What we’re about
Once a month 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.
Occasionally we hold hands-on intensive workshops on specific writing topics. These usually last longer and are often on a weekend. Previous topics have included Character Development and Worldbuilding.
More frequently, we hold "Write-Ins" for our members to get together in a quiet venue with their preferred writing tools and work. These provide motivation and accountability, as well as impromptu challenges and brainstorming.
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 currently have two active critique circles as satellites of the Meetup. Interested writers can inquire about openings with the member facilitators of each group. Just ask at a meeting.
Events and announcements also found on Facebook: http://www.facebook.com/groups/471201832916412/
Group Photo by Flickr user lorenjavier, CC Licensed.
Upcoming events
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Houston Science Fiction and Fantasy December Meetup
Melange Creperie, 711 Heights Boulevard, Houston, TX, USJoin us at 6:30 pm at Melange Creperie for an evening of socializing and fun with other Houston SFF authors.
Activities: Let's talk about maintaining momentum in your writing. The winter months are filled with distractions: holidays, end-of-year deadlines, sick kids, etc. What do you do to keep yourself focused on your art and being productive during this busy season?
Anna will also bring games again for after. Come join the fun!
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About The Houston Science Fiction and Fantasy Meetup Group: In 2004, the Houston Science Fiction and Fantasy Meetup was born. Throughout its twenty-year history, it's been a stalwart supporter of sci-fi and fantasy writers in Houston, providing free educational workshops, spawning numerous critique groups, hosting writing salons, and most importantly, filling the backrooms of restaurants with local authors having boisterous conversations with each other regularly.
As with all things, there have been ebbs and flows. Due to reduced attendance during the COVID lockdown and post-pandemic difficulties, the group stopped meeting in early 2024, leaving a dearth of opportunities for local authors to mingle and support one another.
However, we're ready to resurrect this bad boy! With your help, we can zap it with some creative lightning and bring it back stronger than it was before!2 attendeesHouston Science Fiction and Fantasy January Meetup and Open Critique
Melange Creperie, 711 Heights Boulevard, Houston, TX, USJoin us at 6:30 pm at Melange Creperie for an evening of socializing and fun with other Houston SFF authors.
Activities:
Conversation Topic: Let's talk about misdirection in your writing. Plot twists that truly come out of nowhere are usually disliked or criticized as jumping the shark or deus ex machina. How do you lay out the clues for an exciting secret—like who the killer is, which camper is actually a werewolf, or what space marshal is secretly working for the plutonium cartel—without blowing the reveal by being too obvious?
Free Conversation and Games:
Anna will bring games as usual. Come join the fun!
Open Critique Session:
We're field testing open critiques for the group again! To participate in the exercise, write a science fiction, fantasy or horror piece 1000-2000 words in length based on the prompt below. Bring 10 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 10 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. Keep in mind that the writing exercise is meant to be a light-hearted opportunity to learn the critique process and get familiar with the writing of your peers. Critiques will be verbal, but expect to get written feedback on your submission copies as well.
Critiquers should utilize constructive criticism techniques like the sandwich method and focus on big-picture elements instead of grammar or misspellings.
Prompt elements (use at least one): broken window, moonlight, "the first time I saw [him/her/them] die"
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About The Houston Science Fiction and Fantasy Meetup Group: In 2004, the Houston Science Fiction and Fantasy Meetup was born. Throughout its twenty-year history, it's been a stalwart supporter of sci-fi and fantasy writers in Houston, providing free educational workshops, spawning numerous critique groups, hosting writing salons, and most importantly, filling the backrooms of restaurants with local authors having boisterous conversations with each other regularly.
As with all things, there have been ebbs and flows. Due to reduced attendance during the COVID lockdown and post-pandemic difficulties, the group stopped meeting in early 2024, leaving a dearth of opportunities for local authors to mingle and support one another.
However, we're ready to resurrect this bad boy! With your help, we can zap it with some creative lightning and bring it back stronger than it was before!1 attendee
Past events
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