"Writing became such a process of discovery that I couldn't wait to get to work in the morning: I wanted to know what I was going to say."
Sharon O'Brien
Mentoring
All writers benefit from feedback. Seeking it, however, can create intense "anxiety" exposing your writing to third-party criticism can leave you feeling as vulnerable as a freshly hatched turtle. And there's no doubt about it, a heartless attack can shatter your ego and put you off writing for life. But don't let this natural fear of criticism hold you back. Sooner or later you'll need to expose yourself to the elements of appraisal and debate if your writing is to reach an audience of more than one. And if you choose your commentators with care, you'll come away from the experience of being critiqued both enlightened and profoundly uplifted.
Some writers are fortunate enough to belong to a writing group and it's from the feedback of like-minded group members that they awaken to the strengths and weaknesses of their work. Others turn to friends with a literary bent or they badger family members for coaching, with varying levels of success. And finally there are those who call on the services of a writing consultant "or mentor" to gain important insight into their work.
This is where I step in.
Coaching has its uses at all stages of the writing process:
- When a story is finished but not quite "there".
- When an early draft is proving problematic.
- When the words won't come and the writer needs fresh motivation.
- When a completed manuscript needs a little final polish.
I can offer advice both on works-in-progress and on completed manuscripts. I will give an honest assessment of your work and point you in the right direction for further improvement. And if you think you'd benefit from additional feedback after further drafting and rewriting, I can offer my services again.
Fees for the appraisal service:
Fiction and short stories: SG $100 per hour.