21 Texas Writing Resources
Posted by David Duhr in 
Next up in our State Writing Resources series is the massive Lone Star State, Texas. As many of you likely know, WriteByNight, though born in Florida, grew up in Austin, and so we had the chance to work with and get to know many of the institutions, organizations and publications listed below. We continue to work with the wonderful O. Henry Museum in Austin through our In Short Fiction Workshop, and a little digging on our staff page will tell you that a handful of our fine writing coaches and consultants hang their ten-gallon hats in Texas. We sure do miss y’all. We even miss saying “y’all.”
Presented in no particular order, here are 21 Texas writing resources, from conferences to local critique groups to literary magazines. If you are a Lone Star Stater or are planning to become one, these are some organizations you might want to take a peek at.
1) Dobie Paisano Fellowship Program
Provides solitude, time and a comfortable place for writers who have written significantly about Texas—as well as a four-figure monthly stipend.
A nonprofit organization whose purpose is to stimulate interest in Texas writing and to recognize distinctive literary achievement. Induction into the TIL is based on literary achievement. TIL also annually gives awards for published work.
3) American Literary Translators Association
Bridges cultural communication among countries and languages through the art and craft of literary translation. ALTA is the only organization in the United States dedicated solely to literary translation.
Formed in 1949, the society holds numerous contests, publishes anthologies and chapbooks, and offers public meetings that have featured some of the most influential poets and artists from Austin and beyond.
Acquires original cultural material for the purposes of scholarship, education and delight. Hosts many public events, including readings and discussions of contemporary and classic literature.
At each regular meeting, business is transacted and a program presented by a writer or critic of distinction. Poems by PST members are awarded cash prizes by a selected judge.
7) Wordspace
A nonprofit literary organization that supports literature in North Texas through author readings, workshops, concerts and salons.
A nonprofit literary center in Dallas, offering workshops, seminars, readings and discussions for adult and youth writers.
9) Gulf Coast
The literary magazine of the University of Houston. One of the finest journals in the nation, it publishes new fiction, poetry, nonfiction and reviews.
An annual conference in the Dallas-Fort Worth metroplex, it offers the chance for attendees to meet literary agents and editors, published authors, and other industry professionals.
11) Gemini Ink
A nonprofit, independent literary center in San Antonio, Gemini provides university and master-level classes, as well as readings, seminars and discussions.
12) Badgerdog
Writers of all ages and skill levels are invited to examine the techniques of literary artists and experiment with language to communicate experience and meaning. Workshops for kids and adults.
13) Austin Writers Meetup Group
Weekly discussion-based meetings, where writers bring examples of their current writing for sharing (read silently) and to spark discussion.
An annual festival bringing many dozens of writers from far and wide for readings, panel discussions, signings and much more.
15) Deadliners
A journalists’ social club and occasional journalism discussion series based in Austin, Texas.
16) Katherine Anne Porter Literary Center
A National Literary Landmark in Kyle, Texas, offering frequent readings by authors of note.
WOTA is a weekly radio show featuring interviews with writers and those connected with the Texas writing life.
18) A Strange Object
An independent press based in Austin, Texas, dedicated to publishing surprising, heartbreaking fiction alongside thoughtful ephemera.
19) Bat City Review
Under the auspices of the University of Texas, a literary magazine “bringing together the best voices in contemporary short fiction and poetry.”
20) Writespace
A Texas writing center in Houston, offering workshops, readings, and more.
A publisher and distributor that specializes in the development of independent authors and the growth of small presses.
Help us add to this list, Texans! Do you run a local writing group or a lit journal we should be aware of? Feel free to share info and links in the comments section below.
[…] finally reached the homestretch of our State Writing Resources series; after getting over the Texas hump we’re now barreling west toward Utah. Ah, ‘tah. Its motto is […]