if I can't spot a few last minute fixes. So we might be seeing it going live around Feb 1, which if seen in a certain light, might actually work for us being the start of a month instead of the end or middle of it. All's well that ends well, right?
Moving on, the next stage of our plan kicks forward after all pieces have been edited or at least after some of the editors have been relived of their editing duties. We do indeed plan on going ahead with the posters, fliers and bookmarks that will advertise our website. The reading as such, won't be advertised since, at least for the first one, we're limiting it to members and those invited by members. There still do remain certain issues to iron out, however, but it's very much a part of our agenda.
We do have something else up our sleeves as well, something we're not going to put up yet but will in all likelihood announce during or after the reading...so all the more reason to attend if you're in Islamabad sometime in March or April.
In addition to the small announcement put up on the main site, we'd like to remind anyone who's interested to help out with the marketing aspect of the site, to let us know. We will be distributing posters, fliers and bookmarks to be distributed in bookstores and possibly some "intellectual" cafes, though whether such places exclusively exist...may be debatable. But that's us! The incurable optimists! For anyone who's interested, you can email in at comments@desiwriterslounge.net.
Now my friends, is when it really begins...
Our e-zine publication date may see a slight flutter from its original conception, with the deadline being pushed back from Jan 18 to Jan 25. The reasons for this are the resolving of some personal issues of one of our editors. Publication will be one week after the administrator (yours truly) has received all pieces, to take that time to go through each in full and see if I can't spot a few last minute fixes. So we might be seeing it going live around Feb 1, which if seen in a certain light, might actually work for us being the start of a month instead of the end or middle of it. All's well that ends well, right?
Moving on, the next stage of our plan kicks forward after all pieces have been edited or at least after some of the editors have been relived of their editing duties. We do indeed plan on going ahead with the posters, fliers and bookmarks that will advertise our website. The reading as such, won't be advertised since, at least for the first one, we're limiting it to members and those invited by members. There still do remain certain issues to iron out, however, but it's very much a part of our agenda.
We do have something else up our sleeves as well, something we're not going to put up yet but will in all likelihood announce during or after the reading...so all the more reason to attend if you're in Islamabad sometime in March or April.
In addition to the small announcement put up on the main site, we'd like to remind anyone who's interested to help out with the marketing aspect of the site, to let us know. We will be distributing posters, fliers and bookmarks to be distributed in bookstores and possibly some "intellectual" cafes, though whether such places exclusively exist...may be debatable. But that's us! The incurable optimists! For anyone who's interested, you can email in at comments@desiwriterslounge.net.
Now my friends, is when it really begins...
Sunday, January 13, 2008
Be heard. Be inspired. Or...not so much?
Apologize for the lack of updates...realize it's been seven days since my last progress report. :)
So then, what's going on in the world of the 'Lounge, you ask? Well, despite thinking that my designing days were over, I have managed to complete a new forum template with our new logo which will see its debut on this blog at the same time it goes on everywhere else. So the forum's done, thankfully which now just leaves the bulk of the main website's design which is significant...but it does progress. I am hopeful to have at least the color scheme related side of things, complete by tonight. I've started writing again, so unfortunately this also figures into the 'weekend planning' side of things.
My presence at the forums has been extremely limited to just signing in occasionally, with a precursor 'all's well' and conveniently disappearing again.
Our editors are hard at work, working with their respective assignees to give you the best e-zine yet. Fingers crossed. The January 18 deadline will in all likelihood, be honored and the week following it will be my domain of going through every piece submitted, reading all the niggly bits and deciding on the end product. Meanwhile, I uphold my end of the deal by administering the site, designing the forums, designing a new template for the main site, receiving progress reports from my editors, and all along hoping that I can somehow bridge it all and have a deliverable by my own personal deadline.
Meanwhile, keeps the forums alive and well. There seems to be a strange tendency of things coming alive when the e-zine submission date comes around. The whole point of the forums is to be heard, to learn from others, be inspired by what you see, and take it from there. How can one expect to improve if you don't let others rip into your creative process of thought before you even think of putting something solely for e-zine consideration. The polls will no longer, at least not in the foreseeable future, have as much of an impact on selection as before. So be involved, be prepared for a sense of community, help others improve, let us help you. It's all about writing, working together to improve.
Or at least, that's always been my perception of what the Desi Writers Lounge is. But I guess, perceptions change...or do they?
So then, what's going on in the world of the 'Lounge, you ask? Well, despite thinking that my designing days were over, I have managed to complete a new forum template with our new logo which will see its debut on this blog at the same time it goes on everywhere else. So the forum's done, thankfully which now just leaves the bulk of the main website's design which is significant...but it does progress. I am hopeful to have at least the color scheme related side of things, complete by tonight. I've started writing again, so unfortunately this also figures into the 'weekend planning' side of things.
My presence at the forums has been extremely limited to just signing in occasionally, with a precursor 'all's well' and conveniently disappearing again.
Our editors are hard at work, working with their respective assignees to give you the best e-zine yet. Fingers crossed. The January 18 deadline will in all likelihood, be honored and the week following it will be my domain of going through every piece submitted, reading all the niggly bits and deciding on the end product. Meanwhile, I uphold my end of the deal by administering the site, designing the forums, designing a new template for the main site, receiving progress reports from my editors, and all along hoping that I can somehow bridge it all and have a deliverable by my own personal deadline.
Meanwhile, keeps the forums alive and well. There seems to be a strange tendency of things coming alive when the e-zine submission date comes around. The whole point of the forums is to be heard, to learn from others, be inspired by what you see, and take it from there. How can one expect to improve if you don't let others rip into your creative process of thought before you even think of putting something solely for e-zine consideration. The polls will no longer, at least not in the foreseeable future, have as much of an impact on selection as before. So be involved, be prepared for a sense of community, help others improve, let us help you. It's all about writing, working together to improve.
Or at least, that's always been my perception of what the Desi Writers Lounge is. But I guess, perceptions change...or do they?
Sunday, January 6, 2008
Lanterns All Over The Place
I'll admit: I was a little worried that the new design and the fact that it may or may not materialize. However, after extensive work on it on both Saturday & Sunday, both new designs are coming along quite well. The forums are done, but of course, have not been uploaded yet. So you'll just have to wait for both to occur together before you see the new logo and design.
Editors are hard at work with their assignees and the publication date of Jan. 18th seems a likely and largely welcome one.
The quicker and better looking our website becomes, the larger chance we have of retaining our audience as well as keeping our existing members happy. Layout still remains a concern, and there will be a lot of testing in the two weeks ahead. Two weeks. What a ridiculously short period of time! However, I am also confident enough in my own abilities...another weekend is all I'll need. But you won't see anything tangible until the e-zine hits our virtual shelves. Sorry! All updates must occur together...a little thing I like to call homogeneity.
Then of course, there's bringing the audience to our website...which is where the marketing (posters, fliers, bookmarks) comes in. Still have to locate a suitable designer for the work, and the budget is naturally not fixed although given the logo considerations, I think it'll need to be substantially high to cover both design and printing costs.
Once these things are out of the way, I can turn my attentions to planning the reading. We have yet to set a workable date, but I suppose it all depends on coordination and a ton of hardcore planning.
And that's a wrap for tonight. You'll forgive me for not writing more, primarily because a) there isn't much else happening :) and b) my shoulders are killing me!
G'night!
Editors are hard at work with their assignees and the publication date of Jan. 18th seems a likely and largely welcome one.
The quicker and better looking our website becomes, the larger chance we have of retaining our audience as well as keeping our existing members happy. Layout still remains a concern, and there will be a lot of testing in the two weeks ahead. Two weeks. What a ridiculously short period of time! However, I am also confident enough in my own abilities...another weekend is all I'll need. But you won't see anything tangible until the e-zine hits our virtual shelves. Sorry! All updates must occur together...a little thing I like to call homogeneity.
Then of course, there's bringing the audience to our website...which is where the marketing (posters, fliers, bookmarks) comes in. Still have to locate a suitable designer for the work, and the budget is naturally not fixed although given the logo considerations, I think it'll need to be substantially high to cover both design and printing costs.
Once these things are out of the way, I can turn my attentions to planning the reading. We have yet to set a workable date, but I suppose it all depends on coordination and a ton of hardcore planning.
And that's a wrap for tonight. You'll forgive me for not writing more, primarily because a) there isn't much else happening :) and b) my shoulders are killing me!
G'night!
Sunday, December 30, 2007
Going forth into the Tunnels of Darkness
I must thank Clarice, below, for writing in my absence. Though the internet did fail us for a little less than 24 hours, it has returned in full force. So things, are in that sphere at least, well.
There have been no changes in the e-zine publication plans--we will be moving forward with publishing it sometime at the end of January--the interim month will be, as per our now established Editorial Policy, devoted to editing pieces. The reason that it has already been pushed back several times, is because of the search for quality and the understanding that it needn't be rushed.
The editors will shortly notify the finalized set of writers under their respective categories, although The Poets will be notified a little later. Reasons for this diversion needn't be discussed, here. Suffice to say, there's a reason for everything we do.
One thing must be noted absolutely, however: protocol must be followed. Currently, the deadline for which all editors must have their respective finalized pieces is January 18th, 2008. Anyone who doesn't follow this to the dot, will have their piece(s) struck from the final published list. I need to make this absolutely clear now. We're all on a schedule here, and allowances for everyone have been made with the rather accommodating date. So to all the finalists out there: ensure that you've got an approved and complete piece by then. There are some pieces that require severe, heavy edits before they have a chance to make it in. To these writers, especially, you must follow the guidance of your assigned editor until he/she is satisfied. I will, however, make the last judgment call if there is one to be made.
I am well aware that I am no professional writer, but as Editor and Administrator, someone has to do it. I apologize in advance.
The E-Zine's publication date has been set for sometime in the last week of January.
A new design inclusive of new logo might be instituted some time before then, or it may make its debut with the new volume. That remains to be seen based on my own time and planning. Suffice to say, it is in the works.
I can only hope Vol 3 is a roaring success, and jump starts our reputation outside of the web as a literary magazine to be reckoned with, hopefully cemented with the reading planned for March. The posters, fliers, bookmarks etc will be promoting the website more than the reading itself, although we'll probably have a separate batch for that as well, distribution limited naturally, to Islamabad only.
The material for marketing the website, however, will be distributed as noted earlier, in the three main cities where our members reside: Islamabad, Lahore, Karachi as well as a special package mailed to our international member in Washington D.C.
This is all in the pipelines, which I'm hoping doesn't mean it never materializes! :)
Wish us luck, everyone!
There have been no changes in the e-zine publication plans--we will be moving forward with publishing it sometime at the end of January--the interim month will be, as per our now established Editorial Policy, devoted to editing pieces. The reason that it has already been pushed back several times, is because of the search for quality and the understanding that it needn't be rushed.
The editors will shortly notify the finalized set of writers under their respective categories, although The Poets will be notified a little later. Reasons for this diversion needn't be discussed, here. Suffice to say, there's a reason for everything we do.
One thing must be noted absolutely, however: protocol must be followed. Currently, the deadline for which all editors must have their respective finalized pieces is January 18th, 2008. Anyone who doesn't follow this to the dot, will have their piece(s) struck from the final published list. I need to make this absolutely clear now. We're all on a schedule here, and allowances for everyone have been made with the rather accommodating date. So to all the finalists out there: ensure that you've got an approved and complete piece by then. There are some pieces that require severe, heavy edits before they have a chance to make it in. To these writers, especially, you must follow the guidance of your assigned editor until he/she is satisfied. I will, however, make the last judgment call if there is one to be made.
I am well aware that I am no professional writer, but as Editor and Administrator, someone has to do it. I apologize in advance.
The E-Zine's publication date has been set for sometime in the last week of January.
A new design inclusive of new logo might be instituted some time before then, or it may make its debut with the new volume. That remains to be seen based on my own time and planning. Suffice to say, it is in the works.
I can only hope Vol 3 is a roaring success, and jump starts our reputation outside of the web as a literary magazine to be reckoned with, hopefully cemented with the reading planned for March. The posters, fliers, bookmarks etc will be promoting the website more than the reading itself, although we'll probably have a separate batch for that as well, distribution limited naturally, to Islamabad only.
The material for marketing the website, however, will be distributed as noted earlier, in the three main cities where our members reside: Islamabad, Lahore, Karachi as well as a special package mailed to our international member in Washington D.C.
This is all in the pipelines, which I'm hoping doesn't mean it never materializes! :)
Wish us luck, everyone!
Sunday, December 23, 2007
The Jury's In: Hold On to Your Seats!
After a near three hour discussion over finalizing all e-zine related pieces, earlier tonight, out of an overwhelming 60+ pieces polled, the list has been narrowed down to all of 20. It is, conceded, a little more than I would have liked, but these are all, or mostly all, solid pieces.
Lists will be put up tomorrow evening, with the appropriate writers being contacted and directed according to protocol. Because of my own unavailability for editorial duties, work will be redivided with the four sub-editors. I will, as always, comb through each piece before sending it in to the e-zine.
Protocol must be noted, and followed: we, the editors will be working with selected writers according to a predetermined deadline. No piece will be allowed final entry until and unless the assigned editor has approved. If, supposing, the writer of a specific piece doesn't respond to his/her editor, the piece will be struck from the list. So if you've been selected, and are among those contacted tomorrow evening, you are expected to follow through with protocol. The rules will not be broken, or bent for anyone. After all, if we do it for one person, we have to do it for everyone.
There are a wealth of things planned for the upcoming quarters, including a new issue as well as the reading. If there are things you feel should be added to the site, or any suggestions you have for the reading, please do drop a line either in the comments, or to me personally. I have a knack for writing back, irrespective of anything.
And now, my minions, I bid thee farewell. It's been a long night, and I should be in bed, snug as a bug in a rug, by midnight.
Adios, and keep your eyes peeled on the forums if you're a member, and on the e-zine scheduled for release in late Jan, if you're just a reader. We welcome you in either capacity!
Lists will be put up tomorrow evening, with the appropriate writers being contacted and directed according to protocol. Because of my own unavailability for editorial duties, work will be redivided with the four sub-editors. I will, as always, comb through each piece before sending it in to the e-zine.
Protocol must be noted, and followed: we, the editors will be working with selected writers according to a predetermined deadline. No piece will be allowed final entry until and unless the assigned editor has approved. If, supposing, the writer of a specific piece doesn't respond to his/her editor, the piece will be struck from the list. So if you've been selected, and are among those contacted tomorrow evening, you are expected to follow through with protocol. The rules will not be broken, or bent for anyone. After all, if we do it for one person, we have to do it for everyone.
There are a wealth of things planned for the upcoming quarters, including a new issue as well as the reading. If there are things you feel should be added to the site, or any suggestions you have for the reading, please do drop a line either in the comments, or to me personally. I have a knack for writing back, irrespective of anything.
And now, my minions, I bid thee farewell. It's been a long night, and I should be in bed, snug as a bug in a rug, by midnight.
Adios, and keep your eyes peeled on the forums if you're a member, and on the e-zine scheduled for release in late Jan, if you're just a reader. We welcome you in either capacity!
Friday, December 14, 2007
It's a Mad, Mad, Mad, Mad, Fracked Up World
I feel like we've been treading and retreading the same waters over and over again, over the past few months. Design? Re-design. Person located, finally. Didn't work out. Should we or shouldn't we? We should. Just when we go in again, madness ensues. Things just weren't meant to be, I guess. This also means I'll have to work on the templates on my own, but I am a little more confident in myself with my newfound and rediscovered knowledge. I'll be fine, but might not have the time to usurp my editing duties. We'll see, however.
Reference to the Writer's Strike made by Clarice, things are looking slightly up for the writers with the DGA (Directors' Guild) refusing to renegotiate their own contract until the AMPTP settles things with the writers. The AMPTP, if you believe in the rumors floating around, wanted the DGA to start their own negotiations thereby putting the pressure on the WGA. Nice to see the concept of unity in the creative community, still exists.
It's a mad, mad, mad, mad, mad world out there. They got that part right.
So, though a new design and logo is on the way, there's probably still some time until we get there. I've got some very talented graphic designing companies on the line for the logo work, so there's that lovely thing to consider. What look are we going for? Classic funky. You do the math. Something that screams: the Lounge. Should we go with the 'Eternal Sunshine of the Spotless Mind' idea, or should we break it down into something else? Do you have any ideas? The Administration speaketh. Go forth into those creative tunnels, don't turn out the bulb of genius and venture out never, until you've got something up your sleeve.
Sparks!
Reference to the Writer's Strike made by Clarice, things are looking slightly up for the writers with the DGA (Directors' Guild) refusing to renegotiate their own contract until the AMPTP settles things with the writers. The AMPTP, if you believe in the rumors floating around, wanted the DGA to start their own negotiations thereby putting the pressure on the WGA. Nice to see the concept of unity in the creative community, still exists.
It's a mad, mad, mad, mad, mad world out there. They got that part right.
So, though a new design and logo is on the way, there's probably still some time until we get there. I've got some very talented graphic designing companies on the line for the logo work, so there's that lovely thing to consider. What look are we going for? Classic funky. You do the math. Something that screams: the Lounge. Should we go with the 'Eternal Sunshine of the Spotless Mind' idea, or should we break it down into something else? Do you have any ideas? The Administration speaketh. Go forth into those creative tunnels, don't turn out the bulb of genius and venture out never, until you've got something up your sleeve.
Sparks!
Friday, December 7, 2007
The Importance of Being Right...On The Money
The new forums are up, the switch being made from the rigidity that was phpBB 2 to the more fluid and interactive SMF forums. For now, I've kept the same color scheme as our old version, although this will change when we've finalized a color scheme and layout for our main website.
Heads up: there's a new writer's workshop being arranged by British Council in Dhaka, for writers between the ages of 25 and 35. Sadly, I don't qualify but I'll be damned if I don't try. There's no harm, is there? As it is, details available here including the attachments and documents required before submitting a writing sample. So if you're interested in attending a workshop, please do take a look.
Because of a slight mix up regarding polling dates on the forums, we've lost about a week of potential voting. However, we're urging our members to vote now and to keep it up till Monday night, when all polls are scheduled to expire. December 11, 12.01 am is when they "officially" expire.
There's also been a shift in policy, where we now require a minimum of 4 votes (those with a single vote to their name will be independently voted on by the mods, because obviously we didn't vote the first time around! I repeat: vote to keep these pieces in the running) to make it into Phase 2 of the selection process. Phase 1 remains the voting stage, and is instrumental to our process, but we introduced Phase 2 because of an apparent lag in quality which the votes, although extremely helpful in their own right, don't always get it right because not everyone's voting. As a result, the five moderators will step in and finalize all pieces. We're also not going to be taking in as many pieces as before, with each column having a limit in terms of how many will go in. For this, we are profoundly sorry, and it'll make selection extremely difficult but someone has to do it.
We're looking at the possibilities of marketing our website in national newspapers, radio, bookstores, etc well before our scheduled reading in March. To this extent, we require excellent pieces and this isn't saying that what we have now aren't excellent. We just mean, with less pieces, we have more time to spend and communicate with writers on those pieces and can, as a result, help in making it the best it can be.
Once the design and more importantly, logo of our website is finalized, we will begin printing out fliers, posters and bookmarks to be distributed in bookstores as a way of getting the audience we want and are looking for. These will be sent out to all major cities where our members reside: Islamabad, Lahore and Karachi with a special care package sent to our international members so they can help spread the word wherever they are. This is marketing on a vast scale, especially considering that it's been practically nonexistent until now. Taking this in context, you might now understand the importance of both a redesign and new look both in terms of design as well as content. To this extent, we hope that both as members and readers of our work, you'll appreciate all changes that will go into effect in the new year.
As always, anything you'd like to add, please voice them in the comments or send me an email on either the address available here or at comments@desiwriterslounge.net.
Heads up: there's a new writer's workshop being arranged by British Council in Dhaka, for writers between the ages of 25 and 35. Sadly, I don't qualify but I'll be damned if I don't try. There's no harm, is there? As it is, details available here including the attachments and documents required before submitting a writing sample. So if you're interested in attending a workshop, please do take a look.
Because of a slight mix up regarding polling dates on the forums, we've lost about a week of potential voting. However, we're urging our members to vote now and to keep it up till Monday night, when all polls are scheduled to expire. December 11, 12.01 am is when they "officially" expire.
There's also been a shift in policy, where we now require a minimum of 4 votes (those with a single vote to their name will be independently voted on by the mods, because obviously we didn't vote the first time around! I repeat: vote to keep these pieces in the running) to make it into Phase 2 of the selection process. Phase 1 remains the voting stage, and is instrumental to our process, but we introduced Phase 2 because of an apparent lag in quality which the votes, although extremely helpful in their own right, don't always get it right because not everyone's voting. As a result, the five moderators will step in and finalize all pieces. We're also not going to be taking in as many pieces as before, with each column having a limit in terms of how many will go in. For this, we are profoundly sorry, and it'll make selection extremely difficult but someone has to do it.
We're looking at the possibilities of marketing our website in national newspapers, radio, bookstores, etc well before our scheduled reading in March. To this extent, we require excellent pieces and this isn't saying that what we have now aren't excellent. We just mean, with less pieces, we have more time to spend and communicate with writers on those pieces and can, as a result, help in making it the best it can be.
Once the design and more importantly, logo of our website is finalized, we will begin printing out fliers, posters and bookmarks to be distributed in bookstores as a way of getting the audience we want and are looking for. These will be sent out to all major cities where our members reside: Islamabad, Lahore and Karachi with a special care package sent to our international members so they can help spread the word wherever they are. This is marketing on a vast scale, especially considering that it's been practically nonexistent until now. Taking this in context, you might now understand the importance of both a redesign and new look both in terms of design as well as content. To this extent, we hope that both as members and readers of our work, you'll appreciate all changes that will go into effect in the new year.
As always, anything you'd like to add, please voice them in the comments or send me an email on either the address available here or at comments@desiwriterslounge.net.
Monday, December 3, 2007
Eye Twitches & Creativity
My eye's been twitching consistently for the past week. What do you think the odds are that it has something to do with website administrative duties? Nah, didn't think so.
There have been updates, however, which is why there's a new post in less than a week. The forums have been shut down, at least till Monday evening for maintenance and upgrading purposes. Come the new week, and we'll have a new forum. Well, to be honest, we already have one but I've had to convert it from phpBB to SMF which for some reason, wasn't as easy as I had thought it would be. However, it has been done and my Sunday has been utilized to great effect. Excellent. All members, posts, topics and threads have made the shift.
We'll also have greater control over the registration process, with these really easy to add modifications. Compared to phpBB, SMF seems like heaven. Literally. Whereas previously the reason for membership and signature fields were one, they have both been miraculously separated with the former being mandatory and coded in from the backend to that effect. If you don't fill it in appropriately, it will result in actual revocation...how frackin' amazing is that?! What I've wanted to implement for a year has been incorporated in a day. Sad, I realize but also incredibly fulfilling.
There's also a nifty newsletters option which takes care of my previous concerns and I have the option to send them in HTML which can include our official header/logo (when we have one) on top. Seriously. I was going to pay for this. I am still a CS person, it seems, or at least with a mildly mechanical bent of mind to say the very least (allow me my butter this one time, please).
There's also a calendar for events, which again, takes up quite a bit of what I wanted incorporated. Eventually, I'll find a way to bridge our forums with the site everyone else sees and has access to.
Also, you can change your display name finally (this was something I had incorporated in my own vision, before switching over to the open source world. Back when I thought coding was fun!) to something other than your username, which is most especially useful if you want your privacy.
You'll also get 'Happy Birthday' messages from the forum provided you want to, and have entered your birthdate.
So there are a ton of new things in this forum board that weren't there earlier, and although I've spent most of the latter half of the day ensuring everything remains as close to possible as it was before, it's going to take time for the users to get used to this new format.
But hopefully not too long. I shall admit to being supremely excited; after a much needed length of time, finally something to talk about.
The new forums will be launched Monday evening, and if you're a member you will be notified accordingly.
I'm hoping for a new design with the New Year, and we'll be well on our way. With changes in the editorial policy planned as well, things are gearing up to a (hopefully) more productive quarter.
There have been updates, however, which is why there's a new post in less than a week. The forums have been shut down, at least till Monday evening for maintenance and upgrading purposes. Come the new week, and we'll have a new forum. Well, to be honest, we already have one but I've had to convert it from phpBB to SMF which for some reason, wasn't as easy as I had thought it would be. However, it has been done and my Sunday has been utilized to great effect. Excellent. All members, posts, topics and threads have made the shift.
We'll also have greater control over the registration process, with these really easy to add modifications. Compared to phpBB, SMF seems like heaven. Literally. Whereas previously the reason for membership and signature fields were one, they have both been miraculously separated with the former being mandatory and coded in from the backend to that effect. If you don't fill it in appropriately, it will result in actual revocation...how frackin' amazing is that?! What I've wanted to implement for a year has been incorporated in a day. Sad, I realize but also incredibly fulfilling.
There's also a nifty newsletters option which takes care of my previous concerns and I have the option to send them in HTML which can include our official header/logo (when we have one) on top. Seriously. I was going to pay for this. I am still a CS person, it seems, or at least with a mildly mechanical bent of mind to say the very least (allow me my butter this one time, please).
There's also a calendar for events, which again, takes up quite a bit of what I wanted incorporated. Eventually, I'll find a way to bridge our forums with the site everyone else sees and has access to.
Also, you can change your display name finally (this was something I had incorporated in my own vision, before switching over to the open source world. Back when I thought coding was fun!) to something other than your username, which is most especially useful if you want your privacy.
You'll also get 'Happy Birthday' messages from the forum provided you want to, and have entered your birthdate.
So there are a ton of new things in this forum board that weren't there earlier, and although I've spent most of the latter half of the day ensuring everything remains as close to possible as it was before, it's going to take time for the users to get used to this new format.
But hopefully not too long. I shall admit to being supremely excited; after a much needed length of time, finally something to talk about.
The new forums will be launched Monday evening, and if you're a member you will be notified accordingly.
I'm hoping for a new design with the New Year, and we'll be well on our way. With changes in the editorial policy planned as well, things are gearing up to a (hopefully) more productive quarter.
Friday, November 30, 2007
10 Things I Hate About This
No, I'm not going to start listing them down, I just really wanted to use that phrase. Ridiculously short story I have no plans on expounding, which makes mentioning it entirely unnecessary. Lovely!
Now that I've located what looks like a promising designer, the only drawback is that they're located here...as in Pakistan here...as in, in my city Pakistan. Yes. After a rather saddening experience with an Indian developer (God bless the Indians, though; they're not all bad, one bad seed notwithstanding! Tons of bad seeds in Pakistan, too!), I would much rather not deal with subcontinental developers. However, their ratings, client references and portfolio seems to speak for itself. And they have now graciously agreed to providing me with a mock up...which is basically a prototype of where they'll take the design of the site, along with showcasing what they can do. Since I was deprived of this previously, and not wanting to take any risks this time around, taking the advice of my very knowledgeable sister, I am a little more optimistic. Of course, the development that I've planned and outlined in this blog is still scheduled. But first and foremost, is a face-lift.
Addressing quality related issues is another thing entirely, and which will hopefully be addressed and put to reasonable rest by our small "board" some time this weekend or next week. I don't know whether it's the editorial policy or the fact that a small set of members are the only set that post and re-post and thus, are the only ones available for e-zine polling. There are some marketing related issues and plans up my sleeve, which might unfold subject to agreement by the others. There are a lot of things to be decided, and specifically towards our new look, logo and design etc.
There is still the dream of making it to print, which might, ironically, be more quality oriented. The problem with being web-based is that though you're able to reach a wider base, it becomes a tad problematic when you're using it for quality assurance. Not everyone's at the same level, which shows through in the forums, where the pieces are..."workshopped" according to one of our members. Although most of the hardcore stuff happens behind the scenes in the 'editorial' stages, which brings me to another question: are we not doing a good job of it? Should we be pushing our writers harder...or what, exactly? I realize that everyone ages at their own pace, and to that extent we should give them both time and space for growth, but this worries me. Because some how, in some way it's setting us back.
A few posts back I mentioned how a complete stranger stated that my work represented on another website was far better than the content put on display in our 'zine, which though flattering to me, was a disappointment. Everything seems the same. Are we not pushing creativity hard enough? Not focusing on pushing the envelope? After all, isn't that part of what a workshop does for you? It pushes you to be your best. One piece or maybe two from members is good, and then they slip again. I need to know why.
I suppose the easiest thing to say is that writing isn't the same for everyone, which is what I am constantly being told time and time again. It's frustrating to hear the same thing from different people: not everyone's like you, not everyone takes writing so seriously. It isn't about taking it so seriously...it's about actually using criticism to improve. It's the want to get better, to progress, to push the envelope. That isn't asking for much, is it?
Now that I've located what looks like a promising designer, the only drawback is that they're located here...as in Pakistan here...as in, in my city Pakistan. Yes. After a rather saddening experience with an Indian developer (God bless the Indians, though; they're not all bad, one bad seed notwithstanding! Tons of bad seeds in Pakistan, too!), I would much rather not deal with subcontinental developers. However, their ratings, client references and portfolio seems to speak for itself. And they have now graciously agreed to providing me with a mock up...which is basically a prototype of where they'll take the design of the site, along with showcasing what they can do. Since I was deprived of this previously, and not wanting to take any risks this time around, taking the advice of my very knowledgeable sister, I am a little more optimistic. Of course, the development that I've planned and outlined in this blog is still scheduled. But first and foremost, is a face-lift.
Addressing quality related issues is another thing entirely, and which will hopefully be addressed and put to reasonable rest by our small "board" some time this weekend or next week. I don't know whether it's the editorial policy or the fact that a small set of members are the only set that post and re-post and thus, are the only ones available for e-zine polling. There are some marketing related issues and plans up my sleeve, which might unfold subject to agreement by the others. There are a lot of things to be decided, and specifically towards our new look, logo and design etc.
There is still the dream of making it to print, which might, ironically, be more quality oriented. The problem with being web-based is that though you're able to reach a wider base, it becomes a tad problematic when you're using it for quality assurance. Not everyone's at the same level, which shows through in the forums, where the pieces are..."workshopped" according to one of our members. Although most of the hardcore stuff happens behind the scenes in the 'editorial' stages, which brings me to another question: are we not doing a good job of it? Should we be pushing our writers harder...or what, exactly? I realize that everyone ages at their own pace, and to that extent we should give them both time and space for growth, but this worries me. Because some how, in some way it's setting us back.
A few posts back I mentioned how a complete stranger stated that my work represented on another website was far better than the content put on display in our 'zine, which though flattering to me, was a disappointment. Everything seems the same. Are we not pushing creativity hard enough? Not focusing on pushing the envelope? After all, isn't that part of what a workshop does for you? It pushes you to be your best. One piece or maybe two from members is good, and then they slip again. I need to know why.
I suppose the easiest thing to say is that writing isn't the same for everyone, which is what I am constantly being told time and time again. It's frustrating to hear the same thing from different people: not everyone's like you, not everyone takes writing so seriously. It isn't about taking it so seriously...it's about actually using criticism to improve. It's the want to get better, to progress, to push the envelope. That isn't asking for much, is it?
Sunday, November 25, 2007
It's Official
Development, at least temporarily, is over. Thanks to our reliable representative in West Bengal, India, development has prematurely halted. As I scramble to get my thoughts and schedules together, polling for the e-zine might just be extended since we're no longer working on a deadline. Or so it seems.
In my hunt for a new development team, I've decided to ditch the extra components and features for now, subject to good re-design work instead. So we'll see how all that pans out. There will in all likelihood, be a round of further discussions and negotiations which of course, isn't something I particularly look forward to.
But this will, however, give me a lot of time to plan out the design in detail as well as work with the designer to come up with both an effective color scheme as well as a well suited logo to our site and concept. Hopefully, something before the reading scheduled in March. We'll need logos and color schemes on the bookmarks and banners, so...still a lot of work to be done.
I suppose the key in all this is organization and planning down to the last detail. That may have been the lesson learnt in all this. But just thought everyone should know, about the latest upheaval in running a website...since it seems, for all intents and purposes, I am the website...which in a certain light, is just plain sad.
Hopefully my next post will be a tad more hopeful.
In my hunt for a new development team, I've decided to ditch the extra components and features for now, subject to good re-design work instead. So we'll see how all that pans out. There will in all likelihood, be a round of further discussions and negotiations which of course, isn't something I particularly look forward to.
But this will, however, give me a lot of time to plan out the design in detail as well as work with the designer to come up with both an effective color scheme as well as a well suited logo to our site and concept. Hopefully, something before the reading scheduled in March. We'll need logos and color schemes on the bookmarks and banners, so...still a lot of work to be done.
I suppose the key in all this is organization and planning down to the last detail. That may have been the lesson learnt in all this. But just thought everyone should know, about the latest upheaval in running a website...since it seems, for all intents and purposes, I am the website...which in a certain light, is just plain sad.
Hopefully my next post will be a tad more hopeful.
Saturday, November 10, 2007
Ready. Set. Kazam!
Yes, yes I've been MIA and for that I must profoundly apologize. Many things have happened in the interim, political instabilities not withstanding. I shall try, in my bumbling way, to keep politics for the most part, at least until our Podium's set up, out of the picture.
For one, our memberbase is kicking and by kicking, I do mean kicking. A new member's posted something about Sulman Rushdie, we're having a little political debate about the current crisis in the country, the e-zine and regular forums are alive, new posts almost daily in One Day, Two Minutes and A Writer's Journal. If you're feeling hesitant about posting, now's the time to start jumping into the center of things so to speak. All eyes, for once in a very long time, won't be on you. We've got enough pieces to keep our hands full, so to speak.
Not to mention, if you're posting, chances are you will be heard and someone or the other will step up to help you. The key here is that we're all writers and we're all learning, experimenting and in turn critiquing and hopefully, it doesn't sound too much like criticism. The important thing to remember is that we're all very different people and very opinionated and as a result, there will be clashes of ego.
When the new site unveils, changes will be made in the forums--topics will, in all likelihood, be switched and moved around--the "wheels", "events" and "co-ordinations" threads will be removed in favor of The Podium and the vBulletin board respectively. We'll also be getting a gallery, including one for the site as well as the forums, so there are changes planned ahead. We can cover events with pictures, limited to either public or members only viewing.
Yes, I think that's about all for now.
Comments are as always, welcome.
For one, our memberbase is kicking and by kicking, I do mean kicking. A new member's posted something about Sulman Rushdie, we're having a little political debate about the current crisis in the country, the e-zine and regular forums are alive, new posts almost daily in One Day, Two Minutes and A Writer's Journal. If you're feeling hesitant about posting, now's the time to start jumping into the center of things so to speak. All eyes, for once in a very long time, won't be on you. We've got enough pieces to keep our hands full, so to speak.
Not to mention, if you're posting, chances are you will be heard and someone or the other will step up to help you. The key here is that we're all writers and we're all learning, experimenting and in turn critiquing and hopefully, it doesn't sound too much like criticism. The important thing to remember is that we're all very different people and very opinionated and as a result, there will be clashes of ego.
When the new site unveils, changes will be made in the forums--topics will, in all likelihood, be switched and moved around--the "wheels", "events" and "co-ordinations" threads will be removed in favor of The Podium and the vBulletin board respectively. We'll also be getting a gallery, including one for the site as well as the forums, so there are changes planned ahead. We can cover events with pictures, limited to either public or members only viewing.
Yes, I think that's about all for now.
Comments are as always, welcome.
Thursday, November 1, 2007
Ch-ch-changes
The development work began a few days ago--on October 27th to be exact, but my "official" starting date was Nov 01, which as you might have noticed--has arrived. Development on the book club of things has started, and each new step is drilling more clearly my own vision for the site. So it's a good feeling.
Of course, I need to have a time line, an accurate representation of what's going to happen when to better assess how long it's going to take. They always quote you a time which might end up being a placeholder for how long it's actually going to take. Considering I was once in the field myself, I know the common mentality. So there's that. Dun-dun.
The second thing I'm interested in is getting this blog aggregated with Bloggers.pk--a blog aggregator for all Pakistan related blogs. So here's hoping we get selected. I had to answer a question on what a 'lotta' is. Never thought there'd ever be a day.
Anyway, T2F for those of you who aren't like me and don't subscribe to newsletters of events in other cities, and ones that you'll probably never attend: is hosting a poetry reading. It's in Karachi, but since some of our readers are from the city by the sea, here's a heads up.
Obi's play is still playing at the Islamabad Club and it will continue doing so for the next week--it ends, as mentioned earlier--on Nov 08. And be prepared, it isn't your usual play. For someone whose known, seen Obi's growth on the forums, the play will be seen as very much in character. So do go there.
Our Book Club lags, and it's a very, very sad fact and I suddenly realized earlier today that I would need to paraphrase all our discussion on the Club (for which I am paying an additional sum) for week-to-week or two weekly, or however we're going to arrange it. This will mean of course, that we'll all need to be more involved and with our current dormant member base I don't see that happening in the near future. There is, as mentioned earlier, only so much that I alone can do. I'll need some support. Putting that theory to test, my abstinence from the Book Club seems only to throw everyone else off of it too. It's a little disheartening, actually. However, I am optimistic.
Anyway, there's still a lot more development planned including most importantly, a new look which would be nice. I'm thinking we might eventually give our issues 'covers' of some sort. Something to let people know what's inside. Make it more like a magazine on the internet, so to speak. Yes, there are changes galore.
Ah well, we'll see.
Of course, I need to have a time line, an accurate representation of what's going to happen when to better assess how long it's going to take. They always quote you a time which might end up being a placeholder for how long it's actually going to take. Considering I was once in the field myself, I know the common mentality. So there's that. Dun-dun.
The second thing I'm interested in is getting this blog aggregated with Bloggers.pk--a blog aggregator for all Pakistan related blogs. So here's hoping we get selected. I had to answer a question on what a 'lotta' is. Never thought there'd ever be a day.
Anyway, T2F for those of you who aren't like me and don't subscribe to newsletters of events in other cities, and ones that you'll probably never attend: is hosting a poetry reading. It's in Karachi, but since some of our readers are from the city by the sea, here's a heads up.
Obi's play is still playing at the Islamabad Club and it will continue doing so for the next week--it ends, as mentioned earlier--on Nov 08. And be prepared, it isn't your usual play. For someone whose known, seen Obi's growth on the forums, the play will be seen as very much in character. So do go there.
Our Book Club lags, and it's a very, very sad fact and I suddenly realized earlier today that I would need to paraphrase all our discussion on the Club (for which I am paying an additional sum) for week-to-week or two weekly, or however we're going to arrange it. This will mean of course, that we'll all need to be more involved and with our current dormant member base I don't see that happening in the near future. There is, as mentioned earlier, only so much that I alone can do. I'll need some support. Putting that theory to test, my abstinence from the Book Club seems only to throw everyone else off of it too. It's a little disheartening, actually. However, I am optimistic.
Anyway, there's still a lot more development planned including most importantly, a new look which would be nice. I'm thinking we might eventually give our issues 'covers' of some sort. Something to let people know what's inside. Make it more like a magazine on the internet, so to speak. Yes, there are changes galore.
Ah well, we'll see.
Sunday, September 30, 2007
Old Arguments
This website and its associated comments, reinforce what I've mentioned time and again on this blog: the desi writers are just not doing enough to make a mark in the world in general, and the literary world in specific. The question becomes: what are we so afraid of, and why?
Although the article itself discusses the validity of MFA programs, the comments are fascinating reading and seem to echo so many of my own thoughts (and problems) with the current breed of desi writers.
There's the old argument of doing, again. Or lack thereof.
In the spirit of camaraderie, this is an article published by our very own desi writer in The News on Sunday. Shameless self-promotion, you ask? Absolutely. What else is this here for?
In other news, I seem to be having some trouble locating a suitable service provider to match my vision for DesiWritersLounge.net's upgraded version. I can only hope I locate one and try to release some beta form by December's end, although it doesn't look likely.
With so many changes planned, so much to rehash and revise, I wonder whether we'll have any time for e-zine editorial work. Or well, to be more specific, me. Of course, I can always reassign them to my minions, but then considering one's got a play coming up, another will be married by then, the other's got work and the last is a somewhat reluctant participant; things don't look particularly bright.
But December's still a while away yet. "We" should really stop worrying about it
Although the article itself discusses the validity of MFA programs, the comments are fascinating reading and seem to echo so many of my own thoughts (and problems) with the current breed of desi writers.
There's the old argument of doing, again. Or lack thereof.
In the spirit of camaraderie, this is an article published by our very own desi writer in The News on Sunday. Shameless self-promotion, you ask? Absolutely. What else is this here for?
In other news, I seem to be having some trouble locating a suitable service provider to match my vision for DesiWritersLounge.net's upgraded version. I can only hope I locate one and try to release some beta form by December's end, although it doesn't look likely.
With so many changes planned, so much to rehash and revise, I wonder whether we'll have any time for e-zine editorial work. Or well, to be more specific, me. Of course, I can always reassign them to my minions, but then considering one's got a play coming up, another will be married by then, the other's got work and the last is a somewhat reluctant participant; things don't look particularly bright.
But December's still a while away yet. "We" should really stop worrying about it
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