Writing Communities to Join Today
As a writer, it can sometimes feel like a solitary pursuit. You spend countless hours alone, hunched over your keyboard or legal pad, trying to eke out words and sentences that will make your story or article sing. But the truth is that writing doesn't have to be a lonely venture. There are countless communities out there, both online and in real life, that can help you hone your craft, connect with other like-minded writers, and simply enjoy the pleasures of being part of a supportive community. Here are a few writing communities to consider joining today:
1. National Novel Writing Month (NaNoWriMo)
Every November, thousands of writers across the globe commit to writing a 50,000-word novel in just 30 days. NaNoWriMo provides a sense of community and motivation to keep you going during the month-long challenge. It's a great way to work on a first draft, hone your writing discipline, and connect with writers near and far.
2. Writers' Conferences
Attending a writers' conference can be a great way to meet fellow writers, learn from industry professionals, and get inspired. Whether you write fiction, non-fiction, or poetry, there's sure to be a conference that caters to your interests. Some popular conferences include the Writer's Digest Annual Conference, the AWP Conference, and the San Francisco Writers' Conference.
3. Online Writing Workshops
Many online communities offer writing workshops, which provide an opportunity to get feedback on your work from peers and professionals alike. Whether you choose to participate in a workshop on a site like Scribophile or Critique Circle, or opt for something more intensive like a Master Class with a bestselling author, an online writing workshop can be a great way to improve your writing and connect with other writers.
4. Writing Groups
Joining a writing group can be a great way to meet other writers who share your interests. Whether you participate in a local writers' group that meets in person, or join an online writing group that allows you to connect with writers from all over the world, being part of a writing group can help you feel more connected to the wider writing community.
5. Social Media
Social media can be an incredibly powerful tool for writers. Whether you join a writing group on Facebook or Twitter, participate in a writing challenge on Instagram, or simply connect with other writers through hashtags like #amwriting or #writingcommunity, social media can provide a sense of community and support that can be hard to find elsewhere.
6. Writing Forums
Forums like Absolute Write or Writer's Cafe can be a great way to connect with other writers, get feedback on your work, and ask questions about everything from grammar and punctuation to the publishing process. While not all forums are created equal, finding the right one can provide a sense of community and support that can be invaluable.
7. Local Writing Events
Many cities host writing-related events throughout the year, from book readings to author signings to writing workshops. Attending these events can be a great way to connect with the local writing community, learn more about the industry, and get inspired.
No matter what kind of writing you do, there's a community out there that can help you connect with other writers and hone your craft. From writing groups to online workshops to social media, there are countless ways to find the support and inspiration you need to keep writing and growing as a writer. So why not join a writing community today? You never know where it might lead!