A while back I posted on the topic of critique groups and asked the question: Which is better – online or in person?
I still say there are benefits to each scenerio and what’s most important is what the group has to offer and whether or not it’s going to be something that helps and encourages you with your writing.
I do belong to two fantastic online groups and will continue to stay an active member of each. The contacts and friendships I’ve made are invaluable.
But a happy circumstance came my way, in the form of a brand new writing group called The Write Way, formed by two gals who’ve written a couple of short stories together. The group turned out to be an ecclectic mix of writers interested in a variety of genres and styles. Our first meeting was a lot of fun. We filled out “all about me” sheets, shared information and talked about challenges we all face as writers.
So once a month, we will meet at our local book store. We’ll take turns reading our work and offering critiques and suggestions. We’ve already begun to share resources and celebrate each other’s successes.
The energy sparkled with the excitement each individual brought to the group and it really is nice to be able to talk face-to-face to others bitten by the writing bug.
So if you’re sitting in front of your computer wishing you could go and talk writing with other writers, you can do a couple of things:
1. Check with your local library and bookstore(s) for groups that
already exist. Go to a meeting and see what happens.
2. Set up your own writing group. It’s easier than you think.
So remember, although the act of writing is a solitary activity, you don’t have to feel isolated and alone.
