One of the good things about toiling in the foothills of literature is that a lot of other people are also labouring there. You might imagine the atmosphere would be competitive, and in a way, of course it is, since we all want to succeed and become well-known writers.
The community is, however, remarkably mutually supportive. I have received advice and constructive criticicms from a considerable number of authors who are further up the ladder than I am, and in turn I have, or at least I hope I have, been able to assist those around and below me. A friend’s achievments do not reduce the opportunities for me; on the contrary, they prove to me that what I aspire to do can actually be done.
And even when we have been out of contact for months or years, an announcement that someone we have worked with has had a story accepted at the highest level is a real source of pleasure.
Friends
We are in the same boat And our boat may not float, There'll be earthquakes and really bad weather; We may pull a long face If we sink without trace, But remember we're in it together. It’s a common refrain But friends do feel your pain Even when there’s a world to divide us; And when you succeed, It’s a pleasure to read That a lamp has been lighted to guide us. So here's three cheers for us! Having friends is a plus Even when we are scattered all over; For if one of us wins Then the widest of grins Will be stretching from Frisco to Dover!