I had the pleasure of meeting with the Greenleaf Writers Group at the Semmes Library last Saturday. One member drives all the way from Bay Minette so you know it's a good group - that's about an hour or longer for those of you that don't live down this way.
We discussed one of the subjects near and dear to my heart: critiquing each other's work. As writers we tend to think that critique groups were created to torture us (and I have certainly felt the sting), but just think what might happen if your doctor didn't ask for a second opinion now and then. And you talk about a tough crowd: doctors. They don't hold back when evaluating each other's work. I know. I sat through years of quality improvement chart reviews. Ever work with an illustrator? They keep revising until the customer gets what they envisioned. But aren't we glad? Everybody wins in the end.
It's all about learning and growing in our professional pursuits. And remember to sandwich your criticism between two layers of compliments. Writers are a sensitive lot you know.
The Greenleaf group meets every third Saturday from 10 - 12 and are lead by Betty Spence and Geri Anderson. They meet at the Semmes Public Library on Mott Road.
We enjoyed having Mahala and C.J. at Greenleaf. They both are so in touch
ReplyDeletewith good writing and are willing to share their knowledge with others.
Come again and soon.
Betty Spence