Short Story Competition: POLL

my post has become irrelevant.

Reply to god must be atheist

Tl;dr. It's an honour thing. Don't be a dick. Nobody likes a dick.

Just 1 vote?

Seems a shame the voting isn't weighted (where each entry has three slots with the left = 3, middle = 2 & right = 1 with members allowed three votes total (voting for your own entry is subtracted)).

My post has become irrelevant.

Reply to 180 Proof

The forum software provides us with a simple poll. We don't have additional options. One poster, one vote. It's fair enough anyhow, I think.

@Baden People could submit their votes to you in a PM. It wouldn't be totally anonymous, but it would allow you to publish who the dick votes were.

Reply to Hanover

As if that would stop you dick voting. :angry:

Quoting Baden

As if that would stop you dick voting

I've always made all major decisions with my dick. No reason to stop now.

When's the next contest? I want to write a story about a guy who always votes for himself. I'll call it The Dick Vote. The irony will be that my story will get one vote, mine.

I'm almost through talking about dicks.

So are you a dick if you vote for the best story rather than your favorite story?

Quoting praxis

are you a dick if you vote for the best story rather than your favorite story?

Only if you have decided the best story is your own.

So you’re saying that it was a dick move to ask what the best story is rather than what “My favorite story is”. That’s a bit harsh, if you asked me.

Anyway, investing in a few sensitivity training sessions is never a bad call.

Quoting praxis

So you’re saying that it was a dick move to ask what the best story is rather than what “My favorite story is”. That’s a bit harsh, if you asked me.

Nope, what I said was that the only dick move was to vote for your own story. I wasn't saying it was a dick question you asked. Not sure how that was deciphered from my comment.

I want to comment on more stories, but also don't want to narrow it down by process of elimination and give away which one's mine. :confused: Hopefully the writers can have a big pow wow after the poll closes.

Reply to Noble Dust

Yeah, though you could totally throw people off by commenting on your own story.

Reply to Hanover

It was entirely contrived, of course.

Quoting praxis

Yeah, though you could totally throw people off by commenting on your own story.

Yes, I thought of that. :razz: Maybe I will...

If the titles were prefixed with [STORY] I see no harm in putting them where they can be seen in the main discussion feed.

Quoting Baden

Good luck to all the entrants!

Hmm. Can you consistently wish good luck to all the entrants?

SO in so far as chance plays a part in the outcome, you are wishing that it not prefer one over the other?

Couldn't you achieve the exact same outcome by wishing all the entrants bad luck?

Reply to Banno "Good luck to you all," screams for a continuation, "and may the best man win", as is always similarly said by the referee in boxing matches.

Except we are not all men; we are not looking for the "best" but for the "most likeable"; and there is nothing to win. Well, glory, yes, if you think maximum "likability" (but not being the best necessarily) is something to be proud of, but the winning does not have millions of dollars at stake like in a champignon-deciding heavy-weight bout.

But we are all having fun, aren't we, and fun is the most important thing here, keep that in mind.

Quoting Banno

by wishing all the entrants bad luck?

Banno, we are talking about Harold Ravitch in the other thread, so why not put this on the table? :rofl: Knowledge and the principle of luck by Harold Ravitch

Quoting Banno

Good luck to all the entrants!
— Baden

Hmm. Can you consistently wish good luck to all the entrants?

Wittgenstein would say something different about this. I don't know what that is that Wittgenstein would make of it, but here the literary meaning is obscuring for you the real, unuttered meaning: "good luck to all the entrants" is a figure of speech, not a cognitively sound and so planned statement. It means different things than a hope for good luck to all; it means good will, it is an expression of good will.

Quoting god must be atheist

I don't know what that is that Wittgenstein would make of it, but here the literary meaning is obscuring for you the real, unuttered meaning

Some evidence shows that W struggled to make this distinction.

Apparently Wittgensteinn telephoned a friend in hospital, Fania Pascal, who told the following story:

“I had my tonsils out and was in the Evelyn Nurshing Home feeling sorry for myself. Wittgenstein called. I croaked: “I feel just like a dog that has been run over.” He was disgusted: “You don’t know what a dog that has been run over feels like.”

https://intelligentmeasurement.net/2008/04/28/tonsils-run-over-dogs-and-comparisons/

Despite appearances, Fania did not claim to know what a dog feels like. She needed the kind of sympathy that a kind person would show to a dog that's just been run over. Her statement was a bid to elicit such sympathy. It was not a philosophical claim about canine other-minds.

Likewise, Banno thinks that wishing good luck equally is a wish that probabilities should be distributed in a certain way and pointing out that equal bad luck would lead to the same distribution. (Actually, I imagine he doesn't think that, he's just pretending. I guess. It's fun.) As you say, it's not about probabilities. It's an expression of good will.

It's a matter of 'literal' vs 'figurative' understanding. It is also a matter of appreciating what kind of speech act is being performed by the person making the utterance. Is it a bid for sympathy or a philosophical claim? Is it an expression of desire for certain random factors to be distributed in a particular way; or an expression of friendly good will to contestants?

Wittgenstein called. I croaked: “I feel just like a dog that has been run over.” He was disgusted: “You don’t know what a dog that has been run over feels like.”

I agree, Reply to Cuthbert , but I would like to also carry it a bit further.

Though he was right that the lady had no way of knowing how a run-over dog feels, 1. Wittgenstein himself also did not know what a dog that had just been run over feels like, and 2. Wittgenstein did not know how the lady felt.

Therefore Wittgenstein was comparing two unknowns, and declared they are not equivalent. That is not a valid deducing, if you claim certainty of the truth of that deducing. Wittgenstein claimed that certainty, and therefore he was wrong.

Quoting Cuthbert

Actually, I imagine he doesn't think that, he's just pretending.

:eyes: :100:

In other news, I am going to vote for anyone who has not voted for themselves. Fortunately I did not submit a story and so just manage to avoid Russell's paradox by the skin of my teeth.

(If someone points out that teeth don't have skin then I will leave the discussion with whatever might be left of my dignity intact.)

Quoting Cuthbert

(Actually, I imagine he doesn't think that, he's just pretending. I guess. It's fun.)

Wicked wind-up wizards, one and all :cool:
Sometimes, I play along, as you say, just for fun :wink:

Quoting Cuthbert

I will leave the discussion with whatever might be left of my dignity intact.)

The sub-discussion is inspirational - what a story - 'The Philosopher's Poll'.

Quoting Cuthbert

In other news, I am going to vote for anyone who has not voted for themselves

:smile: Have you read all the stories and do you intend to comment ?
I have skimmed all. Now, on a second read with 2 and a half stories to go.
They all have a certain... je ne sais quoi.

@Baden - I want to have 3 votes. Can I do that ? Would I be banned ?

Quoting 180 Proof

Just 1 vote?
Seems a shame the voting isn't weighted (where each entry has three slots with the left = 3, middle = 2 & right = 1 with members allowed three votes total (voting for your own entry is subtracted)).

Even if they are not weighted. I can't pick one 'favourite'...I just can't...
What a predicament - merde !
O me miserum :groan:

Reply to Amity

Would definitely be nice to have more options when setting up polls like this, but this is all we got, sorry.

?????.

Quoting Amity

je ne sais quoi.

Moi non plus.

Just kidding. Of course I know what je ne sais quoi means. But I wouldn't let everyone know that.

Quoting Baden

but this is all we got, sorry.

:groan:
There has to be another way round this. This is SO damned cruel - for entrants and voters.
Even if it is all in fun. Time and energy have been spent...

Where are all the problem-solvers like @Noble Dust - any ideas ?

Quoting Cuthbert

?????.

It's all Greek to me :wink:

Quoting Banno

Can you consistently wish good luck to all the entrants?

Good luck to everyone except Banno.

Reply to Amity

It's a simple poll. Everyone who wants to chooses their favourite story (if they have one). Fair and straightforward. And the poll cannot be changed anymore than the software can. Let's not dramatise it.

Quoting Baden

Would definitely be nice to have more options when setting up polls like this, but this is all we got, sorry.

A solution would be to set up three polls. The first, you vote for first place. The second, second place. The third, third place. Every first place vote gets 3 points, second place 2 points, third place 1 point. You add them up and arrive at a winner.

That's an idea. Whether you think it a good one, I don't know, but an idea it is.

Quoting Hanover

That's an idea. Whether you think it a good one, I don't know, but an idea it is.

Let's do a poll to find out if we should go ahead with that. No, better do 3. :up:

I'll consider rearranging things the next time. Hoping to do this twice a year. I'd rather not interfere now when things have kicked off though.

Quoting Baden

I'll consider rearranging things the next time. Hoping to do this twice a year. I'd rather not interfere now when things have kicked off though.

I agree with this, and I was actually hesitant to offer a solution because I figured it would just add more discussion to this whole thing despite it already having been set up and done, but when one has a clever idea in their head it just has to be spoken.

Reply to Hanover

:up:

Quoting Baden

I'll consider rearranging things the next time. Hoping to do this twice a year. I'd rather not interfere now when things have kicked off though.

:up:

Quoting Baden

And the poll cannot be changed anymore than the software can.
Let's not dramatise it.

So...to carry on a being drama queen and :cry: bitter tears...
Simple and straightforward it is. But it sure ain't fair.
It doesn't have to be complex, does it ?

Quoting Hanover

when one has a clever idea in their head it just has to be spoken.

The more the merrier :cool:

As one of the participants, I can tell you that far more important than the voting are the comments, which is hypocritical to some degree because I've not really reviewed many of the stories, so maybe I'll up my game there. But, yeah, I do actually get some degree of excitement to see that someone has reviewed my story, so if people could do that, I know it'd be appreciated by all the authors.

This is for you @Amity, since you can only vote once, you should have plenty of time do reviews. :grin:

Quoting Hanover

But, yeah, I do actually get some degree of excitement to see that someone has reviewed my story, so if people could do that,

Be careful what you wish for. :naughty:

Quoting Hanover

I do actually get some degree of excitement to see that someone has reviewed my story, so if people could do that, I know it'd be appreciated by all the authors.

This is for you Amity, since you can only vote once, you should have plenty of time do reviews

:smile: I agree that the comments are more meaningful. Some are brilliant :fire:

To reach the point where I am comfortable to vote, I am reading x 2 and hope to leave a response to each story. Others here are more able to leave constructive advice.
Advice I can't provide, nor will I comment on grammar, etc.
Almost finished reading.
Then, not a review but a few thoughts...to show my appreciation...

I mentioned this site earlier:
https://blog.dinyfvk.com/how-to-judge-a-short-story-writing-competition
Step 3 of 5 looks useful:

• What I like about the story (always give some positive feedback).
• I note any lines, phrases or words that I find pleasing or clever.
• I will note anything that I feel needs more clarification for the reader.
• I make suggestions about how the story might be even better, but ensure the writer understands that this is only my opinion and that a different reader may have a completely different view on the story.
• I will also make a note of any obvious errors, such as typos, repetition and incorrect words – this isn’t an edit and certainly not a proof-reading, but I know that a writer will want to know where there are errors so that they can be corrected before the story is sent off to another competition.
• I also write a single sentence description for each story, which I place under the story heading. The purpose of this is to give the writer an understanding of how their story is seen by the reader, a bit like an ‘elevator pitch’ – for example in a recent competition I judged, I described one story as: ‘A young American student is wooed by a strange man with a passion for history and a worrying interest in reincarnation.’

This has been an enjoyable experience and learning a lot to boot, to boot :nerd:

Thanks to @Baden and all entrants :sparkle:

Reply to Amity
I realise how much effort you are putting into reading the stories and how I rushed to vote. I decided what to vote on the basis of what story remained in my head really, a few hours after reading them. I was looking and seeing that only 5 people had voted this morning and thought that it may mean that only a small number of people apart from the entrants may be interested on this site. But, it may be that people are giving it careful thought. I don't know why I rushed and, next time, I think that I will read all the entries a few more times. Of course, I can still give feedback to the entrants, because it may be that this is more helpful rather than simply voting for a favourite.

Quoting Jack Cummins

I decided what to vote on the basis of what story remained in my head really, a few hours after reading them.

Noticed that :wink: And that is a good first step as per:

Quoting How to judge a short story

Read and enjoy each of the stories without judging them – be open and just see how each story makes you feel – do any stand out, or keep coming back to your mind after you’ve read them?

Quoting Jack Cummins

I can still give feedback to the entrants, because it may be that this is more helpful rather than simply voting for a favourite.

I think that careful and thoughtful feedback would be much appreciated.
I hope the aforementioned site can help me do a half decent job.

Quoting Amity

https://blog.dinyfvk.com/how-to-judge-a-short-story-writing-competition

Step 2
There will be a myriad of writing styles, some of which you like and some that you may not care for. Try not to be swayed by your own preferences.

And talking of preferences – perhaps you hate happy endings, or you loathe swathes of detailed descriptions. Do not discount stories based on your own taste, you need to focus on the merits of the story and technique over and above what you do and don’t like.

I am loving this. Quite the unexpected challenge :sparkle:

Reply to Amity
Of course, we are being encouraged to vote for our favourite here. I think that in viewing any piece of writing it is worth paying attention to personal taste and objective measures and if I give any feedback to the stories I will try to do this. Even though I rushed my vote, I am a bit more hasty about what to say in feedback. That is because I believe that feedback can affect people a lot, more than votes really. It probably is about constructive criticism. But, I have probably not given much feedback because I don't always know what to say in response to a piece of writing, but, perhaps it is better to say something rather than nothing.

Reply to Amity

Read them all and follow your gut; that's what I did. Problem solved. :razz:

Reply to Jack Cummins

I voted quickly too, but I've done some re-reading since then and still feel the same way. I think I'm just picky; there's a clear hierarchy in my mind for what I like.

Quoting Jack Cummins

But, I have probably not given much feedback because I don't always know what to say in response to a piece of writing, but, perhaps it is better to say something rather than nothing.

I think we can overthink this to an nth degree. Some comments follow the K.I.S.S. principle.
Short and sweet, honey :love:

Quoting Noble Dust

Read them all and follow your gut; that's what I did. Problem solved.

You are my favourite problem solver :100:
I will follow your advice :kiss:

Reply to Noble Dust
But, it does seem that people are not following the 'gut', or may not be reading the stories, because, at the moment, only 5 people have voted at all. Or, perhaps they don't like any of the stories, but I guess that there is still plenty of time.

Quoting Noble Dust

there's a clear hierarchy in my mind for what I like.

So what is the clear hierarchy that your mind/gut works on ?

Reply to Jack Cummins

I read too fast generally, so I'm assuming people are taking their time (a better approach) and digesting them.

Quoting Jack Cummins

at the moment, only 5 people have voted at all. Or, perhaps they don't like any of the stories, but I guess that there is still plenty of time.

We are all sadists. End of. :naughty:
Well...with masochistic tendencies :halo:

Reply to Amity

I can't go into too much detail! Still trying to protect my identity...

Quoting Noble Dust

I can't go into too much detail!

Well, give us a bare outline then...for goodness sake. Help us in our hour of need :pray:

Quoting Noble Dust

Still trying to protect my identity...

I already guessed... :joke:

Quoting Amity

Well, give us a bare outline then...for goodness sake. Help us in our hour of need :pray:

I'm just blabbering here; there are other posters who know more about literature than I do. Bare outline: draw me in, keep me there, make me feel something, and make me think. How's that?

Quoting Amity

I already guessed... :joke:

We'll see if you're right!

Quoting Noble Dust

...draw me in, keep me there, make me feel something, and make me think. How's that?

Your are SO good at this. Exactly the basix :up:
So, I'll tell it like that in the comments. 4 easy points to consider with supporting quotes.
Yay. Almost there...

Quoting Noble Dust

We'll see if you're right!

Can hardly wait... :wink:

Quoting Jack Cummins

But, I have probably not given much feedback because I don't always know what to say in response to a piece of writing, but, perhaps it is better to say something rather than nothing.

My feedback tends to be substantive, as in what the story was about and what I got from it. I lack the expertise to tell anyone about sentence structure or better forms of writing or various literary devices that could have been used and whatnot. I'm sure a well written story has an impact on me for having been well written, but I don't know that I'd be able to specifically say why that was or care all that much.

I fully respect that creative writing is an art and that there teachable techniques to help people develop their skills. Whoever reads my critiques or my story, know that I have no aspirations beyond being an amateur.

Reply to Hanover
I am definitely an amateur, but I think that feedback is something everyone can give, and would probably not be helpful if we just gave it on the basis of 'good writing.' I have to admit that I want to give useful feedback to people but find it fairly difficult to do. I think that I find it harder to write about people's unique stories than reply to philosophy posts, but, perhaps, it is about getting in a different mindset.

I tend to comment without a review because I don't want to unduly bias other readers or their vote. A few stories I really enjoy and wish I had written instead of mine (NB: no worries this time @Benkei), but I don't want to jump on a bandwagon of praise or start one. Also, only 5 votes so far indicates, I suspect, more thoughtful rereading is going on than not – what's the rush given the poll closes in ten more days? I'll wait some more days, reread maybe half the stories again, make more comments and save my reviews until after "the winner" is announced.

Btw, I believe I've been able to guess only of the authors so far; the guessing game seems to distract from my rereadings. I'm looking forward to more feedback on my entry as well as other authors' sharing the inspirations for and interpretations of their own stories in comparison to the feedback they get. Too bad the poll doesn't allow for weighted voting; even Reply to Hanover's kludge would be better. All the same, thanks again @Baden for making this contest happen! :up:

Reply to 180 Proof
I think that I have worked out 3 simply on the basis of the style of the writing but I could be wrong. It will be fun to try to guess afterwards, but people should probably have the right to remain as anonymous as that was the basis for entering. Hopefully, no one will feel that badly about the contest anyway.

Reply to 180 Proof haha, well, I'd be happy for you if you do win. It's all tongue in cheek from me. But I'm not commenting for the same reason. I've only read one story so far that I connected with. Not finished one even if it has had very positive reviews (which I feel I can safely say because there are several with good reviews now) . That doesn't say diddly squat about quality, of course. I just have weird taste. I need to read five more and then I'm done.

Reply to Benkei :up:

Reply to Jack Cummins If an author wants to remain anonymous, s/he shouldn't enter into a short story contest in a small, self-selected, community like our TPF. There's the whole rest of the internet to anonymously publish yourself. I've always used a nom de plume for my fiction writing, but in this case "identity" (handle, use name, nom de guerre) is part of being a member of a community. Oh, you didn't realize this is a free falling wingsuit "No Parachutes Allowed" party, Jack, until after you've already jumped from a perfectly good airplane? :sweat:

https://m.youtube.com/watch?v=MU2XnEba_LI

Reply to 180 Proof
Yes, I agree that it would probably be stupid to expect to remain as anonymous. I think that we should be prepared to fly through the air after jumping from the plane, and not give up writing. The competition is meant to be fun, and, hopefully, a learning experience, for better writing, and a great moment for whoever wins.

Reply to Jack Cummins Well, I've won my share of story contests and winning is the least of I've gotten out of the experience from first draft to constructive feedback. I've no doubt I won't win this one, which is quite okay with me, but I do hope I get more feedback than my story has gotten so far.

Reply to 180 Proof
I am glad that you have entered and won writing contests. I haven't entered any ever, and I think that this one is an unusual one really because it a site comprised of people who have joined a site to discuss philosophy as a common ground. So, I am sure that will affect the results and the feedback. But, even though I know I go on about 'failure', deep down I can see beyond that, and really, just see it as an extremely interesting experiment, or little adventure, and a diversion from philosophy.

Reply to Jack Cummins Don't be bitchy. You seem to think this contest is about "winning" and my point is that it is not. Take the monkey off your back and go through the collective exercise of sharing and learning and maybe, thereby, improving. In other words, either win or learn. The only ones who "lose" are the ones you fail to embrace the lesson and incorporate constructive feedback because they let childish vanity block them.

Quoting 180 Proof

You seem to think this contest is about "winning" and my point is that it is not.

You're right. Contests are not about winning; contests are about something else. Participation. Learning. Improving the self. Improving others. Giving back. Paying forward.

Like hell! Contests are by their own inherent dynamics competitive. What you are saying, 180, is that people don't play lotto to win inordinately large sums of money, but to support hospitals and other charitable things. Well, if that was their motivation, they could just give the money they pay on lottery tickets and bingo directly to the hospitals. But they don't, and that is my point.

This is the ultimate challenge to show "I've bettered thou". I mean, in the threads you can destroy someone with arguments, but it's not the same. There they can just shrug it off or pretend they won the argument. When hard, cold, votes are counted against you to favour the other guy, (or gal) then you really have to turn up the rationalization process to shut off the cognitive dissonance.

However, I agree with you that Jack's constant and ceaseless whining is becoming a bit annoying.

Reply to god must be atheist Hey, man, I super competitive and I'll be damned if I don't always play to win! But, for me at least, the journey is the destination, especially when undertaking creative endeavors like this with very low stakes. It's supposed to be friendly and fun, right? Anyway, I was just trying give Jack a different perspective on the contest so that maybe, just maybe, he'd stop his damn whining. To tell the truth, I'd love for Jack to win so that then we all could go picnicking on his "winning story" and then, when he whinges on about all the 'harsh criticisms', we tell him (in my best Jonathan Pie voice) "Hey, you bloody won, mate! So now go fuck off!" :joke:

Reply to 180 Proof
I will work on my tendency to moan and, I don't really want to be the whining voice on the site. It's a pity we can't go picnicking in the park with some great music for whoever wins. Writing songs is also interesting, and my mum used to write song lyrics and try to find people to put tunes to them. People who enter television competitions where they perform songs and get feedback and votes publically must be extremely brave.

Reply to Jack Cummins :up:

Quoting 180 Proof

I'd love for Jack to win so that then we all could go picnicking on his "winning story"

What to bring to a winning story picnic? :chin: I can make a mean coleslaw salad and a killer grilled teriyaki tri-tip. And wine, there should be lots of whine.

Reply to praxis

I pickle a mean radish. They're very versatile.

Quoting 180 Proof

then we all could go picnicking on his "winning story"

This better not be an 'Authors Only' party :brow:
Cos...I've been reading and writing my guts out here !!!

Update re comments: 5 down, 7 to go. Ho! Ho! Ho!
Time to wine, dine and dance...almost there...hang on, I'm coming. Ready or not :monkey:

'I Wanna Dance With Somebody' - Whitney
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=eH3giaIzONA

Reply to Amity

There's a story-comment word-count minimum for non-authors to be eligible for a picnic invite, so I think you're in the clear.

For the picnic, I will bring a festive pig to slaughter and to cook in a pit. Or I can bring paper plates. Let me know.

Quoting Noble Dust

There's a story-comment word-count minimum for non-authors to be eligible for a picnic invite, so I think you're in the clear.

:hearts: :party: :starstruck:

Reply to Hanover

Yeah, can you bring both of those, and also a deluxe propane grill for @praxis's steaks? Oh, and a cooler for all of his wine. With ice salad in it to keep the wine cold and creamy.

Reply to Noble Dust Sounds good. Send me the addy. Sometimes it's hard to transport livestock across international borders, so it might make more sense to hunt a local one depending on the deets. Prish.

Reply to Hanover

There's a dearth of quality livestock in the People's Republic of New York City, so if everyone can get their visas in order, the Kingdom of Alabama might be a better location.

I voted.

Reply to Benkei

Flight, right? I'm only guessing because I just voted this morning, and I could never resist a curt rhyme.

Quoting 180 Proof

go through the collective exercise of sharing and learning and maybe, thereby, improving. In other words, either win or learn. The only ones who "lose" are the ones you fail to embrace the lesson and incorporate constructive feedback because they let childish vanity block them.

:up:

Quoting Benkei

I voted.

So if someone were following the voting and then they read "I voted" from you, they might be able to figure out from the new vote which one was yours.

Reply to praxis Lots of wine. :up:

Reply to Hanover
Yup. Already did. Does it matter ?
Will he crash and burn...

As a matter of interest...can the mods see who votes for what ?

Reply to 180 Proof Since it's a picnic and presumably warm I vote for a Viognier and a slightly chilled Côte du Rhone. And some stinky cheeses, kalamata olives and latzimas olive oil and bread for dipping. Tapenade, pesto, lardo, seranno ham.

And god dammit I was just going to suggest the wines...

Quoting Benkei

Viognier

Are you trying to induce a coma mid-picnic?

Reply to Noble Dust I take it you like it?

Quoting Amity

As a matter of interest...can the mods see who votes for what ?

No, we really can't. There was some joking in that regard, but no. I'd think it'd take some hacking into the software to find out who voted for what.

Quoting Benkei

Since it's a picnic and presumably warm I vote for a Viognier and a slightly chilled Côte du Rhone. And some stinky cheeses, kalamata olives and latzimas olive oil and bread for dipping. Tapenade, pesto, lardo, seranno ham.

And god dammit I was just going to suggest the wines...

Aren't y'all high highfalutin. I was going to bring PB&J sammiches.

Reply to Benkei

Usually pretty high abv, no?

Reply to Hanover :up:

I'm also partial to blaufrankische wines and have particularly good memories from the alsace so Rieslings and Pinot Grigio from the region are always enjoyable, even if not necessarily that good. But with the right memories it's just better.

Quoting Hanover

I was going to bring PB&J sammiches.

Sandwiches, scones, shortbread with strawberries and cream washed down with unlimited tea served in elegant, vintage china. Tea, of course, with additives... :party:

I'll bring a Cassis rosé and maybe a Verdicchio. And some baloney sandwhiches.

I'll bring my cat. She'll eat some of that shit you're bringing.

Quoting Hanover

I'll bring my cat. She'll eat some of that shit you're bringing.

Trust you to bring eating pussies into the conversation...

All these riffs on my mention of "picnicking" make me laugh since I meant it in the sense of cannibalizing (i.e. dismembering a friend's carcass). Bon appétit! :sweat:

This user has been deleted and all their posts removed.

Quoting tim wood

I was gonna commend and appreciate Amity for her work in reading and commenting on the stories, but after her line above, not sure the comment amounts to anything.

:lol: :rofl: :broken:

Reply to Amity :smirk:

Quoting 180 Proof

All these riffs on my mention of "picnicking" make me laugh since I meant it in the sense of cannibalizing (i.e. dismembering a friend's carcass). Bon appétit! :sweat:

Quoting 180 Proof

picnicking on his "winning story" and then, when he whinges on about all the 'harsh criticisms',

Ah, you meant nit-picking, tearing it to bits. How cruel of you. Never would have thunk :smirk:
As long we can still have cake and tea...

Everything I'm bringing is laced with something, it will be a surprise.

I meant something, not someone... that would be pretty weird...

Quoting Amity

As long we can still have cake and tea...

:party: :mask:

Edit: I borrowed the phrase "to go picnicking on" from a line by, IIRC, in the great classic film Lion in Winter.

"I don't care who's king, but you and Henry do. I want to watch the two of you go picnicking on one another."
~Prince Geoffrey to Eleanor of Aquitaine

With shaking hands I'll open my purse and buy salt for the picnic.

Quoting Amity

Trust you to bring eating pussies into the conversation...

To clarify:

I will be eating sammiches, which is not a euphemism for vagina. While satisfying, it's not filling. Should I bring my cat, it will be my cat, not a vagina I claim ownership of. Should I bring a thick dripping sausage, that will be exactly what you think it is. It is a picnic after all.

Quoting Wosret

Everything I'm bringing is laced with something, it will be a surprise.

I once laced the cookies with estrogen. The men awoke with titties, the women with more regular cycles.

Best. Gag. Ever.

Reply to Hanover

As long as you didn't stare.

Reply to Amity @Outlander @Noble Dust Thank you for taking your time to comment on all the stories. As one of the contestants I really appreciated it.

Quoting Hanover

It is a picnic after all.

Regardez ici !
'Le Dejeuner sur l'herbe' - Manet (1863)
Ceci n'est pas seulement un pique-nique.

https://www.theguardian.com/artanddesign/jonathanjonesblog/2014/aug/21/top-10-picnics-art-manet-monet-matisse-titian
--------

Similarly, a short story is more than a gathering of yummy words.
Quoting Paint your own story

A good work of fiction uses words to paint a moving picture. Any narrative or plot can paint a story, but just like a still picture, it can surface as being boring or plain with no special “punch” or “kick” to it, i.e. with little power to affect one emotionally or mentally...

A story with a lasting effect is like a painting by Van Gogh, with texture, vibrancy, sharpness, and a flow of colourful or significant words, with a unified theme, and sometimes with sub-themes or sub-plots, which must seamlessly tie in with the other elements.

https://writingcooperative.com/paint-your-own-story-1e2656b3413f
--------

An artoon:
https://thephilosophyforum.com/discussion/comment/576589

Reply to Benkei
Appreciate your appreciation :sparkle:
I am only half-way through and taking a bit of a breather today.
See ya on t'other side...

I thought of a neat prize. Those who want to could chip in a buck or two to get the winner's story entered here:

https://www.tckpublishing.com/2021-short-story-awards-contest/
Entry fee is $12, 1st prize is $1000.

We can also think about how the story could be improved upon so that it has a chance of winning.

Reply to Benkei So, by not thanking me, you identify that of the stories I've reviewed, yours isn't one of them.

Reply to Hanover I thought Amity had reviewed all of them, I knew you hadn't. So that says exactly nothing.

Reply to Benkei

No thanks needed. I wouldn't have felt entitled to comment as I did if I had submitted my own. I know I'm awesome, and don't need a prize to reinforce that. Now being able to talk down to others, that's the real prize. Just kidding?

Reply to Hanover I'll give you a hint though. The best story is mine. If it doesn't win it's just because you Philistines don't know what you're talking about.

Quoting hypericin

I thought of a neat prize. Those who want to could chip in a buck or two to get the winner's story entered here:

https://www.tckpublishing.com/2021-short-story-awards-contest/
Entry fee is $12, 1st prize is $1000.

We can also think about how the story could be improved upon so that it has a chance of winning.

I like this idea very much. I would certainly contribute if it's a "go".

Reply to god must be atheist

But think of the philosophical implications. The winner would instantly be slingshot into fame and fortune. He or she would lose all touch with the sides of life that fathered such insight in the first place. One small stumble for man, one giant faceplant for mankind!

Quoting hypericin

I thought of a neat prize...

Nice but still with focus on a 'winner'. Got me thinking though...

Quoting Outlander

But think of the philosophical implications. The winner would instantly be slingshot into fame and fortune. He or she would lose all touch with the sides of life that fathered such insight in the first place.

Exactly. A cupid :heart: or cruel :broken: arrow of fate. Who's to know?

Right, here's the thing. Each and every entrant is suitably prized according to a distinctive attribute.
So, 12 special prezzies to think about...how creative can we get ?
But no giving away...just yet...it has to be a surprise, along with the sandwiches Yay :party:

Periodic reminder that the stories are here: https://thephilosophyforum.com/categories/37/short-story-competition

Quoting Outlander

But think of the philosophical implications. The winner would instantly be slingshot into fame and fortune. He or she would lose all touch with the sides of life that fathered such insight in the first place. One small stumble for man, one giant faceplant for mankind!

It may not be philosophical, but I'm aiming at the practical. Once the best of the best of the best is eliminated into fame and fortune, the next best of the best of the best will have the same fate... and so on, down the line, one by one they will fall to the misfortune of wealth, fame and fortune, until there are no more left but me, and thus shall I become the best of the best of the best!

Hahaaa! Heheee!

Quoting 180 Proof

Lots of wine. :up:

Wine is only about 30 proof, you know.

Quoting Wosret

As long as you didn't stare

Oh, I'm gonna stare.

About the reviews -

It's such a positive experience to read a meaningful review of your creation, like sitting around admiring your own reflection with another. I totally get the allure of narcissism now and regret not having spent more time with all that am more oftenly.

When you're a writer, you are given the liberty of using words like "oftenly." It's a writer thing. You wouldn't understand.

Reply to Hanover

Welcome to the tortured artist life. You're now a shitty person. :party:

Reply to Noble Dust

With talent comes torment, and with mastery, madness.

Reply to praxis

Goes best with a good meal and good company. :yum:

.

Quoting Baden

Don't be a dick and vote for yourself + sockpuppet voters instabanned.

You could lose that - or move it to the end of the post in brackets.
It isn't what you might call an inviting start :roll:

Reply to Amity

Hm, it's almost like you're questioning my interpersonal skills? :chin: :grin:

Quoting Baden

Hm, it's almost like you're questioning my interpersonal skills?

As if ! :gasp:

Just noting the voting.
I know there's still plenty of time left. I've still to vote.
I'm waiting until I've finished commenting and that is taking longer than anticipated !

But...one wonders if further encouragement...rather than a dick-style start...you know what I mean !
It ain't aesthetically pleasing...and doesn't reflect your wonderfully radiant and charming personality.
Usually, you turn people on :100: not off :monkey:

:hearts: :sparkle: :fire:

Maybe I got off on that argument about my being a dick or having balls, and what constitutes the difference between the two, on the start of the thread for the same reason. It is not nice being called a dick before one does a dick thing. This opening reminded me of the Plenty of Fish dating site owner, who called his customers (some of them) jerks. That guy was repulsive, an a-hole and truly a dick. Why am I all of a sudden put in the same category, without even having moved a muscle?

This was not nice, that was probably my main motivation. I am not very much in touch with my own feelings, so maybe I acted my anger and hurt out in an argument.

Quoting Baden

Don't be a dick and vote for yourself + sockpuppet voters instabanned. Voting closes on Aug 15th (Midnight UTC).

If @Baden can't see and fix what is wrong with this...I despair.

Right off, he addresses the authors, characterising them as would-be 'dicks'; cheats and losers.
Usual posters can guess it is a bit of banter towards friendly rogues but...it can come over as insulting.
It's a turn-off.

There. That's me done. There's too much attention paid to the clique, the usual suspects.
Don't you ever lift your eyes up and look at things from the perspective of a newcomer ?
Sheesh :roll:

Quoting god must be atheist

This opening reminded me of the Plenty of Fish dating site owner, who called his customers (some of them) jerks. That guy was repulsive, an a-hole and truly a dick. Why am I all of a sudden put in the same category, without even having moved a muscle?

But @Baden is not that repulsive, I don't think.
Just a bit of a stubborn bastard :naughty:

Reply to Amity

I thought it was kind of funny, but, ok, changed.

Quoting Amity

But Baden is not that repulsive,

I don't think Baden is repulsive, either. But calling me a dick site unknown (or sight unknown) offended me.

You must have misunderstood my statement, although it was very clear. I did not put Baden in the same category as the PoF owner put me. I understood, instead, that Baden put me in the same category as the PoF site owner. There was no value or character judgement on Baden. Especially not as his being repulsive.

One might argue that because both called me names, I put them in the same category. That is a valid deducing, but I deny that factually that's what my opinion is. There is the difference of repetition, and also the difference that Baden listens to suggestions and acts on some of them. There is the difference of Baden never deleting any of my comments, while the hated PoF owner and his croonies did that many times. There is the difference also that the PoF owner via his croonies banned me from his site, while Baden has not.

There are differences, which are numerous, and only one instance of an uncalled-for insult, vs. many by the PoF owner.

So you see, that one swallow does not a summer make. I don't consider Baden repulsive, as you understood, and my opinion stands with good reason.

Quoting Baden

I thought it was kind of funny,

Yeah, I know - as in pub banter with mates. I get it. But...

Quoting Baden

but, ok, changed.

Cheers :up:

Quoting Amity

If Baden can't see and fix what is wrong with this...I despair.

I thought it a kind cautionary tale, advising the participants what might befall them should certain acts be done.

Quoting Baden

Please don't vote for yourself + sockpuppet voters instabanned. Voting closes on Aug 15th (Midnight UTC).

Huh? I think I'll vote for myself. Nothing here suggests it'd be dickish to do that. So long as I'm not a dick, things should be OK.

Quoting god must be atheist

So you see, that one swallow does not a summer make. I don't consider Baden repulsive, as you understood, and with good reason.

Agreed. Sorry if I seemed to misunderstand you. I said it kinda tongue-in-cheek.
He is a :halo: and we all :heart: him :smile:
I'll shut up now.
:zip:

Quoting Hanover

Huh? I think I'll vote for myself. Nothing here suggests it'd be dickish to do that. So long as I'm not a dick, things should be OK.
9m

Freakin' knew this would happen.

Quoting Baden

Freakin' knew this would happen.

:rofl:

Quoting Amity

I'll shut up now.

NOOOO!! NOT NOW!!!

P.s. I appreciate your comments.

Quoting god must be atheist

P.s. I appreciate your comments.

Thanks.
I didn't realise you were one of the 12 authors :up:

Well, now that you ask nicely I won’t vote for myself.

In light of the fact I won't be winning this one, let's do another round right after. This one was a good warmup.

Reply to hypericin I'm light of me winning this one, let's quit while I'm ahead, shall we?

Reply to hypericin Reply to Benkei

So many questions. So much confusion as to who is an author. Personally, I'm flattered to have received even one vote.

Quoting hypericin

In light of the fact I won't be winning this one, let's do another round right after. This one was a good warmup.

What about y'all forget about the damned competition and 'winning' ?
What about just posting stories as you go. *
A story as an OP in a thread of its own and in the [s]Main Discussion.[/s] Lounge.
Why this hiding away in the Lounge - because they are not seen as 'philosophy' ?
Look at some of the Main Discussion threads.
There are stories of the authors' lives and opinions. 'I do believe' is a constant refrain.
When it comes to fiction where better to look.

Someone suggested that the short stories could better be discussed in the Main thread.
Just add the word 'STORY' at the title's end. And not be anonymous. Take the credit !
The glory and the honour :100: :party:

* you can do both :fire:
Rethink and strike out. No you can't. It's against company policy to have 'em in the Main.
Well, they are special, after all :wink:

Quoting Noble Dust

So much confusion as to who is an author. Personally, I'm flattered to have received even one vote.

Well, that 'confusion' needn't be the case.
Don't be flattered one little bit by the voting system. It's crap.
Be happy that you are sharing your story and people appreciate it. Even if not obvious !

Thanks :sparkle:

Reply to Amity :up:

Quoting Amity

What about y'all forget about the damned competition and 'winning' ?

Me have penis. Me like competition.

Seriously, winning is obviously meaningless. But the competition adds a layer of fun and motivation which is sorely needed in short story writing. It got me to write fiction for the first time in maybe 20 years.

Look at the excitement and interest here. Would that be present if people were just posting stories? No, not a chance.,

The anonymous aspect adds another layer of intrigue.

Reply to hypericin :smirk:

Quoting hypericin

But the competition adds a layer of fun and motivation which is sorely needed in short story writing. It got me to write fiction for the first time in maybe 20 years.

I agree that the competition is inspiring.
My point is that it needn't just be about having, measuring or waving a penis.
You should get it up more often...not just twice a year...or wait 20 :worry:

Seriously. Hiding flash-fiction in an anonymous comp is ri-dick-ul-us.
I think there's something you can buy for erectile dysfunction.
Who knew that TPF = Viagra ?

Quoting Amity

Why this hiding away in the Lounge - because they are not seen as 'philosophy' ?

Yes, that's why.

This is a fun contest and one I hope repeated, but a diversion from the mission of this board. We've uncovered a consistency between the philosophical mindset and the creative one when it comes to writing, and so comes the interest this contest has created, but it's still secondary to why we're here.

And for that reason, I'd propose that these threads remain forever relegated to where all red headed stepchildren must go: The Lounge.

Quoting Hanover

And for that reason, I'd propose that these threads remain forever relegated to where all red headed stepchildren must go: The Lounge.

So, all 'non-philosophy' threads >> Lounge.
Is that right ?
In that case, why is 'Shoutbox' up front and a header ?
Yeah, I know, just a quick'n'easy, lazy way to get together.
No need to go Second-Class Lounging :roll:

Quoting Amity

In that case, why is 'Shoutbox' up front and a header ?

It's all about moderation. The Shoutbox was on the main screen for a long while and then it got pushed off the main screen because it was felt it had become too prominent. Then it got put back to the front because it was felt it might add more a sense of community to bring it back. It's about finding a happy middle where there can be some diversions, but not too many.

The average person who shows up on a site called "The Philosophy Forum" would likely hope to see primarily philosophical discussions and may also be encouraged to stay after seeing what a fun group of people we all are.

Quoting Amity

So, all 'non-philosophy' threads >> Lounge.
Is that right ?

That is right or correct.

Quoting Amity

In that case, why is 'Shoutbox' up front and a header ?

Because there is a theory that along with pursuing wisdom comes the human need to trust each other enough to make ourselves vulnerable to share how people feel in addition to think.

Quoting Amity

So, I know, just a quick'n'easy, lazy way to get together.
No need to go Second-Class Lounging :roll:

I am sorry you are so bothered by the placement it was never meant to offend nor to be belittled.
As far as being "lazy"? I would ask you to expound on how it applies here.

Quoting Hanover

The average person who shows up on a site called "The Philosophy Forum" would likely hope to see primarily philosophical discussions and may also be encouraged to stay after seeing what a fun group of people we all are.

Right. I'm not sure that 'Shoutbox' does that. But whatever...
I think a newcomer wants to feel welcome and know how best to enter the discussions.
To stay around it takes a bit more...
But I've said all this before and even I'm getting tired of hearing my own voice :wink:
For me, it's a turn-off with a clique-y feel to it.
It's not all that important to me but clearly is for others.
So be it.

Quoting ArguingWAristotleTiff

In that case, why is 'Shoutbox' up front and a header ?
— Amity

Because there is a theory that along with pursuing wisdom comes the human need to trust each other enough to make ourselves vulnerable to share how people feel in addition to think.

I thought the shoutbox was mostly for jokes.

Note to self: remember to expose your fragile soul in the TPF shoutbox!

Quoting ArguingWAristotleTiff

Because there is a theory that along with pursuing wisdom comes the human need to trust each other enough to make ourselves vulnerable to share how people feel in addition to think.

How do you think that the 'Shoutbox' does that ?
It's just a long thread of rambling nonsense.
If there is a particular vulnerability there, I don't see it. Apart from maybe yours ?

Quoting ArguingWAristotleTiff

I am sorry you are so bothered by the placement it was never meant to offend nor to be belittled.

No, you really are not sorry at all.
And it's placement doesn't cause me offence.
It's just too trivial for that. It's a nonsense.

Quoting ArguingWAristotleTiff

As far as being "lazy"? I would ask you to expound on how it applies here.

I don't need to 'expound' anything. It's obviously easier and takes less effort when it takes centre stage and upfront.
Clearly, the fact that it was moved to the Lounge affected you greatly.

Think about that.

Quoting praxis

Note to self: remember to expose your fragile soul in the TPF shoutbox!

:rofl:

Quoting praxis

Note to self: remember to expose your fragile soul in the TPF shoutbox!

Already did so yesterday with the tricky riddle :lol:

Quoting javi2541997

Already did so yesterday with the tricky riddle

I felt your pain :fear:

Why can't we have our cake, and eat it too?

1. We could have a "short story" section, for ongoing posting, without competition
2. We could, concurrently, run two short story competitions per year. Administered anynomynously. Or whatever way that darned word is spelled. Incognito. Unknownly.

We could leave remarks for pieces in both sections.

Quoting javi2541997

Already did so yesterday with the tricky riddle :lol:

Yeah, about that, smoke can be both blanco AND negro.

Quoting praxis

blanco AND negro.

True. Both colours can be related to smoke. Here we say is just gris colour.

Reply to Amity

LOL. Well after 20 years I guess I need some textual enhancement!

More philosophically, I don't think its about dick waving, rather a gendered preference for competition. There is no reason at all not to have a non-competitive, non-anonymous story section. Sure there are other sites for that, but the community aspect would make one relevant here.

Quoting god must be atheist

Why can't we have our cake, and eat it too?

1. We could have a "short story" section, for ongoing posting, without competition
2. We could, concurrently, run two short story competitions per year. Administered anynomynously. Or whatever way that darned word is spelled. Incognito. Unknownly.

We could leave remarks for pieces in both sections.

You’re free to write to your heart’s content in the lounge area, providing you don’t offend any of the tender sensibilities of the PC Police, and at length of which could put War & Peace to shame, if you were so inclined. Someone would need to post it in your stead to facilitate anonymity, however. That may be a superfluous gesture though, as your character stands out like a sore toe.

These authors are causing the black fire of envy to burn. Not a good idea in these dry, dry times.

Are we allowed to say what stories we voted for? I missed the deadline, and, so, am free of suspicion of so-called "dick voting", but am curious as to what others voted for, in so far that they're willing to tell.

Quoting Amity

Don't be flattered

Quoting Amity

Be happy

Anything else I should or shouldn't be?

Quoting Noble Dust

Anything else I should or shouldn't be?

"Don't be a dick"
~ Baden

Reply to Noble Dust

You should definitely not take quotes outta context.
It makes me :sad:

You should stay just as you are. My favourite problem-solver :hearts:

Reply to praxis

Whoops!

Reply to Amity

Just messing with ya.

Quoting Noble Dust

Just messing with ya.

How very dare you :naughty:

Quoting Amity

If there is a particular vulnerability there, I don't see it. Apart from maybe yours ?

You clearly can see the vulnerability if you see it in me. :flower:

Quoting thewonder

Are we allowed to say what stories we voted for? I missed the deadline, and, so, am free of suspicion of so-called "dick voting", but am curious as to what others voted for, in so far that they're willing to tell

I don't have a dick to vote with but I am willing to disclose who I voted for if it's okay with the rules committee :100:

Reply to thewonder

There's no rule against it though I wouldn't want to encourage it either.

Anyhow, reminder that the poll closes in six days. I do encourage everyone to read all the stories and vote.

Reply to Baden
That doesn't seem like a genuine sanction. I guess that I'll wait a while on this, then.

Quoting Baden

Anyhow, reminder that the poll closes in six days. I do encourage everyone to read all the stories and vote.

:up: :100:
I hope everyone has enjoyed all of this, including story comments.
For me, it's been a worthwhile experience. Sharing interpretations and understanding. Brilliant !
Thanks again for keeping on keeping on :cool:

Hope to hear more from the authors once the voting is over...but some might not wish to identify themselves. That's fine too. Y'all are exceptional :hearts:

Reply to Amity
Thank you Amity!

Every author is an attention whore. You have been a most generous and gratifying Jane.

Wow, had I known this would be over esteem, I still wouldn't have written anything worth reading.

I'm rather surprised at the results so far...

I'm surprised the poll hasn't gotten more votes. I'll probably wait till the last minute because I've got skin the game and can't decide between 2-3 of the other stories I've enjoyed. Maybe others are dithering too. Maybe less than two dozen (out of how many active members on this site) give a damn about this contest. I hope the number of votes at least doubles the current "19" by the end (yeah I won't hold my breath).

Reply to 180 Proof

I fully agree with you (for once :razz: ) Hope to see to some last minute voters. :pray:

Reply to 180 Proof

Takes a while to read all those stories and vote. If we get two dozen votes or more, I think we're doing good.

Quoting 180 Proof

Maybe less than two dozen (out of how many active members on this site) give a damn about this contest.

Can you think of reasons why people don't care about TPF 'contests', far less the point or purpose of philosophical fiction writing ?

Quoting 180 Proof

I'm surprised the poll hasn't gotten more votes.

Many might have enjoyed reading some of the stories but have problems with such an unfair voting system. Some might just have an aversion to 'polls' in general. I can count the number of times I have cast a TPF vote on one hand. Also, it takes time to read, even if interested. Some might have read one - perhaps not to their liking - and decided to pass, other things taking priority.

Quoting Hanover

This is a fun contest and one I hope repeated, but a diversion from the mission of this board. We've uncovered a consistency between the philosophical mindset and the creative one when it comes to writing, and so comes the interest this contest has created, but it's still secondary to why we're here.

Had to laugh at the bit I've bolded. It's like TPF admin and mods have only just discovered the connections; the value of creativity in the philosophical process. That can't be the case. I think that it's a topic less explored, of apparent little value. It seems like the argument hasn't been made well enough. Perhaps, we're all too busy talking politics or religion...or posting the creativity of others.
Think Youtube videos...

There's plenty written on the philosophy of imagination and creativity; the concept of 'creativity'.

It might be secondary to 'why we're here' but creativity and imagination are in use all the time.
Think 'Thought Experiments'.
Ten here:
https://listverse.com/2016/07/15/10-weird-philosophical-thought-experiments/#:~:text=%2010%20Weird%20Philosophical%20Thought%20Experiments%20%201,has%20cast%20doubt%20on%20the%20idea...%20More%20

--------
Quoting daily nous: the creativity of philosophy

Creativity is very important to philosophy, and can be manifest in philosophy so many ways, but at the same time it seems less explicitly discussed, celebrated, or taught, in comparison to other important components of good philosophy, such as logical rigor or understanding what is at stake in a dispute.

Could we get a little celebration of creativity going here? Are there particular authors you value for, among other things, their philosophical creativity? Are there particular ideas or works of philosophy you think are good examples of philosophical creativity? And do you know of formal or informal attempts to teach philosophical creativity?

[ my bolds ]
Good questions, perhaps worth thinking about and discussing ?

--------
Quoting Shawn

Wow, had I known this would be over esteem, I still wouldn't have written anything worth reading.

Interesting perspective. What kind of 'esteem' concerns you ? Self-esteem ?
Or what is it about the TPF that you value? Your writing is out there for all to see. You care. But perhaps not about creative fiction writing. Understandable.

As a matter of interest, have you voted ?

Quoting Baden

Takes a while to read all those stories and vote. If we get two dozen votes or more, I think we're doing good.

Indeed :up:

About polls in general, what's the average amount of votes cast... roughly ?
Which poll, or kind of poll, engenders most attention and votes ?

Reply to Amity

Not sure, but my guess is we have a couple of hundred regularly active members. I wouldn't expect more than 10% of them to be interested enough to read all the stories and vote.

Reply to Baden
Ta for that - it kinda puts things into perspective.

Three days until voting ends! Then we'll announce the winning story and play "guess the author". :nerd:

Maybe guess-the-author would be more fun if, after the voting, we had a list of the authors.

Reply to praxis
Conspiracy theory:

@Baden hasn't published anyone's submissions and has authored all of these texts himself so as to score some writing tips.

Reply to thewonder

Indeed, there’s no telling what Baden is capable of.

Reply to praxis

Was intending to do it that way. :up:

Quoting thewonder

Baden hasn't published anyone's submissions and has authored all of these texts himself so as to score some writing tips.

Nice story. Maybe submit it for the next competition. :razz:

Reply to praxis
I think that guessing the author will be so much fun, but, of course, separating the author from their stories is probably an interesting area. Personally, even though I have whinged and whined at times, I do believe that this short story competitions has been such an interesting aspect for exploration. Even though I have only received one vote, and I hope that it was not a sympathy vote entirely, I think that this part of the forum opens up so many possibilities for the future, because it may be that fiction can express ideas which get can get lost in the logistics of philosophy. Perhaps, our own development of fiction writing and, creative writing in general, may help our skills and fluidity in philosophy and, contribute to fiction writing worth reading for its own sake.

23 votes, not bad!

Not enough votes for me yet. Where are all of the/my discerning readers? :sweat:

My story is too nuanced for a crowd of overly-logical philosophy dorks. I knew this from the get-go.

Quoting Jack Cummins

I do believe that this short story competitions has been such an interesting aspect for exploration.

Agreed, there’s a nice variety and they’ve taken me to some unexpected and interesting places. I’m a little surprised that Baby Shoes is the front runner, being the most fun but frivolous read, given the audience. Behind all the intellectual posturing, and just like Cindy Lauper said of girls, apparently philosophers just want to have fun.

Reply to praxis :rofl:

Well, I read everything a second time. I think what strikes me is that none of the stories are badly written. Some of them appeal less to me but that is mostly about taste, with some errors in some stories but I think those can be forgiven considering the short deadlines and people doing this for fun instead of as a job. It was fun!

How will guessing work? Obviously we can guess ourselves.

Reply to hypericin

:chin:

For the next contest can we do audiobooks? It's tiring to read them all.

Reply to Hanover

https://www.naturalreaders.com/online/

Just a quick copy and paste should have you on your way.

I've read all but 'A Weak Foundation' and half of 'Good Stew' and 'Hitchhikers', which I plan to before the end of the 15th. My 'favorite' not to say best at all is already in the lead. It's funny. The last time I heard someone go "pfft" I couldn't help but chuckle. What an arse. The author should be ashamed of himself.

POLL CLOSES TONIGHT AT MIDNIGHT UTC!

Reply to Baden

AHHHHHH!!!

Reply to Noble Dust

POLL CLOSES TONIGHT AT MIDNIGHT UTC!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

Reply to Baden

AHHHHHHHHHHH!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

WHAT'S THAT IN CET??!!

I blame my narrow win on the shitty pity votes most people got.

Reply to Benkei

WHAT'S CET?!!!!

Reply to Baden The time valid at the center of the universe, which moves around wherever I am. The bourgogne in this case. 32 degrees.

"Either win or learn."

I've learned there are some good writers on the site and I'll have to step up my game for the next contest. Maybe I'll learn more from the commentary and reviews that will help me to improve my story.

I think I've only correctly matched two stories with authors (benkei & Jack Cummins) so it'll be interesting to discover who the other authors are. Two stories in particular ("I Never Was" & "Dead Baby Shoes") I wish I'd written; however, I voted for a good one I'd felt deserved more votes than it'd gotten at that point. Early favorite "Stanley the Reindeer" I'd initially picked to win (if mine didn't win) after my first read through the rest. Good stuff, folks. Thanks! It's been fun. :up:

Reply to 180 Proof Oh my God. Stanley the Reindeer is the only story, after starting it three times, I didn't finish. Dead baby shoes is very well written until the guy who had money all of a sudden didn't have money. The surrealism of the story came across as gimmicky at some point as well. Those two things jarred me out of it. So I was left with the interesting development of two stories I didn't particularly like gaining so many votes. But as I said before, I have weird taste. So I ended with voting for Flight, which seemed to be a story about Covid-19 and the allegories fit very well.

Reply to Benkei

So I was right, you voted for Flight,
long before it was time, and in brief rhyme.

Quoting Benkei

So I was left with the interesting development of two stories I didn't particularly like gaining so many votes.

Such is the problem with knowing the vote count before all the results are in.

Quoting Benkei

I have weird taste

I kinda like mayo on french fries. But Heineken and wooden footwear, nee, dank u.

Still 6 hours to vote. One story still needs a pity vote and then everybody can feel good about themselves.

Reply to Benkei

Don't make Baden give every story a unique prize.

Quoting Benkei

One story still needs a pity vote ...

Glad mine wasn't for pity's sake but because the story at issue for me, however derivative, deserved some acknowledgement that it is nonetheless a fine effort. Weighted voting really is needed ...

Can we do another one right after? I have another story idea raring to go. Two actually! Anyone else interested?

The guessing will be more fun when we know each other's style.

Reply to 180 Proof Hmmm... I'm guessing A weak Foundation was your vote then.

Reply to hypericin Only if you didn't win.

Reply to Benkei I did not. Or... did I?

Quoting hypericin

Anyone else interested?

Yes! I interested if mods decide make another one. A poem contest could be interesting

Quoting 180 Proof

Weighted voting really is needed ...

We could totally do that next time. Just use an offsite poll.

Reply to Noble Dust

First prize is a cadillac. Second prize is a set of steak knives. Third prize is you're banned.

Reply to Baden I forfeit the prize because I don't like cadillacs.

Reply to Benkei No.

Quoting Baden

First prize is a cadillac. Second prize is a set of steak knives. Third prize is you're banned.

First prize is dinner with you. Second prize is two dinners with you.

Quoting Hanover

First prize is dinner with you. Second prize is two dinners with you.

Be careful what you wish for. :kiss:

Quoting hypericin

We could totally do that next time. Just use an offsite poll.

Yes, I'll definitely look into doing that.

Reply to Baden That would be great. I wanted to give points to stories that were really well written even though they resonated less with me.

POLL CLOSES IN 4 HOURS AND 13 MINUTES!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

Quoting Baden

POLL CLOSES IN 3 HOURS AND 13 MINUTES!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

Yeah, but there will be recounts, litigation, insurrections, and years will pass before we ever know who won.

Reply to Baden

Can’t afford the car insurance and I already have steak knives. I guess I’ll take the ban...? I’ll email you my acceptance speech so you can post it in my absence.

When do I get to know the author of the story I chose? I would really like to give feedback but it really should be in PM as well...it's adult feedback :fire: :heart: :flower:
15 years ago I edited a book that was published by an author in Australia so I can see there is weaving of ideas to be done but the raw ingredients are there :up:

It's a tie.

Exciting! Down to the wire!

POLL CLOSES IN 2 HOURS AND 42 MINUTES!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

*Edited for accuracy.

Reply to ArguingWAristotleTiff

Guess the author game begins after poll closes! Maybe directly, or maybe when I wake up.

We now have a 3 way tie...

Guess that means the tied winners will have to collaborate on one ultra depressing story the next time around.

Stanley will be on the doomed flight in his reindeer suit, dead drunk, with Dead Baby Shoes guy masturbating along Roadside, while they all plunge into some ocean.

Great stuff...

Reply to Noble Dust

The show must go on... :naughty:

Should the tie hold, a run off election is in order, or, a tie breaker new story must be submitted. Or, we wrestle for it. Naked. Except for a modesty sock. With a hole in the toe. Just brainstorming. Still open to other ideas. Jello. Grapes in it.

Never can guess what story I wrote.