ENGL 271 Workshopping Guidelines

We will be workshopping every week from now on. Normally we will have work to give our group the week before so they have time to spend with it. For next class, bring something short (1 – 2 pages) to workshop on the spot and 2 – 4 pages for the week following. If you can coordinate over email, your selection can be longer (à 4 pages).

Remember that the workshopping goal is to improve everyone’s writing; all that goes on should be to that end. It should not be a forum to show off so bring work that you want your group to make marks on and fix up; do not bring a poem that is a precious jewel you have perfected over years. Workshopping is not a forum to pat each other on the back and say “That’s great”—you can say that, but you also have to be a tough editor and help make it better. On the other hand, be aware that too much criticism might overwhelm an author so be aware of their process.

When your writing is being workshopped, remember that you are the artist and you have the final call on changes. However, it is an opportunity to have three other good readers help edit your work so take advantage of it to its fullest.

From now on attendance is crucial but, just in case, share emails or phone numbers so that if someone misses, they can stay in the workshopping loop.

Work hard at making a good chemistry—workshopping is the single best way to improve your writing so personally make sure your group is clicking.

Author responsibilities:

            --choose 2 – 4 pages of your work and print 4 copies to bring to your group

            --choose work that is not a rough first draft but something you want help with

            --at the workshop read the work aloud (or at least part of it)

            --as the group comments, make notes but do not make ‘rebuttals’

            --take the verbal and written comments with you and consider them at home,

            leaving or taking the advice

Reader responsibilities:

            --make notes / edits on the printed page

            --comment on parts / elements that are working and not working

            --be comprehensive; the more you write the better

            --at the workshop verbally mention the most important points

--work within the parameters of what the author is trying to do; simply saying ‘I do not like this kind of poem’ does nothing to help the author

--at all times be respectful of the author