This week I started a new writing group; a critiquing group. As I was introduced to each woman in the circle I recognized the familiar feeling of intimidation sneaking in (I felt this way in my first writing group too). We are all varied in the types of writing we create which brings a fuller mix to the group. Some of the genres being written are not my forte and I wonder what type of feedback I could offer that would be useful. This weighed on my mind as I drove home and what I’ve decided is simple. If I have something to say or offer I will and if I don’t, then I won’t.
My purpose in joining this group was to find other writers who would kindly and honestly help me stretch and bring the absolute excellence out of my writing. I have no doubt these women will help me to do that and hopefully I will help them in return. As for the intimidation factor, well that will pass, it always does. My desire to learn and grow is far greater than my insecurity and thank God for that!
I read out loud the opening page of my novel. This was the absolute first time I had done so and it was nerve-wracking. All the women provided solid feedback and positive input which was appreciated and affirming. What I wanted to know was, after reading this first page would they want to buy the book? All replied, yes they would. Now I can tell you, no one in this group wants smoke blown. If they like it or don’t like it, they’ll say so and why. Scary but great. I have plenty of people who will tell me my novel is fantastic because they love me and by default will like whatever I crank out, but that isn’t going to help me sharpen my skills. The point is to hear different perspectives in order to broaden my own, then decide which to apply and which to discard.
Today’s photograph is of one of the country roads in Falmouth, Cornwall that I walked along on my hike to town. The road appears to be deep in the country and yet as you turn the corner, the trees part to reveal a sparkling expanse of silver blue ocean. My writing journey is like this most enjoyable walk with unexpected surprises waiting to be discovered along the way. How much beauty and pleasure I would have missed had I given in to worries of getting lost, or of it being too strenuous or possibly unsafe? I feel the doubt and the insecurity but still keep walking forward. After all, I’d rather give it my all and risk failure than sit on the sidelines and wonder but never do.
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