Nonfiction/Magazine Writing Group Guidelines

Mission Statement
To promote nonfiction writing primarily by providing support and guidance to dedicated writers of short literary nonfiction essays, magazine articles and columns. We encourage group members in their pursuit of publication in whatever form it may take through a regular forum for detailed, constructive critiques, sharing of work, through the discipline of regular presentations.

Guidelines
1. The focus of this group will include traditionally reported magazine articles as well as literary nonfiction, including essays, creative nonfiction, memoir and columns. Experimental forms are not our focus, but are welcome.

2. We generally meet once a month on the last Thursday evening of the month in west Knoxville, and we look for commitment to regular attendance and participation.
3. Members submit on a rotating basis and while the schedule may be flexible to individual needs, we expect that each member will be submitting regularly.
4. If the group gets too large, say 8 people or more, we will need to adjust the way the group operates or consider breaking into two groups.

5. Generally, two writers’ submit a piece about one week before that month’s meeting via the group’s google group list. Each reviewer provides written and oral critiques as well as editorial comments on the hard copy at the meeting.
6. We will be honest, diplomatic and constructive, with the goal of helping each other improve our work.
7. Because submissions are made by e-mail, and the group members stay in touch for writing support between meetings via a google group, potential members must be computer literate.
8. We strive for long-term participation to create a nurturing, productive and supportive group of dedicated nonfiction writers.

9. All Nonfiction/Magazine Writing Group members must be current dues-paying members of the Knoxville Writers' Guild.

10. Admission is by application and invitation. Those interested should submit a brief bio describing their writing history and interests as well as their reasons for wanting to join the group to the group facilitator. They should also provide two writing samples. The subject line of the e-mail to the facilitator should include “KWG nonfiction writing group.” The facilitator will distribute the materials to the group members, which will come to a consensus and inform the applicant.