It Takes A Village: Sometimes

 

Maybe one of a writer's greatest fears is that what they have written is not as good as they thought? I've written many stories where I had a good characters, and an interesting story line, but then wondered whether I was kidding myself. Perhaps it wasn't all it was cracked up to be. 

 Is it possible I am not as brilliant as I thought I was? 

So, what to do?

It isn't rocket science to see we need a second opinion, and a third and maybe a dozen more. Sure, we can ask friends to give it a read and see what they say, but that's likely going to be a wee bit biased, and make a whole bunch of people uncomfortable.

How about finding like-minded people to look over your work and give their take on it? That's the ticket.

The best way to do that is to join some writers groups. 

Currently I have two groups that meet once a week, to read, listen and critique each other's work. 

There are also lots of authors groups on social media such as Facebook, Linkedin and TikTok. Here you can just sign up, and join in when you see fit.

These are platforms where we can share stories, ask for advice, give suggestions and basically share our passion with others. It's a place for people to encourage each other and perhaps help them get back on track when they feel they are losing their writer's mojo.

I haven't mentioned specific groups, because honestly you need to do a bit of homework and check them out for yourself. They may not always be your personal cup of tea, and what I find helpful you may find smug and pedantic. 

Members may be well meaning, but they don't get your style.

The main thing is to find a group that you can trust to be honest and give helpful suggestions. 

Even if you don't agree with many of the comments, you may find new insight which helps you turn what you've written from being just another story, into a masterpiece.

John Donne said no one is an island. We can all use a bit of help and support, and if you find a solid group of writers who are serious about bringing out the best in each other, you've found gold.

There is a caveat, some people use an authors group the platform as a kind of speaker's corner. You'll know who they are soon enough and realize they aren't worth the time. 

In the long run though, when you find a compatible and helpful group, with whom you can share your writing, you will feel the benefit. Plus, you will be helping others to pursue their love of writing as well.