Tarpon Springs Writers Group

The purpose of the Tarpon Springs Writers Group is to assist each other—through reading aloud and round-table critique—to (1) become better writers and (2) achieve publication goals. Beginners and unpublished writers are welcome, but they should be aware that it is a critique group, not a how-to clinic. The group is geared toward people who are working on--or seriously considering--a book or article for publication in the commercial, academic or non-profit markets. 

The writers group meets every Friday (except library holidays) from10 a.m. to 1 p.m. in the Library Conference Room, with a five-minute break about 11:30. There are no dues or attendance requirements. After the preliminaries, the moderator determines the readers for the day and allows each to read a portion of his/her work for round-table critique.

What types of material is this group best suited to critique?

1. Fiction or non-fiction works in any genre; query letters or synopses; prologues or forewords to instructional materials; and any other pieces deemed appropriate by the moderator.
2. Poetry and screenplays may be read only as time permits (due to the current group’s lack of experience and expertise in these areas) but authors of these types of writing are encouraged to pass them out to members of the group for critique outside of group meetings.

Is there anything you do not critique?

We do not critique previously published work; pieces that have already been read to the group; instructional materials that consist mainly of detailed listings (e.g., recipe books); or works to be printed and distributed only to family and friends. Memoirs and family histories are allowed only if aimed at publication for a wide audience. (There are several groups in the area that specialize in this type of writing).

What is the basis for reading order?

1. If five or fewer members ask to read, the order is at the discretion of the moderator.
2. If more than five ask to read, preference is given to those members who attended but did not read the previous week, followed by regular members.
3. Any additional time may be allotted to latecomers to the meeting, members with irregular attendance histories and first time visitors.

What procedures do I need to follow if I am going to read my work?

1. The reader may read only ONE work per meeting (no matter how brief).
2. The time for reading is limited to fifteen minutes or less.
3. The reader is expected to listen politely to each critique and NOT comment, argue, defend, clarify or otherwise attempt to explain. The work must stand on its own.
4. The reader may respond only if asked a question, but the response should be brief.

What are the elements of a good critique?

1. Point out the positive as well as what could be improved.
2. Be polite, keep it brief and do not elaborate on what has already been mentioned (though you may state your agreement/disagreement with previous comments so the reader knows that a particular opinion is held by more than one member).
3. Do not relate anecdotes ("That reminds me of…") or otherwise stray. All comments should be about the piece that has just been read.
4. Offer advice to the reader on where to submit the work for publication ONLY if the reader asks for it.
5. Do not speak out of sequence or debate another member’s critique.
6. Avoid admonishing a reader because you disagree with the content, choice of words or slant of the writing (although you may point out its controversial nature).
7. Avoid asking questions of the reader that require lengthy answers.

How is the moderator selected and what are his/her duties?

1. An election is held at the second meeting each January to determine the moderator for the year.
2. The moderator calls the meeting to order and runs it in accordance with the guidelines set forth in this document.
3. The moderator is the sole spokesperson for the group with regard to outside activities, promotion and publicity.
4. He/she may designate an assistant to keep records and handouts, to serve as moderator in his/her absence, or to perform other duties consistent with the activities and goals of the group.

Is there anything else I should know?

The best way for us to become successful writers as well as reviewers is to be familiar with what agents and editors want and/or the principles of writing and composition. Accordingly, all members are encouraged to subscribe to writers’ periodicals; read how-to books by agents, editors and other writers; take creative writing courses; attend conferences and workshops; use writers’ resources on the internet; and read, read, read.

The Tarpon Springs Writers Group is a special kind of support group for those of us attempting to enter the world of published authors. We have had some successes, and know we will have more in the future. Welcome to the group.