how my short story did

at the contest***.

As you may remember, the contest was dedicated to the 100 anniversary of beginning of the first World War (1914). This war re-wrote the map of Europe and devastated Hungary, as it resulted in loosing two-thirds of the country's original territory. (This is no typo here guys: 2/3).

Participants were expected to explore the effects of war, the deeds of heroes and those that served them silently in the back-country.

Anyway, pieces written about WW II. were also eligible.

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There were two categories: one for prose and one for poems.

The story that won the first place in 'prose' was a superb story with so many emotions that it lifted your spirit in one moment and let it sink at the other. It was excellently written and left you in awe. A well-earned first place indeed.

The other winning entries kind of left me untouched. There were 1st , 2nd and 3rd places and a special prize for both prose and poems.

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I got none of these prizes, but I had the chance (as I had a year ago, too...) to talk to two of the three judges (acknowledged Hungarian writers and poets) and I have their opinion to share with you here.

One of the judges liked my short story so much that reading it left him wanting to meet the writer in person. I take it as a compliment. He also said that my writing was within the first 5 best of his choice but he dropped it because it was longer than the limit. Unfortunately not only it was longer but at times it was way too elaborate, unnecessary detailed and winding at places. Had I chopped it down to the character limit, the winding-style would have gone, too, he suggested. I was glad to take this advice and was overwhelmed with the praise :)

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The other judge I talk to also said that my writing was within the first 5-7 best of his choice but he dropped it because it was looong-ish and way too elaborate at places. Whew. :)

He also said that in one particular scene I was quite obscure where I should have been more to the point. I thanked him too, for his time and personal consultation.

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I am so glad that the faults they found are faults I am aware of.

I did know that my writing tends to be way too winding (meandering) and/or obscure at times. I know the problem which means I may find a solution.

Geez, I am happy.

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:)

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***
This is the third year of the contest. It is organized by the town where I live and is growing bigger and bigger as years pass. The awarding ceremony is hosted by the mayor of the town. It is held in the town library (a very famous one) and the results are published in the local paper.
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http://writerswrite.co.za/30-famous-quotes-on-writing-in-plain-language