How to Have a Healthy Relationship With Your Writing Group

“Over a decade ago, in one of my first college writing workshops, I commented that a story’s eclectic vocabulary jarred me out of its narrative. The author’s suave, privately-schooled best friend was in our class, and he volleyed my critique back: “It would’ve taken seconds to look up aquiline on your iPhone.” I had a meager public school education, primitive flip-phone, and no desire to admit this. Though our professor swept us on to more productive feedback, I remember the skirmish vividly. Any space where artists are giving and seeking feedback is fraught with misdirected criticism, volatile alliances, and layers of shame. But this winter, as my Paris-based novel writing group celebrated our one-year anniversary, I told my four fellow writers they’re my healthiest relationship. This is not necessarily because I’m destined for literary polygamy, but because my cohort and I have co-created a supportive, productive dynamic. If you’re seeking or participating in a writing group, here are five ways to make it a healthy writing group relationship…”

Article about embracing diverse thoughts, giving freely, and embracing the creative process.