Community engagement and feedback is at the heart of what we do. Here are some pointers for keeping the space safe, energised and considerate.
While writing and sharing is hugely therapeutic, we don't do therapy at the LRC, and the comments should be confined to helping each other improve the effectiveness of the writing. We do not give advice on life choices and dilemmas.
The feedback needs to be considered, respectful and honest. There is always something that is working in the piece, and there is usually something that can be improved. It is good practice to comment on both. Be aware that reading your work to others is an act of vulnerability, and we need to receive the work in a generous, open-hearted, open-minded, non-judgemental way.Â
Feedback might vary, or differ – this can be interesting and authors will decide for themselves what they will incorporate. There can be many points of view at the same time. Creative practice teaches us that there is not only one right way to write.
Feedback is a form of editing, which can be creative in itself. In learning to comment on other people’s work, we grow our capacity to better evaluate our own. Consider bringing the same piece that you have edited back to the forum for further comment.
Stay curious
Withhold judgement
Step down from the ladder of hierarchy and into the circle of community