Are Writers Groups Still Relevant?

First appeared in

The Ink Drop Sept 2025

While watching an episode of Writers Drinking Whiskey on YouTube, the host and guest predicted that indie publishing is the wave of the future. I believe everyone has a story to tell. But not everyone has the skill or drive to tell it (or write it). Still there will be many people wading into the stormy waters with plenty of material to write about but unsure of how to go about it. That’s why writers' groups are needed.

Kenneth A. Stephenson

There are several types of writers groups. Many writers get together to discuss ideas they have for a novel, or to read to each other stories they have written. Others get together to talk about books they have read and authors they try to emulate. Most regard fiction as their main focus but nonfiction has a strong following. Some groups specialize in: mysteries, romance, science fiction, history, children's stories, poetry, and yes, even politics (not sure if that falls under nonfiction or fiction). And new genres are being created. Some groups specialize in writing novels, others write flash fiction.

Indie publishing means anyone can publish their work. Some would say this is vanity publishing on steroids, and to a point it is, There are some terrible self published novels out there. But it is also the best, and often only, way for a very good writer to get their manuscript published. The traditional publishers are a fickle bunch only interested in which genre is selling best today. And pushing long established authors with huge followings. Not the talented but unproven new writer. This can be extremely frustrating and without a support mechanism it can be near impossible to continue. No matter how talented the person might be. This is when a group can be invaluable, not only for encouragement but improvement.

Mid Michigan Writers is somewhat unique in that we critique each other's work (whatever the genre) in a constructive way. We want to encourage our members, certainly, but we want to assist them in improving and honing their writing skills.

Writing is a very personal endeavor and I believe most writers prefer a quiet environment to peck away at a keyboard, or put pen to paper. Still it’s just human nature to want to discuss it, to share it, to talk about it. And with the flood of new initiates, both young and old, stepping into the amazing world of writing. Writers groups may be needed now more than ever. To offer advice, encouragement and guidance and a listening ear.

Are writers groups still relevant? I say a resounding “Yes”.