Well, we got through our first meeting of the Narratives Writers’ Group last night, and it went quite well. (Thank you, Loretta, for your advice on the rather insane entry below!)
It’s difficult to get a group of people together, even those who share a common interest because each individual has a different take on the subject, as in this case, writing, as well as how much they expect to participate or how much effort they are willing to put forth, as well as what they want to get out of that inclusion personally. And a point to be made here is that it’s okay to look out for self-interests in this case. This isn’t a group dedicated to helping others—although that is certainly a usual side effect.
It’s fair to say that this group is made up of diversity of interests, and it appears that that may be an advantage. Most writing groups are formed around particular genres or forms. Narratives is leaning more towards an “umbrella” covering all forms and all interests. The need here is for a large enough membership to allow for commonality within the group, and the honest interest of the individuals to expand into new areas. Not your typical writers’group. The plan, I believe, will be to offer each aspect enough opportunity to develop and be heard.
I’ve belonged to many different groups in my lifetime, from centralized focus such as emergency medical services to hobby or sport interests such as traditional archery, and even this weblogging circle of friends and fellow writers. The shared generalized interest is what brings it together; the diversity of opinion and direction is what makes it grow.
It will be interesting to see how this all develops.
The Lost Children: A Charity Anthology
Hi Susan. I like the spontaneous way this Narratives group has come together (For the record, I was actually joking about being outraged with the name change at the time that it was a big controversy)…the turnout of our first meeting was great!
My motto in life is…
A good traveller has no fixed plans and is not intent on arriving.
Borrowed from Lao Tzo, of course.
I think that that once we all get to know and become comfortable with eachother, we will find our rhythm.
At the very least, it was delightful enough just to meet up with everyone.
Now I’ll have to make a concerted effort to be on my best behavior 🙂
Good luck with your group. Wish i could find a good one locally.
Your writer’s group sounds wonderful. And do have a totally scrumtious weekend!
Rina, it was neat to finally meet you, and I think your interests lie well within the group. After all, history is just a long, long story.
Ellie and Anne, check out the Narratives link on this site. We’d always welcome visitors and what they may be able to add, even if we can’t meet face to face. Ellie, this group was started through interest and willingness of an English Professor and past and present students. It’s possible that with gentle prodding, you can make some contacts with a local university. I think this will be an exciting adventure for all of us.