Shut Up & Write (The Critique Session)

Details
Now that you've been shutting up and writing, you might want some feedback. This session is here to facilitate!

LOCATION AND TIME:

We will meet at the Barnes and Noble Cafe (Waterfront, Homestead) every other week starting on Dec 4, 2016 and will critique two papers per session.

Papers will be critiqued on a first come, first served basis, and we will take volunteers for the next session at the current session's conclusion.

PAPERS:

They should be

1. Any form. Personal Essay. Short story. Chapter. Blog. Whatever you would like feedback on.

2. In doc or docx form.

3. No more than approximately 10,000 words. . . If your piece is 10,050, I think the group could forgive the extra 50 words. :-) If it is 15,000, it's probably too long.

4. Circulated to participants via email the Wednesday prior to the meetup.

If you have concerns about circulating your information, you can set up a "burner" account for this or, alternatively, email to one of the organizers, who can forward the piece on your behalf.

5. Read and commented* upon prior to the start of the critique session.

Comments will be turned over to the writer at the end of the critique, and readers can bring their comments in hard or electronic copy. If you opt to comment electronically, please email your notes to the writer at the end of his or her session**.

*Please keep in mind that writers are looking to you for guidance on how to improve their work. This means providing the type of commentary that you would want to receive. In other words, please provide constructive criticism rather than mean-spirited comments like "This is awful." or "What were you thinking." (Hint: if you have to question whether it's too much in terms of snark or cattiness, it probably is.)

Readers will be asked to leave the group if they consistently engage in attacks on other writers' work.

** Electrical outlets are limited, so it is a good idea to make sure your laptops are fully charged. There is free wi-fi, I believe, but if not, please keep in mind that we are open to changing venues.

CRITIQUES:

The evening will consist of two critiques, beginning after introductions (6:00) at ~6:15 and 7:00 respectively, but you might consider arriving a little early to buy something to eat or drink (and show Barnes and Noble Cafe appreciation for letting us use the space.)

Each critique will last no longer than 45 minutes, so please keep in mind that you will need to be at the critique for 1.5 hours.

If you cannot commit to that amount of time (e.g., either arriving late or leaving early), please do not sign-up for the session.

As with the mean-spirited commentary, readers who are consistently late or consistently leave early will be asked to leave the group as late arrivals and/or departures signify a lack of regard for the others participating in the group.

If your plans change and you cannot attend, please cancel your RSVP.

AGENDA:

6:00-6:15: Introductions

6:15-7:00: First Critique

7:00-7:45: Second Critique

7:45-?: Hang-out and/or write