Twenty Something Writers

Hey everyone! Thanks for an awesome first week here on Twenty Something Writers. Before we head into week two, we want to clear a few things up and let you know of some more ways you can contribute.

First, we’re interested in offering the most diverse content we can. That means that we’re open to all genres of writing and all different mediums (text, picture, video). If you’re not seeing the kind of content you’re interested in, then consider filling in the gaps by contributing! You absolutely retain the rights to anything you contribute, and we’ll give you credit for any prompts or questions you suggest.

Second, this blog is yours. So, there is no review process for contributions. Some of us are leading, and we do exercise some control over content–specifically, what to post when. But, your writing doesn’t have to meet a certain standard in order to be featured. Of course we hope you’ll contribute your best work and take the time to edit, but don’t worry about your contributions not being good enough. This is a collective effort and we want everyone to be heard.

Third, remember that you can send in all of your contributions and suggestions and ideas to twentysomethingwriters[at]gmail[dot]com. For now, it’s mostly just me (Ashley) responding. If I don’t get back to you right away, I’m sorry. I will definitely respond, and you can always email me again or bother me on twitter until I do. It would help me out if you could be as specific in your emails as possible.

Fourth, for those of you who are still a little uncertain of what we’re looking for or how you can contribute, let me list the ways!

• Discussion Questions: I think we all had a good time with questions this week. Questions should somehow be related to writing. This is your chance to ask other writers anything, so send in your question suggestions!
• Writing Prompts: Writing prompts are a little more open. The prompt might involve writing, and in that way be similar to a discussion question, though the responses will be longer in form. Or, you can ask a question unrelated to writing that will elicit creative writing responses.
• Blog Posts: If you’re considering contributing a blog post, keep in mind that the theme is writing, so we’re interested in any spin you might have on that. You can offer up your expertise on a subject, tell a personal story about writing, talk about your own writing style, etc. Blog posts should be about writing, but there are tons of different approaches you might take.
• Writing Excerpts: Let us know if you’re interested in contributing a piece of creative writing. We’re not sure exactly how this will work, but it could go a number of ways. If you’re interested in getting critical feedback on your writing, then you could specify that, but otherwise we’ll just put it up for readers to appreciate.
• Interviews: Liz had the idea to interview other writers. You might interview a professor, a professional writer, or even another blogger (consider especially those who participate here). Just make sure to get their permission to post the answers, and try to keep writing as the theme of the interview. You can submit interviews in text format or even video.
• Just About Anything Else: Remember that the only criterion is that content must in some way be related to writing. We’re trying to inspire creativity–not stifle it! So, if you have an idea, let us know. You absolutely do not have to stick to the above categories.

Fifth, we’d appreciate your continued help with promoting the blog, especially to people you know are interested in writing. Thanks to those of you who have helped us out this week!

Sixth, we’re really trying to make this a community, so if you have the time, respond to the other writers here, check out their blogs, give them your feedback, and try to get to know them. Many of you are already going above and beyond on this!

Seventh, we’ll try not to post administrative stuff like this too often. But, we consider this blog an open process, so we always want your input.

Finally, give us your feedback on week one. What’s working and what isn’t? We intend for the content to be more diverse in weeks to come (as we get more contributions from you), so let us know what you want to see. And, if you have nothing to say about the writing blog, tell us what writing you’re working on or what you’re up to this weekend.