On Being a Groupie

I admit it; I’m a groupie! When it comes to writing, I believe every author needs at least one group with whom to share their words and stories. As much as we strive to write our best, our attempts will fall short without the input of others. Sure it can be frustrating to think I’ve done a fantastic job only to discover that much of what I thought I said got stuck in my head and didn’t make it to the page.

I have the good fortune to belong to two critique groups and also have writer-readers who give me feedback. I consider each critique from these amazing people and as if they were reading my finished work. Their reactions, comments, suggestions let me know where the holes are my story as well as when I’ve beaten a topic or a word to death (and didn’t nootice).  It ruffles my feathers at times when I was so-o certain I’d gotten it all in: right words, right emphasis, write perfect. Knowing they care enough to spend time  on my words soothes those same feathers back down.

The bottom line: embrace your critique group and early readers. Fix your errors, listen to and evaluate their suggestions and know they have your best interests at heart.  I know my groupies do!