“To be disciplined as a writer you need a compassionate and welcoming attitude toward your own work, and you need the support of others who value and call forth your writing.” Pat Schneider (Writing Alone and With Others)
I found myself thinking the other day… I need other people to share these draft pieces with. I want to explore these new bits of writing and I need the words of others round about me to inspire, motivate, connect, light a spark… Otherwise the words might never see the light of day.
In response to which I thought: perhaps if I need this, other people I know might just be feeling the need of it too 
So… I’ve set up an online writing group for the summer, creating the space for you (and me) to:
- share some pieces of writing (especially the ones you’re not ready to let go into the big bad world)
- tap into the energy and enthusiasm of others
- enjoy the support of others who ‘value and call forth your writing’
- explore and experiment, maybe, with some different styles and voices (in a safe space)
- develop and maintain regular writing practice over the summer
How it will work:
- A space (on Ning) to share pieces of writing and other materials (photos, reflections on process and so on)
- A small group (maximum 20 participants)
- A time limited programme (6 weeks) but long enough to develop writing habits
- Supported and facilitated by me (with some prompts, but generally just to hold the space)
- Cost: $30 / $20
- Dates: July 19 – August 30
It might not be quite the same effect as a full-blown writing retreat… but it’s still the chance to open the door to some new writing, to experiment and free up your words.
The door’s open. You coming?
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It looks like a good way to structure for success. I’ve seen a little rigor go a long way.
A wonderful idea Joanna! I think discipline is where we fall short as writers and sometimes the ego is just our excuse to push away instead of pushing forward. Not to mention that writing is a pretty solitary activity. Your summer writing space is just what people need to have the opportunity to step into other spaces. Cool.
Joanna,
Bravo for you! The collaborative setting is one that’s extremely beneficial to many writers. Some may enjoy writing solo, but as human beings we all need some kind of feedback and encouragement to do our best.
I’ve always done my best writing in that kind of environment and that’s why Wendi Kelly and I decided to use it to collaborate on our novel. In 4 months we had the first draft written.
When this medium – be it forums, blogs, email – is used to its fullest potential it’s a very effective writing tool. And you know what makes it so effective?
One word: Accountability.
When you’re working with a partner or a group of people, you can’t hide behind excuses to get it done. Little by little you chip away at each sentence, paragraph, chapter, section and before you know it, it’s done.
[...] Summer Writing Space: Online Group (confidentwriting.com) [...]
J.D. yes, me too, and the group dynamics – the mixture of accountability and encouragement often works wonders
Davina thanks, I’m hoping it will turn out to be a rewarding experience for all those involved
Deb hi, good to see you. I agree about accountability – can be the key that unlocks things for us. I have to confess I can’t actually imagine writing collaboratively and look forward to hearing more about the process you and Wendi used… as well as reading the book of course!
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[...] ~~~ If you could do with a bit of extra structure and support for bubble-bursting purposes, there’s still time to sign up for this six week online writing group. [...]