New Writing SouthStarting a Writing Group
The following tips are based on practice that has helped writer’s group we know become long lasting, supportive and vibrant.
1. Be
clear and agree your aims from the start.
These may be very
obvious but it's good to be very clear aout them. Your aims
may include: reading and commenting on each other’s
work, supporting each others work and careers, offering encouragement
when individuals are disappointed and to rejoice at each
other’s successes!
2. Limit
your numbers.
Too
big a group and you may find it difficult to read and comment on each other’s
work - if that is one of your aims we find that between 4 and 6 work
best. Also remember that some members may drop out so it doesn’t hurt
to have a waiting list.
3. Arrange
to meet regularly.
A
regular date, such as the first Monday in every month, is easy for everyone
to remember and mark in their diaries for months ahead. And keep to your arranged
dates - if one or two members can’t make it go ahead without them!
4. Keep
to one venue.
Arrange to meet at the same venue each time. Good habits are
best formed if you keep to the same routine. Meet at someone’s house
or at a venue such as a library or theatre or room above a pub.
5. Share
any costs.
Sounds obvious but do not let one or two members of the group pay
for everything.
6. Agree
rules that are fair to everyone.
At
your first meeting you may want to agree the following:
- If you are going to read each other’s work in advance agree a deadline by which to circulate texts to fellow members.
- How to do this - printed form or e-mail attachments.
- A set time slot for every member. (For example if you have four members and meet for 2 hours you may want to give everyone 25 mins each and allow for a 15 mins tea break.
7. Keep New Writing South up
to date
We can
list your group on our web site, offer script readings, visits,
help with rehearsed readings and keep others informed of your
activities.