By Rick Iekel
So, you’ve written something and you’re just not sure if it’s good as it could be. You really need someone to look it over, but, (Oh no!) I couldn’t possibly have one of my friends see it. They would probably just tell me how much they like it and that wouldn’t help. Who knows what they might think? They might even tell one of their friends how dumb I am.
Welcome to the LCRW Critique session. Three times each year, members have a chance to turn 2500 words of their manuscript over to six or seven other members who will read what you gave them and offer an objective review of your words. And you will do the same for them. Several important points guide each reviewer in the process. For example:
Reviewer should comment on the content, not the person who wrote it.
Remember, this is their story. Don’t try to make it yours.
Take it from me, this is an excellent way to learn from the valuable insight of the LCRW membership and their sensitivity to your hard work. One fine day, I heard about this critiquing process and submitted one of my short essays that was about people, the Adirondacks, kayaking, and the great outdoors. Returned to me a few days later were about a half dozen or so reviews offering wonderful feedback about my written words and some great ideas to consider to improve the piece.
Not everyone will see what you write the way you see it. Some may give advice you decide not to follow. After all, it was you who wrote it in the first place. But, when three or four members make the same suggestion, THAT is worth hearing. You would be smart to make the suggested changes.
This may be the opportunity that you’ve been looking for.
One review session is offered to any author without becoming a group member. Try it. You might like it. Our next critique is July 18, 2026. Please contact us via the contact page on this site to get rules and dates for the July submissions.
Lilac City Rochester Writers 