The Power of A Good Critique

• A good critique is never judgmental or criticizing. 
  
  
• Becoming a good critiquer grows from your understanding of writing techniques and the writing process. This happens over time. The workshop inspires you to articulate why a piece of writing works and why it doesn't. The dynamic of my workshops encourages everyone to give as well as receive. 
  
  
• Receiving a "good" critique is inspiring. People often say the best critiques happen when piece isn't working. Understanding why a piece isn't working may not be obvious at the beginning. As the conversation flowers, your understanding becomes clarified and a great learning experience is had by all!

• Of course, a critique that is a unanimous "Wow, that was great!" from everyone around the table is always a welcomed experience!

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"I loved the group discussions on the retreat and I really enjoyed everyone's readings. Such richness, depth and diversity to the stories. My writing is coming easier and I feel I can go anywhere and write about anything."
                      ~Lisa Calhoon

"My biggest breakthrough on the retreat was feeling I belonged with other writers."  ~Sheila O'Conner 

"I went to Emily to find out if I was creative enough to be a writer, which was my hidden dream from childhood. This began a long process of learning to believe I was a writer, learning to get in touch with the creativity that gives birth to characters and events that move books along. It’s probably the hardest thing I’ve ever done, but I’m doing it! And I know without a doubt that I could never have done it alone. I could never have done it without Emily’s guidance and retreats." ~Rosemary Clarkin