by
Julie Demoff-Larson
Close your eyes and imagine what your ideal writing
community would look like. What, you have never considered such a thing? I know.
I get it. Most of us who write do so after the work day is over or on the
weekend in solitary confinement. We etch out poems, stories, and the great
American novel while huddled in some nook where no one can see the anguish and
torment we put ourselves through. When we think we have something good, we send
it out, then wait as we start the writing cycle all over again. It is easy to
become a writing miser, hoarding pencils and journals instead of investing in a
literary scene. So, why is it so hard to have both?
For me, I foresee a vibrant literary scene in
Northwest Indiana. There is a small foundation already set in place by many
writing groups and organizations. For example, Indiana Writers’ Consortium
members host a variety of independent writing groups that workshop regularly
(Highland Writers Group, Write-On Hoosiers, Magic Hour Writers) and there are
more and more opportunities for reading at open-mics hosted by coffee shops and
art galleries. These events are fantastic, but is this enough to call it a lit
scene?
Within the urban literary scene, participants can
expect to find numerous venues hosting readings, book signings, oral
interpretations, and poetry slams. There are also literary journals, creative
writing workshops, book sales, and thriving independent bookstores. Centered in
the middle of the urban literary scene is the all-encompassing community
writing center from which writers of all ages benefit. When I close my eyes, I
imagine Northwest Indiana buzzing with live lit events and writers working
together in the community. But what steps can we take to get to this point?
First and foremost, we must all put in time. Yes,
time. It only takes a few moments to share an event on Facebook or to retweet a
fellow writer’s newly published work. This is a “we are all in this together”
mentality, and baby steps will eventually mature into strides. A supportive
writing community is essential for IWC to successfully implement new projects
in the future. Member participation in local events help foster a relationship
between associates and the general public. As public involvement increases, the
IWC will develop new programs that will benefit the community.
Don’t underestimate the value of what you have to
offer as a writer. We all have dreams and most of us want to play a part in something
important. Maybe you wish to teach others about poetry or to inspire the next generation
of writers. Maybe you hope to provide a space where writers can experiment with
words in front of a crowd or to start a small press. Whatever your ideas, send
them to Indiana Writers’ Consortium and let’s work together to create a space
for us all to thrive creatively.
Close your eyes again. Imagine your ideal writing
community. Now make it happen.
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