I joined a group through the adult education classes in my community that is based on Pat Schneider of the Amherst Writing Group’s approach. We do writing exercises during class, read them aloud if we feel comfortable doing so, and then provide positive feedback. We say what we like about the pieces or what stays with us about them. We don’t critique unless someone brings something in and asks for a critique.
The session is over but I think we are going to keep the group going. I really like this approach for people like me who need a little jumpstart on actually getting some writing done. I need to work on the habit of writing first and not worry about people ripping my stuff apart (I do enough of that to myself!). I highly recommend Pat Schneider’s book “Writing alone or with others” as a starting point for people who want to start a supportive writing group where you can feel comfortable opening yourself up to a group.
