By Stacey Lupky
Can an earnest writer, perhaps introverted and self-conscious, really put their feelings aside and share their work with complete strangers for critique and come out of the experience with ego unscathed? Short answer: Yes.
The Manitoba Writer’s Guild Critique Circles provides feedback on any type of writing by a group of peers. By utilizing this feedback, the writer gives themself permission to be bolder: both personally and with their craft. Tuesday night’s circle demonstrated this wholeheartedly. Some comments that piqued my interest before the evening even began, provided great points about why these groups are so important: Attendees mentioned having a place to share your writing makes the whole process real, sharing for critique requires time and self-discipline, and the editing process can be shocking to a writer whose sentences are precious and words beloved.
A striking feature of Tuesday night’s circle was the flow of conversation and openness of discussion. Our group opened up to each other through their pieces which ranged from humorous to personal stories with emotional gravity. We discussed technical writing such as language and words in a historical context that may not work in the timeframe they were situated in. For example, would one say they paved the way for someone when paved roads don’t exist yet within the story? We extolled the virtues of letter writing within fiction to move the plot forward. We complimented the use of sensory words and detailed descriptions to heighten emotional works.
An often overlooked feature of the Critique Circle is that you can join simply to observe without sharing anything you’ve written. It’s a fantastic way of dipping your toes in if you’re unsure of the reception your work might receive. Should you choose to offer critique, the group is welcoming and appreciative. Our Tuesday night group, comprised of six, included an observer who offered a valuable perspective.
Someone who is earnest and full of self-doubt can find a place to grow through constructive criticism in these Critique Circles, including myself. I had plenty of anxiety sharing my writing with strangers, but I can assure you that I feel much more emboldened now after hearing feedback and improvements for my short story. In fact, I’m excited to return next month!