23 August 2008 586 views 8 Comments

Have you ever participated in a local writer’s group? In some areas it can be challenging to find any group of writers who gather regularly let alone the right group to suit your individual needs. Thankfully, there are online communities that can create an ideal home, but can it compare to the camraderie and rhetoric that a group of local writer’s generate?

Becca from Write On Wednesday asks her readers,
“What would be your criteria for the perfect writer’s group?”


In the past I’ve searched for writer’s group that meet these five musts for my own needs:-

1. Meeting together an a convenient time

One of the hardest challenges when finding a local writer’s group is having the time available when others are gathering. For me this means trying to fit into hours when both my children are at school or finding a group that welcomes children. Do you prefer to gather for a morning group? Or an evening? Accomodating a time that suits everyone interested in joining the group can be difficult and this can be a good reason to create a group at a time that suits you.

2. A blend of experience levels

You certainly don’t want to develop a group of “Blind Leading Blind” novices. There also wouldn’t be much point to a group consisting entirely of writer’s who believe they know all they need to know. Developing a blend of experience levels gives members an opportunity to follow their mentors or aid mentees. More experienced writers can learn a great deal from those who are just finding their feet, and vice versa.

3. Similar genre or type interests

Those writers seeking poetry critique will find better advice from fellow poets. Those who write non-fiction may prefer to read other non-fiction. Genre specific writers may build a stronger foundation with other writers of the same genre. This is another good reason to begin your own group rather than join an existing one. If your preferred type or genre doesn’t have an exclusive group perhaps it is time to begin one.

4. A firm basis for acceptable critique

set the rules early. In a group environment it can be confusing if some writers rip in and others offer only polite nods. It is important to have a solid foundation for the kind and style of critique acceptable. Never join a group that is abusive or derogative to anyone. Your ideal writers group needs to share supportive, constructive critique with a balance of encouraging comments.

5. A commitment to encouraging growth and motivation

Just as you want to ensure a foundation for critique the lifts writers your group focus should be on the encouragement of growth and motivation. You should leave your regular gatherings with a renewed passion and drive to return to your individual writing. Share experiences, invite lessons, and push each other forward with love and consideration.

Finding a group that adheres to these five traits might be difficult. That doesn’t mean you cannot found one of your own. Find a location that suits your needs, arrange a time that works best for you, decide the type and genre you wish to focus upon, and write a foundation for critique and encouragement.

Show up for your writer’s meeting regularly. Meet with yourself. Advertise the group to others. Be welcoming as newcomers tread the waters of your group. It may be slow to grow but in time you’ll gather a sampling of writer’s who blend with your ideals and who bring a new element to each others work.

This new kinship is a true gift that will be cherished long into the future. From the humble beginnings of a writer’s group you all progress to greater things.

Have you found your ideal writers group? Do you have experience with starting your own? What is it you look for when gathering with local writers? What other local writing experiences have you enjoyed?

Are you a Western Australian Writer?
Every Thursday afternoon from 12:30pm until 2:30pm I gather at Seville Grove Library (formerly Westfield). I’d love to welcome other science fiction / fantasy novelists. Children are welcome, as are laptops.

Do you gather with an existing writer’s group?
Share your groups details in the comments so other local writers can visit!