#5: You can write outdoors year-round. Sure, it's hot in the
summer, but all you really need is a tank top and some shade. An iced beverage
helps, but is not essential.
#4: For various good reasons, Florida attracts vastly more than its
demographic share of criminals, degenerates, and trashy imbeciles. Thus you
need go no further than the radio, newspapers, and billboards to find terrific story fodder.
#3: Florida levies no state income tax, useful for when you
become a multi-millionaire from your writing.
#2: Beta-testing your writing aloud is easy in Florida. Drive in
any direction for five minutes and you will encounter an assisted-living
facility. Walk in, find the rec room, and start reading. You will have an
attentive audience. If you actually do get feedback, it'll be honest.
#1: The state has wonderful groups and organizations for
writers, especially the Florida Writers Association. The first time I went to
the annual FWA conference I was a presenter—and a stranger. Afterward, I had
new friends. Most of all, I was impressed by the
we-are-all-cheerleaders-for-one-another spirit I found there.
Tomorrow and Saturday I'll be presenting at FWA's
mini-conference in Bradenton, as will other experienced workshoppers from
around the state. Gobs of aspiring writers will be there! If you stop by, I bet
you'll make friends too.
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