So many times I hear people say how writing is a solitary business. Pop culture has perpetuated the myth of the isolated writer in his barren office, hunched over a typewriter, a combination of alcohol, coffee and cigarette butts strewn across the desk. Even the X-Files took a turn at the lone writer stereotype in its episode Milagro, albeit with a dark, paranormal twist.
I promise, most writers are not serial killers hell bent on ripping the hearts out of people. :)
All kidding aside, I find this stereotype not to be true at all. At least for me. I need my writing friends and family with me. I need them to bring me back to Earth when I’ve been in Fictionland too long. I need them to help me plot and plan and get unstuck on ideas. Even if I have a Great Idea, they are there to be excited about my new idea, then talk me back to my current project.
I look forward to the weekly sessions with my regular writing partners and the occasional meet-up with a larger group. It is one of the highlights of my week.
My local RWA Chapter has a motto:
One hand reaching forward, one hand reaching back, in an unbroken chain.
This is more than a motto to this chapter, it is a way of life for its members. A couple of weeks ago I met up with an amazing group of chapter friends for a write-in at the Brass Lamp in Long Beach, California. For those who aren’t familiar, a write-in is when a bunch of writers gather in one location and write together. Sure, we all work on our own projects, but to be in the company of Creatives…that is a true gift. I always find it a boon to my process. The energy flow is relaxed, the conversation is positive and uplifting, and the words flow from the fingers. This particular day was a celebration of the completion of 12,000 words for the month of May. As if any of us needed an excuse to celebrate the accomplishments of friends. :)
We wrote, we talked, we laughed. I was even able to discuss some issues I’d been having with Seduction due to some contest feedback I’d received. Luckily, my local RWA-PRO Liaison, Tari, is familiar with historical writing and was willing to take the time and help me regroup. Thanks to her, I am back on track with the Graeme and Delaney’s story.
I know of no other writing group who is so willing to help each other, and I am honored and humbled to be a part of it.
*gif by libby vanderploeg
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