Many things naturally occur by osmosis, but learning isn’t
one of them. In particular, good writing doesn’t happen by osmosis- it’s not a
virus one can catch by sitting next to someone who writes well. Neither can one catch it by simply coming to
every guild meeting.
Good writing takes effort, time,
and a willingness to learn – the ability to take instruction is key.
It is up to members what their
“take-away” is for each meeting. Up
until now we have not offered any instruction on the basics other than the
offered programs at various meetings through the year. The membership as a whole is writing on many
levels and we do try to offer a variety of programs to appeal to all
levels. It’s a juggling act.
The dilemma here is that beginning
writers don’t know what they don’t know, and some not enough to ask for
instruction.
First stories, while a celebration
and milestone for the new writer are still just that - first stories, practice -
and never meant for publication. They
are something to get ‘under your belt’.
They are a true learning experience.
For every writer the key is to
practice. While some people come to
writing with innate talent, writing is still a craft and that means it CAN be
learned.
First story, second story, drafts
and prompts – no writing is ever “wasted time” as long as you are learning and
growing from those.
You will get out of this exactly
what you put into it.
Good writing to you all.
3' x 3' oil painting I did at my mom's this summer. This was my first landscape painting - ever. It was a learning experience.
