Where can a new fiction writer find some help?

November 6, 2005 5:26 PM

Tell a wannabe fiction writer where to find support online.

So, yes, I'm one of those lame-o's with a handful of unfinished short stories sitting on his hard drive and, I think, a novel or two lurking in the dark recesses of his mind. I'd like to find a good online support group for new fiction writers -- supportive, constructively critical, ass-kicking when necessary, etc. Any recommendations?

posted by shallowcenter to writing & language (9 comments total)

Perhaps you'd be interested in National Novel Writing Month, particularly their forums.
posted by odinsdream at 5:38 PM on November 6, 2005

Absolute Write Water Cooler is probably of interest. I particularly recommend the first few months (no, really) of the thread Learn Writing With Uncle Jim, in which a creative writing teacher (and Sci Fi writer — they all tend to be genre fiction on the net, which isn't necessarily a problem) sets exercises and offers criticism and witticisms.
posted by caek at 5:44 PM on November 6, 2005

I second Absolute Write; I really like Forward Motion Writers, but it has a high proportion of science fiction/fantasy writers, which can be a good or bad thing.
posted by Jeanne at 7:02 PM on November 6, 2005

After Dinner. Not a user, but I recall it from when it launched, and did get some interesting feedback the one piece I tossed up as a feeler.
posted by stavrosthewonderchicken at 7:34 PM on November 6, 2005

If you'd prefer to read an absolutely wonderful book, try Things Feigned or Imagined.
posted by Kickstart70 at 8:13 PM on November 6, 2005

I worded that badly in terms of your question...this is a good -supplemental- resource.
posted by Kickstart70 at 8:16 PM on November 6, 2005

Readerville.com has an active community of readers and (published) writers.
posted by theora55 at 8:37 PM on November 6, 2005

Zoetrope?
posted by muckster at 8:48 PM on November 6, 2005

Critters.
posted by BorgLove at 8:57 PM on November 6, 2005