Special Projects | Writers Support Group 2024
To You, From North London
This is about a monthly Writers Support Group, open only to Special Project patrons (like you)
After years of teaching writing, I’ve become increasingly aware that particular tips and techniques aren’t half as valuable as just being part of a group of other writers.
Writing alone can be, well, lonely. In a group, you have a place to share what you’re dealing with, find solutions, and hold each other accountable in a supportive spirit.
Thursday at 12.30 pm seem best for most people, but I’m willing to do a second session on Thursdays at 6pm. (Come to either or both.)
THE DATES
Thursday 26 September
Thursday 24 October
Thursday 21 November
Thurs 12 or 19 Dec.
The Zoom link
https://us02web.zoom.us/j/87940310140
Answers to some of your questions
Will other writers’ interests will overlap with mine?
Most people receiving this email are broadly interested in memoir, or stories about other people’s emotional lives.
How long will this run for?
I suggest a trial period of three months. If it’s useful and enjoyable, we could continue.
Will people bring questions?
Questions are very much welcome. I have a notion that I might also produce something on a theme myself, beforehand.
Will it motivate and stimulate?
If it doesn’t, I don’t want anything to do with it.
How big is the group?
I’m starting with just nine people, some of whom can’t do Thursdays. I plan to open it gradually to others. I don’t want a vast crowd of people I don’t know at all.
How much will it cost?
For now (trial period) I’m going to make it free to any patron of my Special Projects. If I find it’s a drain on my time or my energy I may need to introduce an additional charge after the trial period.
Do participants submit written work?
I much prefer to work in the moment with someone talking about the writing, and working out solutions for you to go off and write. I would strongly encourage participants to share work between yourselves.
Does it work if I’m mixing historical fact and fiction?
Absolutely. My view of non-fiction is that it works best when it uses all the elements of fiction.
Much as I think a writing group is an excellent thing I’m wondering if this is the moment for me [wrote one person, about to send letters out to agents]
It really doesn’t matter if you join this writers support group, or another very different one, but you may it hard going alone as you send out letters to agents and set up a website etc etc.
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