The Value of Writer Groups

I love my job. I love being able to roll out of bed, grab a cup of coffee and work in my own little office. No nosy co-workers, no unreasonable boss, no strict hours. I work how I want (messily), when I want (16 hours one day then the next day off) and where I want (on my veranda when the sun shines.) I can't imagine ever returning to the 9-5 world of commutes and cubicles, being told what to do and how to do it, and being restricted to a limited area of interest.

But there is a lonely side to working from home. There have been several times when I found myself lacking a group of peers to talk to, go to for advice, share experiences and just generally chat with about our chosen career.  Being a writer has shaped my life, and I constantly found myself wondering about how other writers work, learn, live.

That is why writers groups and online writing communities and forums can be so valuable.  Not only can you get help and feedback on your work,  but you can also find a sense of belonging and support  from other like minded people.   Truman Capote famously said “When God hands you a gift, he also hands you a whip; and the whip is intended for self-flagellation solely.”  As a writer, he knew that as creative people we have a tendency to be overly self-critical,  and talking to other writers is a great way to counter act this destructive habit.

Writers groups definitely aren't for everyone.  Yet for many writers then can be a fun way to share their work in a social way. Sure you can show your manuscript to your friends and family, but can you rely on them to be honest?  Will they look at it from the perspective of a writer, as well as a reader?  In a recent  issue of The Writer Eric Witchey explains the different types of criticism and how they can be valuable to improving your work, but notes that friends and family can be unreliable critics, as they lack the specific language to help you make changes.  While both types of feedback are great, comments from writers can give you a more constructive framework to hang any re-writes on.

Feedback from writers doesn't need to come from meeting face to face.  There are many great writers forums online where you can share your work and ask for comments.  This process can be immensely rewarding as you read encouragement from readers,  but you will also need to put on your thickest skin in preparation for sometimes rather blunt honesty from your peers.

Online writing communities and forums can also be a valuable source of information on just about every aspect of writing, from sharing experiences with specific editors or publishers, to finding interview subjects for an article.

Remember to follow the rule of give and take at any writer forum, and offer your advice and help whenever you can.

Visit our Writing Links page or Resources section for more information about online writer communities.