We're going to talk about critique groups, why they are awesome, and why they are less-than-awesome. Ready go!

Awesome: 

Part of writing is getting feedback. That's one of the completely non-negotiable parts of writing. (Along with a nice cup of something drinkable, good music, and StumbleUpon.) We need that so people can tell us our writing sucks, we can go, "Oh, it does, doesn't it?" and then go fix it.

And if we don't know exactly how to fix it, just having a new pair of eyes to look at your writing is helpful. Others pick up things you wouldn't catch, wouldn't even think of, so being able to shove off some of your writing problems on others is definitely helpful.

Less Than Awesome: 

Less than awesome is when people in your critique group don't tell you that you have an issue and you should probably just burn it and start over. (Harsh, yes, but true.) The ones who will smile and say it was fine, really, when you know in your little writerly heart that there is something wrong.

A lot of people are scared of hurting feelings or crushing egos, and thus, nothing helpful actually happens. So, as a note to those people: be harsh. It's okay. We asked for it. And if we get upset over your critique, we need to grow some balls. Sure, be nice about it, (no one likes their ego completely trampled on,) and always find something that you like, and be sure to mention that, but never be scared to simply say, "This didn't work for me." and then try to pinpoint where I went wrong.

Awesome: 

There is a great range of opinion in a group. You've (hopefully) got a range of ages and genres and writing styles, and all that experience and ... stuff ... contributes to making your writing better, and more accessible to a wide audience. Take advantage of your group. Pick people's brains. Explore different genres. Go outside your comfort zone.

Less Than Awesome: 

You're always going to have people that aren't going to get your writing style or genre. And you're going to get the same kind of critique from them each time as they can't get past the initial differences. The hardcore Epic Fantasy writer might not be able to get into your YA Urban Fantasy, and sometimes writing styles and people just don't mesh.

I mostly end up really wanting feedback from a select few within the group - those who share my genre and ideas. That isn't to say that I ignore feedback from everyone else, but I do take everything they say with the consideration that their idea of a good story is different than mine, and ultimately, I'm writing for me.




On a completely related note: 

There's a really cute little ginger kid here I want one. Everyone together now: Awwwww!