Looking for a different sort of writers’ group?

Many writers’ groups enjoin members to write a short story on a set topic and then read it aloud at the next meeting where typically it is greeted with polite applause and little or no critical appraisal.

Such a format suits many people, as it provides motivation for them to pursue their chosen hobby in a supportive environment, as well as an opportunity to connect with others likewise engaged in the (generally) solitary pursuit of writing.

An alternative milieu offers writers a more constructive — albeit more challenging — engagement as they grapple with the complexities of their own projects over a prolonged period. The aim is to help each participant complete their chosen project as proficiently and efficiently as possible, in the process fostering their mastery of the craft and nourishing their writing life. Of necessity, this type of group is quite small, with no more than half a dozen members.

I have been involved in a couple of groups of the latter sort and would be interested in forming one here in Devonport, Tasmania. I have a wide variety of experience in the field of writing, including editing and judging literary competitions.

If you are about to embark on a serious writing project, or are not too far into one already, and think this sort of group might be helpful for you, I would be glad to hear from you. (See contact details on the Home page of this Website.) Writers of short stories, novels, screenplays, non-fiction, Web pages — all welcome. No costs involved. Venue to be determined.