The Critique Group Part 2

Business DiscussionOkay. You’ve made the plunge and decided to join a critique group.

What should you expect?

One is respect for each of us as a person and as a group. Be on time at the beginning and at the end. Respect each other as people and as colleagues striving to be the best we can be. Treat each other as the professional writers we are.

In the critique itself, we should expect insights and ideas into our writing, particularly if there’s an aspect of the craft or the story we’re struggling with.

We want suggestions for help, not pronouncements from on high that their way is the only way to do it. Criticism 1Remember, as Somerset Maugham said, “There are three rules for writing. Unfortunately, no one can agree on what they are.”

There will be members of the group who will be stronger in some areas than others. Some will be able to point out plot problems. Others will help us see where dialogue can be snappier or characterization stronger. We need to draw on those strengths to improve our own writing. At the same time we all need to keep working on developing our craft and not depend on others to rescue us. A good critique can help us do that.

Ideally, one critiquer should not dominate the discussion. Many times, this person has their own agenda and looking to self-promote. This can stifle the growth of the group and the individuals.

On the other hand, one submitter should not dominate all the critique time either. My experience is that person is one who is least likely to receive criticism well. They can become defensive and argumentative and drain the energy of the group.

Happy PeopleA successful group is one that is we focused. One where the members support and encourage and challenge each other to grow as writers.

What’s the best critique group experience you’ve had?

 

 

 

 

2 Responses to The Critique Group Part 2

  1. Diane Bohannan September 4, 2015 at 12:09 am #

    This is AMAZING advice! Thanks so much for sharing, Henry! My best experience has been with my weekly critique group. They are the BEST! Like you said, everyone there has different strengths and suggestions. Being with them makes my writing stronger and my writing shows it. 🙂

  2. Henry September 4, 2015 at 1:56 am #

    I know, Diane. A group like that is a gift from God. One to be treasured and protected.

Leave a Reply

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *