I’ve traveled through numerous “writers’ groups” at various stages of my writing life. Early on, when I was low on the "confidence-in-my-writing" ability and was boxing myself into saying I only had enough skill to write short pieces (poetry and short-short stories), I found myself in a very relaxed group, one that was not so tuned in to strict writing goals and offering specific critique. One of our members actually did self-publish in the non-fiction realm, but most sessions were social gatherings, garnished with lots of good food, laughter, and general comments. I was OK with the dynamic at the time because I met some good people and did glean some advice that I would use later. Also, the writing I was doing at that point was mostly in journals, and it was more warm-up writing instead of serious writing.

Looking back from where I’m at today, my writing needs now would not have been met satisfactorily with a critique group like my first one. And the groups that I’ve been to within the past 5 years reflect how I’ve grown both in my writing skill and the ability to listen to my inner writer’s wisdom. I don’t limit myself anymore and have discovered that it is important to know the right time to allow your "group" to read your work and offer their comments.

Sometimes you can do more harm than good to your story (and psyche) even if the criticism you receive is constructive. Understanding this has helped me trust myself when doing final edits. I have a short story I’ve re-written 16 times, adapting each version to the critiques given to me by members in my group. Finally, I became so frustrated and confused about the central ideas and characters of my story that I threw out all the critiques and decided I would only listen to my own opinions for the time being.

Currently, I am in the process of polishing revision number 17 and have gone back to my original story-line and main character (Well, hello!). Now, I will only show a select few of my writer friends this re-discovered story, and only when I am certain the writing is done well and I am satisfied. I am still part of a writers' group, but I use more discretion now when I present my stories for critique.

Susan Girolami Kramer is Newsletter Producer for Rose & Thorn Journal. She wears many hats at her job as a Communications Specialist and at home on her off-hours. She’s a photographer, fiction and poetry writer, editor, and publication designer. She has won several awards during the last two decades for her photography and recently held a display at a local gallery. By day, she writes articles for an Association’s newsletter; by night, she taps into her more creative writing skills. Susan lives in Harrisburg, Pennsylvania, with her husband, son, and pug, Truman.