That New Story Smell

I recently finished a short story, one I really like. After letting my critique partners work it over, I revised the piece, shaved off 500 words, and now Ill start submitting it. What I want to talk about in this post is the wonderful, exhilarating experience of completing a new story and sending it out on its first submission. Lets dive in.

I like lists. Maybe youve noticed. So here are three things I love about finishing a new story.

The best thing Ive ever written. This isnt always true,...