Look, it’s OK if you’re not writing. I’m not here to pressure you to be productive or make you feel bad about yourself. I get it: we’re all coping with the pandemic in our own ways. Writing may not be in the cards for you right now. Do what you need to do to make it through.
That said, if you do want to write and need a little push or a bit of support, then read on. I’m going to tell you about something called “The 100-Word Writing Group.”
Books get written bit by bit. Word by word. Or, in my case, 100 words at a time.
Together with 6 other writers, I belong to a 100-Word Writing Group. You get the picture: 7 writers = 1 day per writer.
Every day 100 words land in my inbox and onto our shared Google doc. This next part is important, so take it to heart: The 100-Word Writing Group is not a critique group or workshop. The 100-Word Writing Group is about being part of a writing community; it’s about writing not production, if that makes sense… Comments may be shared, but only privately, and only words of encouragement.
Sometimes I read the 100 words that arrive each day and sometimes I don’t: the elasticity, low-pressure quality of this whole thing is key. Still, even if I’m too swamped or distressed or busy to read everything, I’m always aware that my friends and colleagues are writing and that my day to share is coming. And when it does (Tuesdays), I send the other 6 members of the group a small piece of whatever I’m working on. I don’t give context for the fragment and never explain. I just grab or write 100 new words that don’t feel too embarrassing and send them off.
I hear you: Of what use are 100 words? It’s not even half a page!
True. 100 is not a lot of words. BUT it can be enough to get you rolling. I often have to force myself to write on Tuesdays (which were teaching days this semester) but often I end up writing way more, despite myself.
Here’s the point: If you’re wanting to write but are having trouble, consider forming such a group. (If not, well, see above.)
Here’s also the point: Books, essays, and stories get written 100 words at a time.
Happy writing, fragment by fragment
[Photo: Väylä]
