Logging into an online writing and or publishing chatroom can be detrimental to a new or struggling writer's ego.
When I first discovered mIRC.org's Writing chatroom several years ago, I thought I'd be among writers of varying skill sets, and perhaps there would be a few seasoned (published) writers offering feedback and guidance.
The reality fell far below my perhaps naïve expecations. I encountered bitter, hateful, stalled people who couldn't diagram a sentence, let alone write a poem or short story.
More so than not, those who'd schedule their evening or weekend hours around the time a majority of chatters logged on, were hobbyists, or writing groupies. They ignored their family, friends, and in some instances household chores to bitch, moan, and complain about movies or books they thought were below their standards.
When challenged with how they'd change the script or manuscript, a collective silence fell over the chatroom. Silence was golden until someone attacked the person (damn upstart) who wanted clarification or that the complainant defend their position.
Writers write. Writing is a solitary act. Writing can be taught over a period of time. There are no magic pills, formulas, injections, or secret societies where one can emerge a published writer. Writing is WORK! Writing requires discipline, sacrifice (family, friends, loved ones, exercise), and continual education.
Online writing chatroom groupies miss the boat. I readily admit my mistake of seeking support and encouragement from anonymous online personas I'd never meet.
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