New Writers Award Applications

Phew! I have managed to submit my application for the Scottish Book Trust’s New Writers Awards in time. Thousands (probably) apply for this, so it may be a long shot but I spent quite a while on it, revising the stories I sent them (one has caused me so much grief trying to wrestle it into shape that I no longer know if it’s any good or not. In fact, I kind of hate it) and trying to write something that conveyed exactly why I should be chosen. I hate applications of any kind: it’s so embarrassing trying to sell yourself. However, it’s clearly good practice for submitting manuscripts to publishers and, someday, to be pushing that work at readings, festivals and so on. Your work can’t speak for itself if nobody’s read it. Anyway, the process of applying did help me work out what I need now to develop my writing further and what I need to be focusing on, so even if I’m not successful, it’s been useful.
Did you apply this year? How do you feel about awards? If you are involved with the awards, do you take bribes? Only kidding obviously (but you can contact me through this site, if you need to, like, check anything …)