Three types of writing groups, part 2

In my last post, I wrote about the benefits of joining a critique-style writing group. Another popular type of writing group is one that is focused on the writing.

Writing-Focused Group:  I’ve been involved in a few writing-focused groups, where we typically write to a 20- to 30-minute timer and then read our words aloud afterwards. Sometimes, I use prompts. Sometimes, I just write whatever needs to get out of my head. A Seattle-area group is run by authors Jack Remick and Robert Ray who are advocates of the Natalie Goldberg style of free-writing. There’s something about writing with a group of people that’s magical–to sit side by side doing the work helps me stay in the flow of my words. 

If you don’t have a writing group like this in your area–start one! My friend, Georgann Turner, a Bainbridge Island writer, is starting one using the AWA method which is described in founder Pat Schneider’s book Writing Alone and With Others. If you’d like to write with Georgann, learn about her future workshops, or learn how you can start a group in your area, contact her through her website.

To read Part I of this series, please click here. My next post will feature a third type of writing group.