Writers dilemmas -- the battle against isolation

Meeting creative people in the Carbon County area isn't easy. People live far apart and, between work and family obligations, most of us have to drive quite a bit. This past weekend was a good one for me because my writing activities gave me the opportunity to talk with others who write -- and they live just a few minutes away from me.

One of the biggest problems faced by many writers is the sense of isolation that accompanies the job. It's very difficult to be focused and meet deadlines when other people are around -- but passing hours along at the computer screen can be awfully lonely. Writing groups and workshops can be a key resource for writers fighting this battle. Workshops provide an amazing opportunity to meet people with common interests and experiences. You might see the same people in the video store or the gas station, but you're unlikely to discover your shared interest.

My work over the past few years with the Liberties Scribblers writing group in Philadelphia has been a valuable source of inspiration. Other writers in the group bring a great deal of insight and humor to our discussions. Members' critiques of my work have helped me polish projects and see creative possibilities I never imagined for myself. My great hope is that over time, I will be able to build the same kind of writing network in the Carbon County area. So if you're down by the creek writing alone, drop me a line.