Writers Together Flourish!

Writing can be an exciting pastime but a daunting career. There is the constant struggle to mold characters, enhance plot, and deal with concerns like theme, pacing, and arcs. Does it all flow together? Have you read it so often it's just an incomprehensible mishmash?

You don't have to do it alone. Find a critique group--other writers who understand the process and are willing to read and analyze your work.

You can find groups online or in person. Many writing communities offer opportunities for authors to get together. For instance, Sisters in Crime, and Romance Writers of America 

have subgroups that offer critique opportunities. Or you can search the internet.

If you want to meet in person, Google "writing critique groups" in your area or go to Meetup.

I started with an online group who's members were patient, kind and nurturing. When that group disbanded, I thought I knew everything about writing and entered an online auction, paying for an agent’s critique. I fully expected to become her client. I’m forever grateful. She kindly disabused me of my fantasy. Her critiques included backstory, head-hopping, no plot catalyst, and no stakes! I looked for another group. 

Using Meetup I met four diverse writers who became good friends.  Together, we improved my writing, and I published a short story.

When I moved to Florida, I used the Net to find a phenomenal new group, whose in-depth critiques helped me refine my technique and get a better grasp of my work. 

Constructing a story is an art. Thanks to my peers, I've learned to weave the strands together using economy of words, active voice, and tension.

Even though writing is a solitary profession, we don't have to isolate ourselves. Sharing ideas with a trusted cadre will not only enhance your skills, but present you with important new friends.

If you don’t have a writing group now, I recommend you find one soon.

Remember, Keep Writing!

REJUVENATE YOUR WRITING!

Want to ENTICE your readers, ENHANCE their experience, and DISCARD dull and boring? Check out this blog on FORCEFUL VERBS!  

New Year--New Disciplines

Fantasies bubble up inside me--ideas, beginnings, characters. Perfect for short stories. If only I could write them. I begin with zest, but the tale usually dies before it can reach a conclusion. A few have trudged on to "the End." Some have even received "Rejections," and one actually made it to an Ezine. However, too many sit in my files waiting--almost finished. 

With longer endeavors I do better. I have two complete novels ready to shop. A second in my series is perhaps a third of the way through. I'm a pantser, which means I write by the seat of my pants, learning the story as I go. I enjoy building my characters and setting. As the protagonist interacts with her world, the plot sorts itself out, unlike my short stories.

So, this year, I've decided to write down all the exciting ideas that pop into my head to look at later. Today I will discipline myself and concentrate on my manuscript, no matter how tempting the scenarios flitting through my head.

Remember, Keep Writing!

My writing buds!