Critique Workshop

This 5-week workshop will explore the mental and emotional aspects of giving and receiving critique, coupled with practical instruction for how to constructively inspire a positive revision experience that supports peers in their creative growth. In addition to weekly written content (starting August 1st), participants will have the opportunity to swap written material for critique practice and discuss content via Zoom. Meetings will be recorded in order to keep the material accessible for those who miss a meeting.

DATE: August 1 — September 1

COST: $25 registration/per person Week One (August 1-7) — We’ll dig deep into our mental and emotional reactions to receiving critique so we can better understand ourselves and develop a process that enables us to bypass negative feelings and tackle revisions with confidence. Zoom on August 6th, 1-2 p.m. EST (NOTE: date changed from 4th to 6th!)

Week Two (August 8-14) — Armed with confidence, we’ll now talk about the technical aspects of how to give a critique that is enthusiastic and encouraging while still providing clear and actionable advice. Zoom on August 11th, 7-8 p.m. EST

Swap time! (August 15-31) We’ll pair off and swap short stories (or a chapter from a novel, whichever you prefer!) to practice everything we’ve learned. Note, this period has no Zoom so that everyone can focus on critique and revisions.

Regroup (September 1) — We’ll wrap up with a longer Zoom session to discuss what feedback was helpful and what wasn’t, so that we can continue to develop our critique methods and further support each other toward a fully revised draft. Zoom on September 1st, 7-9 p.m. EST

*Day time meetings will be considered if multiple participants are outside the U.S.