Critiques

IF you are a writer, you know about critiques. They can be awesome, or they can really wear you down. Both have been sent to me. I realize I need a lot of work, but I am learning so much.

Being a member of a small critique group of friends is different from being a member of a critique group of people that you don't know. I am a member of both. They are different in so many ways.

The little group of friends ,who critique each others work, can say things to you that you don't want to hear. We are friends and most know each other, so I guess we feel we have a license to do that. It is very helpful to me because I have learned from my mistakes. I tell them I am a slow learner, but I do eventually catch on.

Recently, I joined ACFW's Basic Critique Group. My first chapter has just been returned from two members of the group. That can be intimidating for a new writer, but it really worked out well for me. Maybe I am finally learning, because I got a lot of positive comments. They were very helpful comments and will improve my writing.

If you are a writer and not a member of a critique group, whether on line or off, you need to find one. For me, they are my lifeline. I can ask questions and make comments. You can decide which of these comments that you want to take. After all, it is your manuscript.