Some writers might wonder about that, feeling as though, in today's world of social media bringing us Facebook groups, writers' forums, podcasts, newsletters, emails, and a host of other ways to connect, the need to regularly get together in person has become moot. Yet, in the heart of every reclusive independent, introverted writer lies the need for occasional community and a safe place to reveal our untested work, gush about craft, and re-energize with some kind of fuel besides coffee to take us back to the drawing board.
I am part of such a group and never underappreciate the mentorship the St. Croix Writers brings to my development as a writer.
"That's nice for you," you say. "I don't live anywhere near such a group."
If you don't, my heart goes out to you. Stay in those online communities, especially if you find one where you can give and receive feedback on your work. However, don't let it stop there. Try starting a writers' group if you can, even if you can only find one other person to act as your critique partner. Get together weekly if possible, and no less than monthly. Nourish your writer's soul.
If you do have the availability of a group near you, and you've hesitated to check it out, here are ten benefits that can be had by meeting together in real, live person with other writers on a regular (not-only-at-conferences) basis:
- Helpful Criticism. You will learn how to receive it and also how to offer it graciously. The thicker your skin gets, the more you'll learn about ways to improve your writing.
- Ideas. You will get new ones without even trying, because no matter how different another writer's work or genre is from yours, they will almost always mention or read something that will switch a lightbulb on over your head.
- Friends. You will make new ones from every walk of life and find lots to laugh about together. You'll bond with some folks so closely, you'll cry with them as well.
- Encouragement. You will be surrounded by people cheering you on and pushing you to keep submitting, including giving you ideas for ways and places to seek publication.
- Brainstorming Sessions. You will find like minds with whom to toss ideas around or to further develop an idea you're working on.
- Editing & Proofreading. You will occasionally be able to get help with the actual editing of your work, and in that process you will learn more about everything from active voice to plot construction.
- Audience. A writers' group is beta reader heaven if you want to know how readers will react to a piece. As an added benefit of great importance, you will see more changes you need to make as you read aloud, and you will also become a better orator and presenter of your work.
- Hard Facts. They will tell you if your piece stinks -- but they'll tell you very nicely -- sometimes so nicely, it might not soak in until later that a piece needs major work, but you'll be grateful you found out before you sent it off to an editor. Your group might even tell you why you shouldn't give up on a piece, no matter how rough it is.
- Events. If your group has enough regular members, you can host one another's book release parties, mini-conferences, and readings. Your group might bring light to a region where other would-be writers live and are searching for guidance in ways to begin.
- Snacks. There are always writers who believe in bringing cookies to everything. Don't underestimate the inspiration that comes with a good snack!
If you are looking for ideas to get a writers' group going near you, feel free to leave us a note. We'll try and give you some pointers.
Write on!
Our company, Capture Books, www.CaptureMeBooks.com will not even accept a writer's proposal if they have not submitted to critiques, drills, and efforts required to help others in the regular course of a writer's group. It is the first line to hardening off the introvert and becoming a presenter and entrepreneur that being a published author requires. And, young authors have to understand that they must share marketing interests and bolster others' efforts. Hybrid publishing is a group effort. "We don't need no narcissists!" This is the biblical model as well. Community.
ReplyDeleteLynn, that is such an excellent insight into why a writers' group is important. As a publisher yourself, you would truly recognize those benefits. Thank you for your much appreciated comment.
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