Thoughts on Writing Groups

 

November Day

One of the things writers are urged to do is to join a writing critique group. It's beneficial to spend time with other writers and to discuss various parts of the writing life with people who are going through some of the same situations you are. Another reason to join a critique group is to have other eyes on your work. We are so wrapped up in our own writing that we often overlook crucial bits and pieces when we edit. Someone else will see much more. Perhaps because they are not emotionally involved like the writer is. We also benefit from hearing praise from others who read our work. We want to know what to fix, but we also like to be aware of what parts particularly appealed to readers in the group.

What kinds of writing groups are there, and what should you look for before joining one? Two big questions.

Kinds of Writing Groups:  In face to face groups, people meet together in person at a designated place. It might be a book shop, a library, a coffee shop, or in someone's home. These groups meet on a regular basis, either weekly, monthly or something in-between. They can be very social as well as focusing on writing. Usually, one person is the leader, or moderator. 

Many format a list of simple rules while others will have fairly rigid restrictions.  Some groups put a time limit on reading your work aloud. Others will let you be the judge of how much time to read your work to the group. Some groups ask that each writer send their selection ahead of time to the members so they have a chance to think about your writing. Others ask that you have copies to hand out at the meeting, while still others require neither--a listening process only. 

Another choice is an online critique group. These groups are usually ongoing, not meeting together at a specified time. Each writer submits work to be critiqued. Then anyone in the group can offer a critique. Usually, there is a requirement that you cannot only submit your work but you must offer critiques, as well. Some groups have a set number of each, while others leave it to your discretion. If you join an online writing group, there are bound to be some rules. Go over them carefully before you make the commitment to join. Make sure you think you can fulfill the requirements. 

One benefit of an online group is that you have the comments and suggestions, often within the text, to refer to as you revise and continue editing. Another is that you have a wide range of people in the group, often from all parts of the country, or even the world. People in groups like this often help one another in suggesting a market for a story or essay or poem. 

Some online writing groups are open to anyone. There are no admission requirements. Others ask for a writing sample and a short resume of your writing life. Sometimes, the moderator votes yes or no, and in some groups, the entire group reads the application and then votes. And yes, majority wins. If you have to apply to join, don't shy away. Do it with the thought that if they say yes, the group thinks you're ready for that level. If they say no, it's not a nasty dig at you. It just means this was not the group for you

There are writing groups for beginners, intermediate writers, and advanced. It would be helpful to determine which type of group the one you're looking at is and if you feel you qualify for whatever level it might be. 

What to look for in a writing group:  If you find a writing group and join, there is no assurance that you are going to love it. You might have to try a few to find one where you feel comfortable, and that includes both in-person groups and online. 

If you join a group that gives you nothing but praise, start looking for another group. You join a critique group to grow as a writer, to learn the places where you need to improve. Certainly, the praise is appreciated, but you need more than that. It's your job to join a writing group with the attitude that you are there to become a better writer and want to learn how to do that. 

You want some structure in the group. A short list of rules and what is expected is helpful for all. Some groups will ask that you do two critiques for every submission you make. Some will ask that you submit at least two pieces of writing per month, or one, or three. They're all different. A good moderator will make writers adhere to the rules, but they'll also take life problems that keep a writer from fulfilling the commitment into consideration. 

You'll want to look for a group that fits the kind of writing you do. There are groups of all sci-fi writers, some that are for romance writers, and others for mystery writers. Still others are a mixed group of many genres. 

If it's an in-person group, keep distance in mind. If you find one an hour away, the weather might be a hindrance. Can you afford the two-hour drive to and from? 

Keep in mind that you might not love every person in the group or that the moderator might not adhere to the rules very well, losing control over time allowed, and more. If it happens, and it bothers you a great deal, then it's time to look for a new group. You can also start a new group yourself. Don't laugh. It's not as difficult as you think. 

Do an annual assessment. Ask yourself what you are getting from the group and also what you are contributing. Being in a writing group of any kind is definitely a give and take situation. You must be willing to do both. 

Finding a Writing Group:  Ask another writer for suggestions. Check at your local library. I found an in-person group that way. Ask on social media. Use a search engine to find online groups. Check with any local or state writing organizations. 

My online writing group has helped me polish many a piece of writing which has gone on to be published. I take every one of their comments and suggestions seriously. I know that they are not being critical. Instead, they are helping me learn and grow as a writer, and I try to do the same for each of the members in the group.