Writing & Writing Groups
When I was an undergraduate, my college teachers told me that the goal of any English major was teaching literature. But when I got my first job, I discovered to my delight that teaching writing was interesting, challenging, and, well, fun. That’s why I pursued a Ph.D. in Composition Studies, and I still love working with writers.
Writing isn’t magic, but then, magic isn’t magic, either.
Donald M. Murray
My favorite books about writers and writing?
- Bird by Bird by Anne Lamott.
- Creativity by Mihaly Csikszentmihalyi.
- The Craft of Revision by Donald M. Murray.
- On Writing Well by William Zinsser
- A Writer’s Reference by Diana Hacker
Writing Groups
Why do writing groups flounder and fold?
Is it because the criticism is too sharp and feelings get hurt? In part. Perhaps. But the MAIN reason that writers groups fail is the lack of a full range of support.
As I elaborate in the epilogue to Bandersnatch, “Giving feedback doesn’t mean telling someone what is wrong and showing them how to fix it. Giving feedback includes a whole menu of thoughtful responses. Choosing the right response at the right time is key” (166).
Thinking of starting a writing group of your own?
Do what Tolkien did: begin with a book club. Read Bandersnatch together and begin the conversation about what kind of group you need, what the ethos will be, what schedule works best, and the rest. You might find the Bandersnatch Discussion Guide useful as you talk together and create your own collaborative circle. Several hundred groups have already gotten their start this way!’’
The Portfolio Life Podcast
Listen HERE to an interview with Diana Glyer on “The Portfolio Life,” a podcast about taking care of your creative life hosted by Jeff Goins, author of You are a Writer.
I am currently collaborating with Abigail Dengler on a series of books called the Writer’s Foundation series. Here are the working titles and descriptions:
There are four books in the Writer’s Foundation series. Each one stands alone, ready to help writers with the specific guidance they need. But together, this series will not only inspire accomplished writers; it will also provide a strong, clear foundation to help beginning writers find their way.
A Writer’s Process: 5 Steps to Take You from Blank Page to Finished Manuscript
How does the spark for a writing project become a completed work ready for publication? This five-step roadmap helps writers overcome the enemies of their creativity and avoid floundering in self-doubt and procrastination. Ready to make real progress? A Writer’s Process will equip you to power through any type of writing with direction, clarity, and confidence.
A Writer’s Priorities: 8 Questions to Improve Everything You Write
You’ve got a draft—now how do you get it to match the vision in your head? Where do you even start? Tested by professors, editors, and writing centers, A Writer’s Priorities presents a systematic framework for quickly identifying aspects of a draft that need attention. Maximizing time and focusing effort, this clear and practical framework helps writers see their work in a new light and take steps to make any piece of writing as effective and compelling as possible.
A Writer’s Remedy: 31 Days to Beat Writer’s Block and Get Back on Track
How does a writer persist through setbacks, disappointment, frustration, aimlessness, and fatigue? Dead ends and discouragement are normal—but they are also manageable. A Writer’s Remedy serves as a companion to get you through creative slumps by providing short daily doses of motivation, wisdom, and support. Gift this to yourself or to another writer in your life.
A Writer’s Circle: 7 Ways a Writing Group Will Bring Your Creative Vision to Life
We think of writing as a solitary activity—but does it have to be? Much like the famous Inklings, experienced writers know they need the encouragement, correction, and practical help of others in order to persist through the challenges of the writing life. A Writer’s Circle presents a simple process for creating a system of support so that both you and your writing can thrive.
