First Post!

Advantages of writing communities: insights, encouragement, and laughter.

In the last year, writing communities have transformed me. They’ve encouraged me, no, required me to reconsider my approach to writing. I have learned…

…to stop worshipping big, brick and mortar publishers. Legit indie publishers provide writers with opportunities and offer tremendous exposure and support.

…to adhere to the strict mantra of “enjoy the process!” I am more likely to win the lottery than make six figures with my writing, and that’s OK.

…to climb over the gate-keepers and around people who throw obstacles in my path, who try to diminish me. Prove them wrong then refer to the above “enjoy the process!”

…to rethink, to expand my definition of “writing community.”

When discouraged, read autobiographies/biographies of famous authors. Kurt Vonnegut’s (PITY THE READER by Suzanne McConnell), Ernest Hemingway’s (EARNEST HEMINGWAY ON WRITING, Larry W. Phillips editor), and James Patterson’s autobiography (JAMES PATTERSON) have become my most powerful sources of inspiration. Next up, Toni Morrison’s autobiography (THE PIECES I AM).

Listen to voices of children, the elderly, and people living in marginalized communities. They have so much to say and their voices echo many truths within our culture.

Investigate the the following publishers and organizations and what they can do for you: Wisconsin Writer’s Association; Write On Door County; Lakefly Writer’s Conference; Sheila na gig; and Vine Leaves Press.

And finally, not only have their books inspired me, but Joanne Nelson’s (Wake Up The Writer Within ) and Wendy Wimmer’s (WendyWimmerdotcom) offer a wealth of information for writers.