The Writers Bloc

Critique Circles are informal groups that agree to read and critique fellow Bloc Members manuscripts. The groups meet after the general meetings each month, or at another time if all the members involved are willing and agree on a place and time.

GUIDELINES FOR SUBMITTING WORK TO A CRITIQUE CIRCLE

1. Critique circles will meet after the adjournment of the formal program.

2. Have your manuscript (or manuscripts if short) prepared correctly.

a. Double spaced type on plain white paper (no onion skin)

b. Type in easily readable print (Arial or Time New Roman suggested)

c. Maximum of 2000 words at right

d. Paginated with surname at right

e. Proper grammar and mechanics to the best of your ability

f. Include a cover page with title and author

g. Photocopy or print out enough copies for each critic

3. Critics should organize in groups according to their interest.

4. Critique Circles are done by the subject (the person whose work you're editing and critiquing, sitting across from the critics who go around the circle, offering their input. The subject should keep notes of everything said by the critics. He/she could then ask questions about the constructive criticism. From there, the group may debate points of the body of the work in an informal manner, as long as no speaker is ever interrupted. Wait your turn to say something.

5. Critics should give valuable and helpful info on the work.

6. No personal attacks; comments are to be limited the work.

7. No member can be critiqued more than once, until every member in the group has had his/her work critiqued.

8. Anyone can critique anyone if it's done professionally, gently, and constructively. Besides critiquing the member's work by writing directly on their paper Editing it), you should also write overall notes on structure, characters, plot, or anything else related to what is written. Keep in mind that when you critique, say an essay, that different mechanics are used so don't judge an essay by fiction standards, or by poetical composition. If you don't know the standards, don't volunteer to be a critic in that subject, or take the time to educate yourself on the basics.

9. Determine at the monthly meeting prior to the next one, who will be critiqued, and who will be the critics; get a head count so you'll know how many copies of your work you should bring. You may get more than one manuscript evaluated. When writers and evaluators have done their homework, the sessions go quickly.

HOW TO CRITIQUE A MANUSCRIPT

1. React as a reader. Was it logical? Unified or rambling? Slow or hurried? Did it feel incomplete? Tell how and where if you can. Did it move you? Did it pull you into the story? Were the people realistic? Was the tension felt? Was tension sustained? Mention here only the important points.

2. Don't argue. State your points clearly, briefly. Don't try to rewrite the story. Help the writer with technique, even if the subject is not your favorite. Is it suitable for the intended audience? If some fact bothers you, ascertain with simple questions whether it was researched. Don't try to show your superiority.

3. Look for trite Phrases. No need to mention these in vocal comments. Especially look for trite words, repeated words, grammar, etc. should be written down on comment sheets. Write down all comments. This written record is invaluable to the writer during revisions.

4. Don't monopolize conversation. Add only additional points, and agreement or disagreement on specific points already made. If you have nothing additional, simply pass. This often can save time for helpful criticism from others. If you have not yet crystallized your thoughts, pass and take your turn later. Commend the writer on good points. We all need this. Encouragement is vital to every writer.

HOW TO ACCEPT CRITICISM OF YOUR WORK

1. Don't argue. If the point is not clear to someone, it doesn't matter what you intended to convey. To this person, it didn't come across. Wait and see what others think. Keep score if you wish. Duplicated reactions reinforce the value of criticism.

2. Question the critic only if you need clarification, but don't waste your time trying to convince critic he was wrong or explaining what you intended to express.

3. Write down criticism under critic's name. Depending on material, some comments will be more valuable than others. Weigh carefully the comments and the person making them. Here you will be able to count up a "score" on some controversial points. It is a mistake to discard any criticism without consideration.

4. When you read, you're in the driver's seat. You can control the pace of the comments. Ask if a person has any more comments if you wish, then move to the next person. Try to wring all of the helpful comments you can from each critic. It will help.

5. Have an Open Mind. Think from the listener's point of view. You are very close to your material. Listen, observe, record.

6. Keep discussion on target. Off-track talk costs you valuable critical comments. Keep discussion on your story.

7. Develop a Thick Skin. Taking criticism is hard. Taking it on your creation is murder. Learn how. This group can be a big help to you and your writing, if you let it!