The online writing community at Daily Kos has launched a new initiative called the Fiction Works-in-Progress diary. This platform provides a space for writers to showcase their microfiction, serialized stories, and excerpts from larger works. Participants are encouraged to share their creative endeavors weekly, fostering collaboration and constructive feedback.
Writers can post their chapters and excerpts as comments within the Fiction Works-in-Progress diaries, allowing readers to engage with their evolving narratives. To help readers track ongoing projects, writers are instructed to use the header format tool to highlight the titles of their works. This structured approach not only enhances visibility but also promotes a sense of continuity week after week.
For those seeking feedback, it is essential to clearly indicate this in bold text. Constructive criticism is encouraged, meaning responses should be actionable and sincere. For instance, instead of simply stating, “this protagonist is terrible,” feedback can focus on emotional connection, such as, “I didn’t feel a connection to your protagonist.” This method ensures that advice is both helpful and focused on improvement.
Writers are reminded to consider their comfort level with receiving feedback before inviting critique. This community aims to maintain a positive atmosphere where members can share their writing journeys and indulge in their passion for storytelling.
The collaborative nature of this series allows writers to take turns as diarists. Each participant must copy the previous week’s boilerplate text into their draft and follow specific guidelines for tagging their work. Tags such as FictionWIP, Readers&Booklovers, and writing help categorize the entries, making it easier for followers to discover new content.
When the time comes for publication, writers simply need to locate their drafts, publish them, and share the resulting URL in the comments section for wider reach. This process not only democratizes the publishing experience but also encourages a vibrant exchange of ideas and narratives.
It’s important to note that many publishers and literary agents may not accept manuscripts that have been shared publicly online, as this could lead to potential copyright issues. Therefore, those interested in professional publication are advised to exercise caution before sharing their work on platforms like Daily Kos. Conversely, for writers who plan to self-publish or do not intend to submit their work elsewhere, sharing may pose minimal risk.
Writers engaged in this initiative are encouraged to actively participate in posting these diaries, contributing to a dynamic and supportive environment. The Fiction Works-in-Progress diary is more than just a platform; it is a community where writers can grow together, enhancing their craft through collaboration and shared experiences.
