I’m organizing a writing group. First meeting is next Thursday at 8pm (location TBD). The group is for writers of all ages to share their work free of being judged. I’ll be facilitating a safe space where artists are encouraged to take risks. If your risks don’t pay off, we can discuss whether you should stay. If you’re asked not to continue with us, please don’t be discouraged- writing is not for everyone. Just try to figure out before showing up whether you’re talented. If the group finds your writing to be irksome, there might be a problem, although don’t ever let that deter you from contributing- just reconsider why you had the audacity to think you were good. My only request is that you approach us with an open heart and willingness to take constructive criticism from actual decent writers who share your passion for language. Please don’t be late. If you’re late, you will receive a warning. Two warnings and you’re out. And do NOT bring haikus. The last thing the group wants to listen to is your 7-5-7 “construction” about brown pelicans. This will be a group dedicated to liberating your deepest, darkest impulses, so make sure your shit is exciting. And tight. Don’t yabber on with a short story about how your great-grandmother spent three years in an internment camp. Yawwwn. Write about zombies and fuckin jet planes if you want us to get into it. Just don’t be afraid to let go and be vulnerable, and, most of all, to not sound gay. Please join us. Bring $350 cash and an eraser.

Craig Baldo

“We are all writers. Only some of us are awesome.” –Dean Koontz