Most people have a wonderful critique group they rave about. I am jealous of these writers. I recently joined SCBWI and have only attended two events. I haven't met anyone yet who is in need, as much as I am, of a group of writers to meet with and read with and talk with. I'd love to have an in-person group to hold me accountable, to hold my hand while querying, and to hold me while crying over rejections. I've been writing for five years, maybe closer to six, and for the first time, I'm ready to give up.
I have a handful of wonderful online friends who chat about writing and swap work and who support each other, and without these friends maybe I'd have given up months ago. But when I'm down, lately I find I avoid the internet. I also find that I avoid the internet and writing when life is really, really busy, as it almost always seems to be with work and three sons who are all involved in more and more events and sports, but I don't squeeze my writing time in as I used to. Or, maybe I'm just old and I need to squeeze in those five extra minutes of sleep where I didn't used to need to.
I also don't have the time I need to read the work of others, even when I want to so much, so then this let down, me letting down others, is an added feeling of neglect and failure. The feeling of failure is so much responsible for squashing the creative spirit.
Summer's just around the corner and I'm hoping for that burst of energy to edit and rewrite and draft, because even with my down-and-out spirit, I've got a new shiny idea...and maybe, just maybe, THIS will be the one.
I'm doubtful, but at least the idea is still there and my writing flame, though nearly, isn't completely extinguished. Not just yet.
How do you feel about in-person critique groups, online writing groups, online feedback forums, or even online reader feedback communities such as Swoon Reads?
Where do you find your inspiration, and what gets you most down?
You completely read my mind! I've been struggling with this same issue a lot lately. I adore my online writer friends, especially my CPs. I would have left cyberspace a long time ago if I didn't have them. But I totally understand the need for in-person meetings. I've yet to find anyone to meet with locally and I've been writing for almost seven years. I attended NESCBWI this past weekend, and I decided to email them and try to start a group near my location. You could always try that. I can let you know how it goes for me.
ReplyDeleteOh, and if we lived closer I'd totally meet with you. :)
DeleteSo...I've been dying to know how it went! I would LOVE to try to start something, but I may be way too shy and/or lack confidence. But if I lived near you, I'd totally join your group! Christy
DeleteI haven't been a part of a writing group since I finished my MA, and find myself a bit timid about sharing new work once again... It can really help you to develop, and also to actually finish things. Steering clear of the internet is a good idea, as it not only steals time, but also can make us focus on the wrong things (like how much better Everyone else is doing.) I hope you managed to find the time/inspiration to write. Thanks for sharing.
ReplyDeleteHa, so true about the internet! But I have met wonderful, inspiring people there too. I'm so glad you stopped by and left a comment. Thanks!!! Christy PS GREAT job finishing your MA...I keep starting my MS and then get sidetracked with having children, working, and this time...writing. Gah!
DeleteStaying inspired has always been troublesome for me. These days I'm taking it a day at a time, finding small things that inspire me and focusing on getting my butt in the chair for short periods of time--like 20 minutes. I listen to Elizabeth Gilbert's BIG MAGIC on a loop in my car because I find it so helpful in this regard. What really gets me down is how imperfect my words are, how they never measure up to what I want them to be. BiG MAGIC has helped me with that, too.
ReplyDeleteI think sometimes we have to expect words to suck, but to draft anyway, and know that the real BIG MAGICal writing may take place after sending it to crit partners and after we begin the revision process. And while I tend to only write when inspired, taking time to read, watch tv and movies when in lulls, in order to find success it's SO important to schedule the butt-in-chair, daily writing times like you do! Balance, always balance, eh? Staying connected with others is hugely magical and inspiring. Thanks for visiting and commenting!!! <3
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