Maine Irish Writes: January

We are thrilled to present our second season of Maine Irish Writes, an inclusive monthly writers’ group that will meet in the MIHC Library on the first Thursday of each month!

Led by the incredible poet and author Robert Breen, this welcoming writers group is open to all—whether you’re just starting out or deep into a manuscript. Bring your works in progress, share your voice, and receive supportive, thoughtful feedback in a relaxed and inspiring setting. Together, we’ll explore storytelling, poetry, memory, and the written word in all its forms. Come to listen, come to write, come to connect.

A few notes on the format of these Writers’ Group meetings:

For all interested writers

Determine your goal, the primary target for your project— fiction, poetry, nonfiction, memoir or autobiography.

For beginners this will be a discovery time, your goal should be to have fun with this phase.

Take time and have patience with yourself!

We ask that all members actively bring work to participate in each session

Those that have work ready will be heard— with a 10-minute reading time and critique so to allow all to be heard.

Have your written piece of literature with 3 copies allowing the group to follow and partake in the evaluation of the work.

Writer’s Technique Method Used

The Layer Cake Method is a classic technique used to deliver constructive criticism without causing defensiveness. And keep the writer motivated while highlighting areas that need improvement.

(Positive): Start with genuine praise. Highlight a specific strength, like a strong voice, sharp dialogue, or an engaging hook.

(Constructive): Insert the critique or area for improvement. Focus on actionable issues like pacing lags, confusing plot points, or passive verbs. Poetry example- the use of metaphors, and forms.

(Upbeat): End with encouragement and forward momentum. Reiterate your belief in the story or poem express excitement to read the next draft.

Check out the rest of the series dates HERE!