Houston Science Fiction / Fantasy Writers November Meetup

Our November meetup will be primarily a general discussion meetup. Two topics folks might want to consider for discussion:

1. Ending short stories Nothing is more annoying than wrapping up a short story and knowing (or being told) that the ending is somehow flat, trite, or weak. Are there general problems we can look for and avoid when ending shorts? What makes a strong ending? How do we decide when to end a story?

2. Starting Novels Every journey begins with the first step. How do we take that first step in writing a novel? Do we always know the length of a work when we begin? If we begin by outlining or worldbuilding, how do we move from development to writing the story?

We will of course, also read and discuss the writing exercise if there are any takers. (See *Special Seasonal Prompt* below!)

About our Meetup generally:
Currently we gather for a low-pressure chance to socialize with other folks interested in writing science fiction, fantasy or horror. Topics tend to range from "why I'm here at this group and what I like to write" through specific questions about writing process and problems to discussions of sf/f/h works and debates on ideas of general interest relative to writing sf/f/h.

We post an optional writing exercise, and if there are takers, we read and comment on their work. To participate in the exercise, write a science fiction, fantasy or horror piece 1000-2000 words in length based on the prompt below. If the text of the prompt is in quotes, the full text should appear somewhere in your exercise. If the text of the prompt is not in quotes, the concepts should appear in your exercise, but the phrase itself is not required. Bring 5 typed/printed copies to the meeting for people to read.

If the prompt inspires you to a piece that is longer than 2000 words, bring 5 copies of the first 2000 words as your exercise submission. If you'd like, be sure to bring a copy of the complete work in case a member wants to read the whole thing.

Some of our members are seeking critique circle opportunities. While this group does not currently function as a critique circle, it is an opportunity to meet others who might be so inclined, or who may be interested in one-to-one critique exchanges. We are considering the possibility of developing a critique circle as a companion to this group, and have started the preliminary discussions. More on that in the future!

Optional writing exercise prompt for November: giving thanks far from home, among strangers