How to Start a Writer's Group

Most of my circle of friends aren't particularly interested in the fact that Ted Kooser has a free poetry column that can be reprinted, nor do they jump for joy when I find a really interesting poem. The most interesting literary discourse I get on a regular basis is when I read Dr. Seuss books with my daughter.

Upon realizing that I couldn't be truly literarily satisfied by my friends and family, I decided to hunt for a literary group. Shortly after being disappointed in my hunt for like minded folks, I decided to pick up my writing magazines and float away into my own little daydreams of literary exchange. Then, I found an article in Writer Magazine that gave tips and hints for people who conducted writing groups. It sounded like a great deal of fun to be doing exercises, critiquing projects and reading and discussing literature with a group of other literary enthusiasts. I really wished that there was something like that in my local area, so I started one.

Get Your Writing Group Noticed

1. Ask local book stores, coffee shops, and libraries if you can post fliers detailing the nature, meeting times, and contact information for your new writing group.

2. Don't neglect the colleges in your local area. See if you can post fliers on their boards.

3. Large Supermarkets usually have bulletin boards near the entry way. They usually get read quite often, so post away.

4. Place classified ads in your local circulation. You might even try sending out a press release for your new group, whether or not you are a published writer.

5. If your local area has a roller channel, pay the fee to post your slide.

6. Get the smaller local businesses in on the action. They might be willing to keep fliers or cards on hand that advertise your writing group, especially since there is a chance that it will bring them more business.

Points to Ponder When Starting Your Group

1. Make sure you have a good location secured for the eventual meetings.