By Ruta Rimas
Hopefully, you’ve already heard the exciting news about how GetLit Beacon is expanding: with a monthly writer’s circle. Starting May 5th, prior to our regular gathering, we will be offering a chance to meet other writers in our community and to give you professional feedback on the first 2 pages of your writing. 
Each person will receive personalized, constructive help (each session is limited to 8 participants, so when the call for sign-up goes out, be sure to respond quickly. Which is also a good reminder to sign up for our newsletter, if you haven’t already, or contact us at getlitbeacon@gmail.com).
One of the strongest elements of our GetLit writing community – aside from all the fabulous writers — is that we practice positive listening. All of us acknowledge the emotional challenge of sharing our personal work. We strive to make our monthly gathering an energizing, supportive one. But if you want critical feedback, a group to push you harder than you’ve been pushed before, the writer’s circle can help you develop your craft.
But why do you need critical feedback at all? Isn’t your writing perfect the way it is?
Writer Andrea Johnson sums it nicely here:
“Most people aren’t able to view their own work objectively. A trustworthy critique partner can help a writer improve by offering an outside perspective. This includes providing support during times of self-doubt and holding that partner accountable with regard to deadlines. But the true value of a critique partner is that he or she will help you develop the tough skin that comes with receiving criticism gracefully—a skill that’s essential when submitting work for publication.”
Maggie Stiefvater, a NY Times Bestselling author, has this to add about writing for a reader:
“I’ve met people who really and truly are purely writers. They write for themselves. They construct elaborate journals only for their own eyes. They would continue writing even if they never got a word published.
I am not that person. I write for an audience. For the reaction. To change people’s moods and hearts….Because of that, critique partners and beta readers are crucial for me. I
want to have a hint of how my stories are landing before they are released into the wild, particularly as my stories get wilder and stranger as I stretch my bizarre wings.”
GetLit Beacon’s monthly writer’s circle can help you stretch your bizarre wings – and prepare you and your writing to fly!
Nightcap Newburgh 