How to Find a Writing Community

We all know that writing is a solitary craft but you can only go so far on your own. What I mean is that the act of writing, revising, and sending work out is often done in the privacy and quiet of your own solitary space. But there are many other aspects of writing that require other people.

For one, procrastination is a huge issue with writers. We are often trying to set deadlines that we want to adhere to but often when it comes down to working on a piece, we find many voices popping in our head saying that we should clean the house, buy a new outfit, or walk the dog.

Accountability is the best reason to find writing partners and writing groups. The best way to start finding a writing group is to take a class in writing. This does not have to be a college accredited class unless you want to it to be. There are plenty of art communities and workshops for non-students. You can find these in the weekly entertainment papers as well as online through Craig’s List or by googling writer’s workshops.

After taking a class or two with others, you can get a sense of who might be a good fit for a writing buddy or group. Try to find people who can be honest and compassionate at the same time. You do not want someone with a great critical eye but is blood thirsty to hack your writing to pieces.

Another place to find writing buddies is through readings and lectures. Peruse your weekly paper or local literary or art magazine and see what readers suit your fancy. It could be a poetry reading or a lecture on craft. When you at these meetings, talk to people and see what their interest in writing is. Then ask them to meet up for coffee and also share some work.

You can also place an ad in your local paper or websites asking for people to meet and talk about and share writing. Libraries are also a wonderful place to meet other writers. They often have times and schedules set up for different genres of writers.

Get support and find a community of writers. It will improve and inspire your writing.