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Write in a Writer's Group
I had been writing for two decades before I realized how much I
needed the companionship of other writers with like minds. All
that time, I was thinking how neat it would be to talk to other
writers, but I had no idea that writer's groups even existed.
Since the advent of computers and my own education in using
one, I now realize what I was missing all those years. Only
when I am with other writers do I feel really understood.
Here are seven good reasons to join a creative writer's
group:
> Finding other writers is extremely
encouraging. You can talk in forums, by email, or chat
privately.
> You will find a plethora of activities to
engage your talents.
> There will be lots of writing contests,
and this is one of the best motivators there is.
> You can get creative and make greeting
ecards, banners for others who have a business, and unique
graphic signatures.
> You can strike out on your own by
creating a business, or help someone else in theirs.
> Being part of a writing community gives
you awesome opportunities to search out latent talents and
bring them to life. You can create contests (or help others who
create them). If you like graphics, you will have a wonderful
opportunity to sell them and gain exposure.
> You can post your stories on the net.
Other writers will critique your work, and you will critique
theirs in return. The more detailed your critique, the more
they will appreciate it. Tell them if they miss a comma, or
should have used a semi-colon; tell them if their plot was thin
or the scenery didn't convert to an image in your mind. This is
what they need to know to improve their performance. By
interacting in this way, you will soon learn what is good and
bad writing, and what you want to emulate, and what you should
avoid.
By this simple but effective method, you can improve your
writing by leaps and bounds. When receiving critiques, remember
that the person giving it is trying to help you. Don't get your
feelings hurt by someone criticizing your favorite story. On
the contrary - use 95% of their suggestions for editing, and
then put the story out again for more reviews.
The largest majority will thank you and invite you back for
more reviews. Others will get their feelings hurt, so be
tactful and gentle. If you don't know how to review stories,
the site will have a guide for it.
I have visited many writing sites. The one I endorse is
Writing.com, as it is one of the best established writing
groups on the net. Membership is free. It won't take you long
to settle in, as you will have lots of help.
The Bible says if a person would have friends, he must show
himself friendly. Whether or not you believe the Bible, that's
good advice, so don't wait for someone to reach out to you. You
reach out to them.
by Deborah Owen - 11th November 2008
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Ms. Deb is the CEO and Founder of Creative Writing Institute.
As a non-profit organization and the first fully mentored
writing school on the net, CWI offer can offer writing classes
at a 40% discount. Drop in and see for yourself: http://www.creativewritinginstitute.com
Source: http://creativewriter.me.uk
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