It’s a Dangling Modifier, You Idiot! from James W. Ziskin

Have you ever been in a critique group and, if so, what was most/least useful to you. Put together your dream critique group?

I’ve never been in a writer’s critique group, and I confess I wouldn’t like to be. I imagine the participants hate/disdain/ridicule their fellow writers’ work, openly or—perhaps—secretly. There’s surely lots of scoffing, pooh-poohing, and downright gagging going on. Unless the critics are too polite to say anything negative at all. Then they just smile a mirthless smile and dole out platitudes with a ladle.

Which is probably for the best since I doubt those receiving feedback take it well. Oh, they might put on a brave face and try to act like mature adults. But, more likely than not, they’re seething inside. 

“Who does that hack think he is? I’ll go all Norman Mailer on his ass. Just see if I don’t…”

Scenes from a critique group…

— KILL YOUR DARLINGS!
— NEVER!

IT’S A DANGLING MODIFIER, YOU IDIOT!

YOUR NARRATOR IS HEAD-HOPPING!

I imagine my esteemed writer friends will object to my characterization of critique groups, and I heartily encourage dissent in the comment section below.

A Confession

But, if I’m being honest, my comments above are a deflection. To tell the truth, my ego is far too fragile ever to allow me to join a critique group. I simply can’t share my work with anyone before I’m ready. And when it’s finally time, I rely on trusted beta readers to give me feedback because I’m too chicken to risk negative critiques from other writers.

Write on!