Writing can be difficult and lonely. Sometimes we need to get out and away from our own distractions and excuses. Pubs, cafes and parks are nice but wouldn't it also be good to be part of a group of writers?

So let's work quietly together, gently encouraging each other to soldier on, and minding each others things when we have to go to the loo...

THE IDEA
Is simple. We are a serious group of writers that meet somewhere comfortable and write for 2, 3 or 4 hours straight. Each person works on their own and sets their own targets. What you write is entirely up to you. But here is the difference: you are not alone. Others are around you, typing, scribbling or looking out into the distance. Their company will help you stay focused, stop you from drifting, and keep on writing.

THE RULES
* To join you must have a real photo of yourself
* Distractions must be kept to a minimum, so no mobile phones, internet or talking. Just pretend you're in a library. Sssh!
* If you really have to do be noisy then do it away from the group
* Writers work on their own projects. No sharing or judgement of work. You measure your own progress and success.
* The show must go on! If the host is a no show then find other writers and get writing. There are no excuses for not writing.
* Attend meetings you RSVP to. This makes it a lot easier for hosts (who may be reserving tables). No shows will be reported, black listed, banned and their names erased from history. If you can't attend update your RSVP and let the host know.
* When events are at a commercial venue (e.g. cafe, restaurant) buy something, anything to make us welcome there. Think of it as a venue fee. DO NOT bring your own food & drink. This makes us look really bad.

WHAT WE ARE NOT
* We are not a critique group. Your work will not be reviewed.
* We are not a social group. People work in silence.
* We are not a workshop or a place with teachers/mentors. People are busy with their own work.

WHAT YOU NEED
Bring your unfinished project e.g. novel, short story, screenplay, poem etc.
Bring pen & paper, computer or whatever you like using. If it's electronic please check the battery will last because venues might not have power sockets available.

AFTERWARDS
After the session time is up you are free to talk, socialise and share experiences with fellow writers. Almost anything goes. Sometimes we go out for a drink. It is also perfectly acceptable to come just for the writing and leave politely straight after. Your writing always comes first.

MOTIVATIONAL RANT (in case you need it)
Writing doesn't happen by itself. It's a constant battle against procrastination, distractions and "I'm too tired/busy/bored/etc." Resist all this and commit to your passion. Attend our meetups as often as possible. They do get easier and you will get better. Just ask our members.

I don't know how long these meetups will run for. They are free and we do it because we love writing. Do not take them for granted. Do not miss opportunities to attend. This is completely for you. I say this to push you a little. It feels wonderful to call ourselves writers, but let's not forget to do the writing.

BEING A HOST
Writers want to write as much as they can. Let's make it happen. With such a simple idea, it should be possible for lots of hosts to run regular meetups all over the place. The more choices the better. Here are some guidelines:
* Anyone can suggest an event. Event becomes confirmed once you have 3 or more guests.
* Event title must start with hours and location e.g. "2hrs at The Secret Garden"
* First time host must run one event before adding more events (i.e. do one and see if you like it)
* Meetings should be at a venue and time that is convenient to the host, so that they are happy to run them often
* Consistently reliable hosts may be promoted to Event Organisers

QUESTIONS/PROBLEMS
I want these meetups to be enjoyable and productive. If any problems arise or you have an idea to share, please message me. Feel free to suggest suitable venues as well.

Warm regards and good writing,
Joao

Photo: Ian Kahn