By Maggie
There’s something about getting away from day to day
tasks that helps a person take a deep breath and see life through a clear, new
lens. The NCW Writing Retreat October 26-28 did just that for me. I feel
refreshed and realistic, ready to give writing my all yet again. Sylvan Dale
Guest Ranch is not only beautiful and relaxing, but inspiring and invigorating,
as well. This was my fourth NCW retreat there, and I love each trip more than
the last. My new novel is taking shape now. While focusing on my writing
without distractions, I discovered who my characters are, found the direction
of my plot, and built the foundation for their world. I found something I’d
lost, too: a sense of community with other writers.
Every writer knows that the very nature of our
occupation often sentences us to solitary confinement. I don’t have a problem
being alone and enjoy it for the most part. I need to think my own thoughts,
work my way through problems- fictional and real life- and do all this at my
own pace. But, as important to me as anything else, I remembered during this
weekend retreat how very important spending time with other writers is to me.
What’s important for me to remember is that no
matter what problem I have with my writing, another writer knows how I feel,
has been there themselves, or can steer me in the direction of the answer. I
know writers on every level from the newbie to the highly acclaimed, and I’ve learned
from every one of them. I benefitted from being in a critique group for three
years before we went our own ways, and maybe it’s time to be think about being
part of a group again. I do know one thing, though, and that’s how valuable
being in a community of other writers truly is.
How about you? Are you part of a community of
writers?
6 comments :
I so agree with you. I host writer's retreats during the year and it's always such a blessing. We need each other, as we tend to isolate ourselves and lose perspective on the big picture of being a writer.
So glad you had a great time.
Jan Cline
I've been a part of a variety of writing groups -- online and in person -- and each is different. Like Maggie, I learn something new from each participant. It always seems to be exactly what I need when I need it, even if sometimes I'm not all that anxious to hear it!
NCW does an excellent job of providing members with ways to get together. I take advantage of only a few, but they are an important part of my writing life.
Maggie,
I agree that a writing community is a must have for any writer. I am so lucky to have you as a part of mine. :-)
Maggie,
I agree that a writing community is a must have for any writer. I am so lucky to have you as a part of mine. :-)
Right back at ya, Kerrie;)
Maggie: it was great to share my first retreat with you and the other great writers there.
The solitude is so good for writing and knowing all that energy from everyone else is buzzing around seems to help, too.
I'll see you there next year!
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