If you’re an aspiring writer, joining a writers’ group can be a useful way of drawing experience from other writers, and gaining feedback on your own work. Here’s a few comments, based on my own (limited) experience on finding the right group for you.
Location:
You don’t want to have to travel miles to attend a group’s sessions, and there should be no need to. A quick Google found me a handful of groups in my local area, some within easy reach by public transport.
The venue is just as important as the geographical location. I know of groups that meet in libraries and pubs. Othe public buildings, or even members own houses could also be suitable venues. Whatever venue is used, it needs to be quiet enough for you to be able to concentrate on what you’re reading, discuss each others work, and large enough to accommodate the expected number of attendees.
What to expect:
The following is based on my own experience. I attend a group that usually has around four to six people at any time. At least half of us usually bring some of our work for appraisal. A reasonable number of pages to bring is around five. Double-spaced lines will allow others to add comments to your work.
If you find your work is being ripped apart, try not to get upset. This is all part of the learning process. One thing to remember, this is your story. Only you know how you want it to come across, so ignoring some critisism / advice is perfectly fine.
Try a few different groups, some may be better suited to your expectations or requirements. Groups will not mind you popping in for one session to ‘test the water’.
Joining a writers’ group may not be for everybody, but it’s definitely worth trying a few, even if it’s just for the experience.
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