Hello thread. I just resubscribed to this thread. I may never contribute, but it feels odd to me to lurk without announcing my presence. So, I am here enjoying the spicy writer brains.

Erika, of course what Amy said. I just wanted to add that you have a unique voice and personality and it is worth your time and frustration to continue the work. If you hated the last writing group, try try again, and again. I have no clue whatsoever what I am talking about, but likely you have to keep trying different groups until you find a good fit. And then you likely will outgrow that group or get chased out by the angry mob and will have to seek another.

Hot tea with no carb goodness on the side:

Nice article about Nancy! I love the 5 years, times up element. How often things happen at just the last moment.

There's a Laura in the thread! I like that!

Subjunctive Check:

It would be easier to sort the boxes if there was a master list

or

It would be easier to sort the boxes if there were a master list

I cannot get either to sound completely right or wrong, even though I'm leaning toward the first.

I believe was is correct, but were sounds better to my ear. t not helpful

The first is right. A master list is possible; it's neither contrary to fact nor a wish, so it's not subjunctive. If sentences start worrying me like that, I usually consider rewording, e.g., "A master list would make it easier to sort the boxes."

Thanks, guys.

I shall rise
I shall rise
Clean the night from my eyes
Scatter nightmares to the skies

I shall rise
I shall rise
Firm resolution to be wise
No more faltering into lies

I shall
rise

I shall
rise

Reject that which
Nullifies

I shall. . .
I shall. . .

Rise.

Seek that which purifies

(o silence amplifies my guise)

I shall rise I shall rise!
Break
these ties

I will. . .

I. . .

Will. . .

will dies

Wow.

thanks. Any tips, crits, etc. I wrote it last night, so it's rough