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On Writers' Groups and Useful Criticism 11/6/2016 3:10:45 PM
Since I moved to Toronto nine years ago, I've become familiar with several writers' groups. I've been especially interested in ones that give writers a chance to bring manuscripts for comment and criticism. There are quite a few in Toronto and that must be the case in other large cities as well.
I've learned that each group has its own way of running its program and each one develops a personality of its own. Members and visitors attend for a variety of reasons -- some want companionship, since writing is usually a solitary pursuit; some are looking for help to solve a problem with a piece of writing; some are happy to have the chance to display their prowess as critics; some look for confirmation that their work is satisfactory; some have learned how to take advantage of what writers' groups offer.
The writers' groups I've been part of usually have a leader to organize but no dominant voice. A welcoming, democratic spirit often prevails.
The discussions work best when they deal with technical aspects, the nuts and bolts of writing. I haven't heard much investigation of motives for writing or sources of inspiration or a writer's vision and larger ambitions.The practices of pop culture can be the leading influences.
A writers' group can serve to encourage just because it exists and can provide a push if inner impetus is flagging.
A visitor or potential member of a writers' group is wise to be cautious, however. Some people by nature veer toward the negative and can be blunt and insensitive, for they haven't yet developed the art of encouraging others. Some bring to the group an unvarying template of what they consider good writing, and work that doesn't measure up to their private ideals gets hammered. If given a chance, some folks will go on and on about a piece of writing until they've exhausted everything they can possibly say. And, of course, most everywhere we go, we find people who raise themselves up by belittling others or promote personal agendas or come with axes they'd like to sharpen.
My experience of writers' groups -- I've discovered another one in the past month, by the way, that looks quite promising -- has led me to wonder what standards would guide an ideal group. Its members would meet halfway the pieces offered for examination. Critics would set aside their templates and ask what a writer intended his or her work to achieve and help her or him reach the next stage of development. Criticism would be rigorous but generous and intending to lift up.
