Posted: Jan 3, 08 11:25am
(During the first several weeks I will post this Tier II mission statement now and again just to keep our values front of mind. There is no need to respond to this "discussion.")
Mission & Values
This is a collegial but earnest space for aspiring writers to share work, processes, news and information that relate to writing. The ethos is one of rigorous honesty clothed in respect and tempered by empathy.
Any genre is welcome here - narrative fiction, personal essay, poetry, prose poetry, humor, memoir - provided it has been crafted as skillfully, carefully, and professionally as possible. This includes careful proofing for spelling and punctuation.
This is not the space for random silliness for the sake of silliness, disruptive posts that interfere with timing or process, failure of respect and common courtesy. Please also refrain from adding photographs or other images to your posts. The writing should speak for itself.
Writers should think for a moment prior to posting whether the discussion is a fit for Tier II, or if it might be better served at TWG.
The Guidelines: Any writer may post work as a discussion. If you are seeking feedback please preface your post with a brief statement so saying, and specifying particular areas of concern. KenWritez gives us a fine example of this: “I need some perspective. What do you all think about this? Is it schmaltzy? Too on-the-nose? Wordy? Are the characters believable and do you care about them? Does the story flow well? Description - too much, not enough, just right?”
Those offering feedback should make an effort to address the writer’s particular concerns, and should take time to craft a worthwhile critique. Give unto others as you would have given unto you. (Recommend you avail yourselves of Adair Lara's critiquing playbook, offered here under "A useful tool..." It gives you all you need to be a helpful reader.)
A writer may post his or her work simply for the act of sharing. It is an unwritten aim of Tier II to showcase excellent writing. If you do not wish feedback please say so at the outset. If others feel moved to comment these should be brief, clear, supportive.
Writers may share articles or book reviews or personal opinions about books and authors or any subject related to writing, again provided the discussion is written with care and thought.
Tier II is not meant to replace its older, friskier sister, TWG. It is the result of a need that arose organically, naturally as the original group grew and evolved. Ideally the groups will operate in tandem, with members crossing back and forth depending on the discussion at hand.
