Writer’s Critique Group

WRITER’S CRITIQUE GROUP ~ A benefit of membership
1ST AND 3rd Tuesday at 6:30-8:30 pm
Just Buffalo @ WNYBAC, 468 Washington Street, 2nd Floor, Buffalo NY

FORMAT: All genres – fiction, poetry, playwriting, etc. are welcome.

Authors sign in at the beginning of each group and check a box on the sign-up sheet if we have a piece to read. The author brings in enough copies for each group member.

We draw names to determine the order in which people read. The author reads his/her piece (or may request that someone else read it or that the group read it silently). Group members take a few minutes to make notes and gather their thoughts. We go around the table and each member gives their critique of the piece. Members are encouraged to pass if they would rather not speak or have nothing to add. Guidelines are available to assist with critiquing. We ask that writers be thoughtful and professional in giving feedback.

The number of words read out loud is limited to 1000. If an author brings a longer piece, they can request that people take it home and work on it but the group will only discuss 1000 words or less.

Taking home work to critique is strictly optional. If members want to bring home a piece, fine. If not, pass and that means you simply don’t do it and don’t bring in a critiqued copy to the next meeting. No explanation necessary.

The author is encouraged to listen and absorb the feedback without response until each member has spoken and then brief comments or questions are welcome. Authors are encouraged to refrain from defending or explaining their work. Take the feedback and use it, or not, whatever works best. The author reigns over his/her work.

Gary Earl Ross
geross@buffalo.edu
Writer’s Critique Group Leader