tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7799074988187934533.post8210941810523298885..comments2023-10-16T01:36:56.847-07:00Comments on Events & Blog: Thoughts on writingBetty Webbhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06371299864940822406noreply@blogger.comBlogger1125tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7799074988187934533.post-11342001964514207132008-09-01T12:24:00.000-07:002008-09-01T12:24:00.000-07:00Betty, I certainly agree with you about the useful...Betty, I certainly agree with you about the usefulness of critique groups. A few additions and quibbles: <BR/><BR/>I don't see them as alternatives to classes, but as additions. We need both to keep upgrading our skill level.<BR/><BR/>One crucial feature of a writers' group (to me, anyway) is that it offers more than critiques. We call the group I helped establish "a mystery support group". Yes, we critique but we also ensure that we each get enough encouragement to stay in the game. We all began as beginners in the field (seven years ago) and we needed fertilizer as much as we needed pruning.<BR/><BR/>You mention the fact-checking aspect of critique groups and also the deeper structure of character. I've seen our group evolve from pointing out typos and dubious facts toward a focus on plot, character, and voice. We've become more useful to one another as we develop. And the only way to develop is to keep writing.<BR/><BR/>My first mystery, Night Kill, is almost out, which never would have happened without my critique group!Ann Littlewoodhttps://www.blogger.com/profile/08646388677233865578noreply@blogger.com