Frustration

I submitted my entry to the Writer’s Digest SF/F forum flash fiction contest just now.  I’m not too happy with it.  I mean, it’s fine as far as writing goes. On its own, it’s okay, but I know for this contest there are some good writers who are going to put out some good work.  Do I feel the piece I submitted will stand up?  Honestly, no.

This isn’t any kind of false modesty.  The prompt image stumped me.  I saw a lot of potential in it, potential for all sorts of things, but it was potential that isn’t mine.  It wasn't potential that was meant for me if that makes any sense at all.  I think it was too abstract for me, and I think my mind likes a bit more focus and I have to admit it was a challenge.  In that way it was good, and I learned a bit about the way I’m inspired and the way my mind works and that’s always important for a writer.  I’m glad I persevered through it and challenged myself.  The learning alone was a prize in and of itself.

*mutter mutter grumble grumble* I think I’ll be happy, though, not looking at that piece for a  bit.

Funnily enough, I think part of me got so frustrated writing with this prompt that my mind rebelled and I ended up writing another piece of flash fiction that had nothing to do with the prompt!  Oy.  What can I say?  My writer instinct knows what it likes.

Edit:  Ha!  I'm also frustrated because it has similarities to another story I wrote, a bit longer, and I think that piece was done better.  That piece had a different focus and a different message but still.  *grumble grumble mutter mutter*