November Writing Workshop Discussion Thread

[Ximena]

OK, so let's tentatively say:

Sunday, Nov 4.

What time works for everyone? Would 2PM CST... I think that's 8PM in Europe ... work for everyone? (That's the time we did the last workshop, if memory serves.)

[Deleted]

I wouldn't mind it being a tad earlier, but it isn't a deal breaker.

[Ximena]

I understand that... it would make it a little harder for me but I could manage it if necessary. What does everyone else say? Is there a time that would work better?

[ruthmadison]

The time of the last one worked well for me.

[spurs2000]

It should be good for me!

[ruthmadison]

Something else I wanted to talk about...

How finished/polished are we expecting these pieces to be?

I submitted last time something that was not up to a state that I would publish because I needed help with it (obviously!), but I feel as though people had some high expectation of my work.

I wouldn't hold workshop pieces to the same standard as something that's ready to be put out, but maybe I should have submitted something that was close to ready just for a final polish?

What are people's thoughts about this?

(I put myself on the line to be judged on something that is not my highest quality work and I'm regretting that a bit. I'm not sure I'll be submitting again if that's the standard).

[Deleted]

Ruth, I think that your submission just had so much going on that it was really interesting to talk about and I would love to see it develop so you shouldn't regret it at all!!!! I think that it should be up to the person who submits the peice as to what they need help with, are trying out, just about to publish, anything. As a person submitting I would love it to be a tool for me to get better, and to test ideas. I think we can't really judge by the first one because the group is a work in progress. If I could go back I reckon I wouldn't have said so much but I was just feeling really enthusiastic.

I know that it may make it harder but I would prefer more of a discussion format. Perhaps it was more of a firing line. A discussion format may lead to more of a brainstorm than a critique session. Just a thought. And we can always do notes on the peice and email the coments as that is what I have found really helpful.

Again though Ruth, I personally would hate for you to worry about what you submit and am sorry if I was too strong in my views last time.

[ruthmadison]

It wasn't that anything was too harsh, I guess I just got the impression that people were thinking, "Wow, I thought Ruth would be better."

Maybe just my ego getting in the way!

Um, what do you think about having everyone having a chance to say something and then transitioning into discussion? Perhaps we can try that when I'm moderating.

[Ximena]

Yes, I specifically said 2PM CST, which is my time zone, and equal to 3PM EST.

I think we should be flexible and writers should say the level of critique they're looking for. I tend to be detailed and specific, but only in constructive ways. If I don't think something's working, I'll tell you why I think so.

[Deleted]

Aww, no workshop peices yet. I keep checking I know that Lucretia and Alf are hoping to submit something, anyone else?

[Max]

I have to sit this one out, I'm booked that evening.

[Ximena]

Do we have any submissions for this?

[Ximena]

I vote for delaying. My in-laws decided to come in this weekend very last minute, so I wouldn't be able to host/participate.

[ruthmadison]

That's okay for me! MORE NANO

[Deleted]

I'm fine for Dec.