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When To Leave Your Critique Group
by Lorraine Bartlett
I've belonged to a number of critique groups over the years, and it seems to
me that at some point in your relationship with your group, there comes a
time to leave.
Why does a mutually satisfying group suddenly implode? Here are a few
warning signs:
 Ego. One member designates him/herself as leader. When this happens,
the critique can take on an aggressive slant, which is not only devastating
to the one being critiqued, but detrimental to the survival of the group,
especially when other members allow these bullying tactics.
Ineffective feedback. Warning signs are phrases such as, "Wow, this was
great" with no other reaction. Your manuscript pages are returned to you
with no notations (even typos aren't circled). Either your work isn't being
taken seriously, or your critique partners are inexperienced and are not yet
capable of delivering an effective critique.
Members aren't committed to the group's goals and don't make their
writing, or their attendance at meetings, a priority.
Personality clashes. Even people who've worked in a critique group for
years can suddenly find friction when one member begins to sell. Jealousy
and a sense of competition are the death knell to a good working relationship.
The members are of such diverse skill levels that the most experienced
writer ends up in the role of mentor. This can work against the group if
members are resentful--both the mentor and those in the role of student.
Lack of honesty. When members feel they can't discuss their feelings on
the quality of the critique they receive, you have a serious communications
problem.
I've dealt with all the above in the four groups I've belonged to over the
years. The hardest thing for me was deciding when to leave. And in nearly
every instance, I stayed far longer than I should have. My excuse was that I
had no other critique alternative. However, when you no longer receive
effective feedback, it's better to cut your losses and look for a new group.
Belonging to a larger writers group (such as the Guppies) can be your saving
grace. There will always be another writer looking to hone her writing
skills, and critiquing dance begins again.
While it's true that great friendships can be established with members of
your group, it's also important to remember that if you strive to be
professionally published, the relationship should be viewed as one of a
business nature. Your mother, significant other, and/or best friend can play
cheerleader. What a critique groups should give you is a helping hand to
publication.
© 2001 by Lorraine Bartlett
This article originally appeared in First Draft, Newsletter of the Sisters In Crime Special Interest Group, Guppies, March 2001
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