INTRODUCING OUR GROUP
| Fiction writing is a lonely business. Other creative
artists can display their work on a wall, play it on a
piano, watch it grow, or build it. Writers work alone
staring at their typewriters or PC’s and receive
little feedback. To assuage this loneliness, give mutual understanding, and encourage excellence, creative writing clubs are founded. For more than a dozen years the Tarpon Springs Writers Club has met from 10 A.M. to 1 P.M. every Friday in a city library room to read and critique original prose writing intended for publication. There are no dues and no elected officers; all subjects and all genera are acceptable. Membership in the group includes writers from all fields. We have a mystery writer who has published more than 28 books in her career; a novelist whose first book has been accepted by St. Martin’s Press; a veteran of the publishing industry; journalists collaborating to sell articles to police magazines; an historic novelist; writers of children’s fiction; a Reader’s Digest contributor; and many more. At a typical session, writers read to the group short stories, chapters from novels, articles, query letters or other material intended for publication. Selections take approximately fifteen minutes to read. Then each member of the group takes a turn giving a critique of the material. Critiques focus on technical mistakes, unclear passages, mistakes in grammar and usage, narrative strength, point of view, time and place, plot and character development, and the potential for publication. Writers are advised not to become sensitive or defensive because all criticism is intended as a positive effort. We emphasize respect and professionalism. Well aware that the book market in the United States is highly competitive, rigorous in its standards, and difficult to enter, the Tarpon Springs writers are committed to producing excellence. THE SPINDRIFT ANTHOLOGY is our way of displaying what we can offer the reading public. Serious writers are invited to join us. |