Using a Writer's Group
Pros and Cons of Having a Writing Circle
For some authors, deciding whether or not to join a writer’s circle or group can seem like a daunting task. Some professionals claim they are the only way to go, while others insist they are nothing more than a hindrance.
What a Writer’s Circle Can Do
One of the major upsides to having a writer’s circle or group is that there is always someone objective to look over new drafts. That fresh pair of eyes will be able to spot small mistakes like repeated words, poor grammar, typos, and spelling mistakes. They can tell if an idea is good and if the writing flows properly.
It is also nice to have a group of like-minded individuals who can support each other. They can become like an extended family and often good lifelong friendships can be made. Authors often don’t get a pat on the back at home when their writing is accepted. For authors published in a writing group, each success, feels like an achievement for the whole group.
Is inspiration for a new work flagging? Not to worry here either…just visit the writer’s circle and in minutes, ideas start to buzz around the group and everyone is inspired.
The Cons of Writing Groups
Of course, there are some drawbacks to writing groups too. Each group, just like each author is different and sometimes if the group has been together for a long time, their work can be very ‘samish’ and dull. Style can be almost regimented and each new writing voice, stinted.
When groups members don’t understand a new style of writing and only insist on style they’re familiar with, new members can feel like their creativity has been squashed.
Then next possible problem is location. If the group is a distance away, then it might cost more than the sale of a short story to get there each meeting, although, this is never a problem with e-critiquing.
Also, if a writer is spending more time critiquing another member’s work than working on their own, there is a problem. When that happens, the author who had high hopes of honing his or her work has suddenly been thrust into the role of editor. While this may hone their skills, it still detracts from the main purpose of the groups; which is to create fabulous writing.
Making the Choice
Really, deciding whether or not to join a writing group depends on each individual author. Some find having a writing group like a support group. They can be an extended family that celebrate the wins and feel sorrow for the rejections. And of course, it’s good to have so many extra pairs of eyes when reviewing a new work.
The best way is really to try it. Don’t be put off by the thought of other authors stealing ideas as even in the largest of writing classes; when given the same idea, each student will come out with something totally unique. Give it a couple of months, and then decide what best suits.
Be Part of a Group
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