How and where can i get help with my writing

[sweet-jay]

I love writing; it's a hobby. But for a long time now i haven't been writing... However, a great friend of mine has encouraged me to take my writing very seriously, and i am ready to take it up from where i'd left it off.

I usually write when I have been asked to write under a particular article, or when i feel like writing eg when i am feeling low and discouraged, i can write a poem of encouragement or something like that.

But now, i want to write, regardless of my mood and feelings.

How and where can i get help?

All your contributions are precious and valuable!!!

GOD BLESS YOU!

[lynnmosher]

First, search through the old posts in the Writers Lounge. There are many here that will help you. As has been said numerous times, just write. And read, read, read! Read all you can of others work in the area in which you are interested and read all the writing books on grammar and form. Also learn all the basics of writing queries, cover letters, and proposals.

If you write non-fiction, look into sending articles/devotions/stories into magazines. These are great for adding to your published list and getting a feel for how things work.

The workshops are here for a reason...to help guide you to improving your writing. There are many writing courses that are great tools for learning to hone your craft. Join a writers critique group in your area or online. Hope this helps a little.

[Tarin]

1. Write. This is the single most important part. Period.

2. Read. I'd suggest subscribing to Writer's Digest and The Writer to get you started. I'm guessing you write nonfiction, so I really don't have any informational book titles to offer. But if you nose around, I'm sure you can find what you're looking for.

[Michael Scott]

Exactly what Tarin said. Write. That's the only difference between a writer and a non-writer.

Doesn't really matter what you write. Could be fiction, non-fiction, poetry, (even, I suppose, a creative grocery list). Just write.

And then, after you've written, read it back to yourself and ask whether or not it is the best you can do. Rewrite it. Then have someone else (qualified reader - ie: someone who reads voraciously, or at least frequently, and who will give you honest feedback; or another writer who has shown some accomplishment) read it and offer their critique. Listen to their suggestions. Ask others to do the same.

Rewrite it again.

And maybe again.

When you have something you consider worth publishing, whether an article or poem or novel or non-fiction book, then look into what it will take to get it published. Learn about format, writing query or proposal letters, markets, marketing, etc. - the whole 'business side' of writing.

And then go back and write some more.

[Timber Wolf]

The where would be - here at CW for starters. Read through old posts, read the works submitted for critique - don't worry, you'll eventually be elilgible to submitt for critique after you meet the reqs. Read the FAQs and TOS, you'll get the hang of how things work around here in no time.

Look or a writing group in your area - I belong to two currently, both of which are on summer break. I'm looking at two others when I get the funds to join.

The how - well, write, write, write. Read - read about writing, read good books that are well written, and if you read a poorly written book, make mental notes about what strikes you as a negative, and why. Read, read, read. (I sound like "See Dick, see Jane, see Dick and Jane run, run, run. :D)

And ask questions. I don't think I've of any reports of anybody having a head bitten off around here for asking questions.

Oh, and Welcome to our little corner of the asylum.

[Zanzibar]

Depending on where you are from you might be able to find a local writers group as well.

[christwriter]

There are many on-line sites you can submit your writings to, or you can create your own blogs.

The first thing you will need to consider before you begin is to find out what genres you are most comfortable in writing. Is it for the secular world or for Christian faith? What kind of writings - fiction, non-fiction, devotional, study, or what else?

After you have submitted more than 5 message posts at these forums, you will be able to submit your work-in-progress writing to the 'workshops' for critique and upon completion, submit to CW Writer Showcase for others' comment.

I think that's how it works here, but you may want to check with the others who have been here longer, as I am very new here.

Regards
Write4Christ

[sweet-jay]

Hey Gracious people!
Thanks a million; i am already feeling so encouraged by all that you are saying to me!

GOD BLESS YOU ALL!!!:)

[Thebigguy]

There is a good series put out by writers digest called Write Great Fiction. There is five books so far by various authors, there is one on Plot and Structure, Characters, Emotion and Viewpoint, Description and Setting, Dialog, and Revision and Editing. My favorite that I recommend is the one on Plot and Structure, James Scott Bell is sooooo encouraging for first time writers. He was told he couldn't that you either had it or you didn't, what he learned later in life was differed from his High School Teachers opinion. I wont tell you anymore in case you want to buy it.
What I like about it is it has exercises in it so you can practice what you just read, I'm very kinetic in my learning so it was really good.
Just a my two cents.

[sweet-jay]

First, search through the old posts in the Writers Lounge. There are many here that will help you. As has been said numerous times, just write. And read, read, read! Read all you can of others work in the area in which you are interested and read all the writing books on grammar and form. Also learn all the basics of writing queries, cover letters, and proposals.

If you write non-fiction, look into sending articles/devotions/stories into magazines. These are great for adding to your published list and getting a feel for how things work.

The workshops are here for a reason...to help guide you to improving your writing. There are many writing courses that are great tools for learning to hone your craft. Join a writers critique group in your area or online. Hope this helps a little.

Thanks Lynn..yeah, am gonna write....write.. and read...., I am really looking forward to having a great time on here, and I am already having a good time...GOD BLESS!