While we write in privacy—holed up in our writing rooms all alone—most of us really do need other writers. We need feedback and encouragement for our work. We need validation. Is it really worth our while to sit day after day pouring our hearts into our work? No one else understands the heart of a writer and no one else can validate our passion.
Other writers provide information and resources we can use. Those who have gone down the publishing path before us can issue warnings about possible roadblocks and obstacles. They can reveal secret openings to potential success.
Every writer has experiences to share—experiences that can help guide others away from possible danger and toward some measure of success.
When you spend your days alone writing, you can get discouraged. Sometimes only another writer can provide the understanding, encouragement and support you need.
Join a face-to-face writers’ group in your area. To find one, check with your local librarian. Look at the calendar of events section of your newspaper. Contact a local arts council. Do a Google search using keywords, “writers group†and your city name. Ask other writers you know about a writers’ group. Or start a writers’ group yourself.
Join online writers’ groups. Do a Google search for a specific genre or type. I recommend, for anyone who is interested in being published, whether you are or want to be a freelance writer, author, artist, screen writer, etc. that you join SPAWN (Small Publishers, Artists and Writers Network) http://www.spawn.org SPAWN is a networking organization and resources center. Membership is only $45/year and it provides the potential for earning thousands of dollars through writing and book promotion. There’s also the possibility that you’ll save even more money by becoming aware of how to avoid making some seriously costly mistakes.
To engage in a dialogue with Patricia Fry use this email: PLFry620@yahoo.com. Visit my site at http://www.matilijapress.com While there, be sure to check out my array of books for writers, authors, grandparents, mentors and those who like metaphysical adventures. Look at my busy calendar of events. Sign up for an online course. Read about my consulting and editorial services. Enjoy my gift of resources and informative articles.