The Write Crowd – the right book?
Can a book teach you how to write? No, although you could argue that reading a lot of books can teach you how to write, as you absorb all those good words by osmosis. Sometimes, though, it is helpful to have a guide and some words of advice and encouragement – especially if you are at the beginning of your writing journey or struggling with where to go next.
I am writing a series of reviews of writing books and hope you find them helpful. My second review looks at being a good writer – as in a good member of the writing community.
Published this year, the author offers practical tips on how to fit in to the literary community. I had great hopes for this book because all authors – published, self-published, novice and expert – need to know how to navigate the world of other writers and readers.
Although it’s presented as suitable for all writers, it seems to be focused on small press poets based in America – in short, authors like the author of this book. Of course there are lessons which apply to all writers, but the emphasis is on finding a local poetry reading group, or working with journals.
She does discuss the balance between an online and a real life presence, but there is a lot more to say that would have wider relevance.
The best piece of advice was to block off time to offer free time or services, and then block off time for your own projects. You can then participate within a wider community without finding yourself burning out. It’s important to be part of the community, but not at the expense of your own writing.
Have you read it? Do you have your own advice on how to be part of a wider group of authors and readers?
June 2, 2015