Every meeting, we get to share good news - even if it's that we've started writing. Or finished another chapter. Or submitted a piece. We celebrate every step. Occasionally, I invite a speaker. Our speakers encourage and educate us. I make an announcement in advance if we are having a speaker. We learn from each other in a safe, loving atmosphere.
Our suggested dues are $30/year or $5/meeting.
Presenting is voluntary, not mandatory, for participation in this writers’ group. Writers offer up to three pages (no more) of double-spaced copy, 12 point font, for constructive criticism after reading their work aloud to their small group. If you'd like someone else to read your work, that is fine, too. If able, bring at least ten copies.
1. Reasonable Expectations. The purpose of a critique session is to offer a positive opinion, a different point of view or a helpful suggestion for the writer.
2. Consistent Goal. The goal of critiquing is to encourage each other to keep writing, keep trying, and/or to possibly attempt something new and different.
3. Nothing Personal. Constructive criticism should never focus on the individual writer, but give inspiration for their work.
4. More to Learn. Every writer and every person who critiques has permission to be imperfect, as an individual work in progress.
5. Tact and Sensitivity. Comments from your critique group will be gentle, but honest; never harsh or personal.
6. Written Words. After reading your three pages of copy, group members will write their constructive criticisms and return them to you for your edification.
7. Friendly Listeners. An oral reading to a group may be a high-risk venture for the writer, but you can be assured that you are always among friends, and you may have someone else in the group read for you.
8. Receiving Criticism. Generally, writers should not defend or respond with explanations about their presentations from critique group members. However, it may be appropriate to answer a few direct questions from the group.
9. After the critique: Unless you have a special working relationship with other members or have made arrangements in advance, please do not send out items for group members to critique and/or edit between meetings. We have editors who attend the meetings who charge for their services and would be glad to talk to you about editing.
10. All levels: We have writers in all stages of the craft from those who have never written to those who are multi-published, and we all learn from each other. The learning never stops - even for a best-selling author.
Map to church:
Healing Word A/G
Why don't you make it a goal to bring something for critique to our next meeting? I'd love to meet you. - Donna
