A few weeks ago, I started a workshop in my city. Just had the first meeting. I've actually become very comfortable speaking to a group because, I guess, I just grew up at some point, but there's still something stressful about having anyone read my work, particularly aloud, particularly with other people looking on, etc., and I had no choice about that because we only had one other member bring anything to read this time around. (Everyone had first time jitters? Whatever.) So I'll put that down as one of the frightening things that still remain in this world.
Every two weeks, theoretically. We had way too many people interested to have just one, though, so there are two right now--maybe more or less, in the long run, depending on whether they grow or if people maybe decide it's not for them. I found the critique of my piece a little odd. I usually have a pretty negative view of my own work (less so lately), but I really didn't get any comments other than people saying that the opening really pulled them in. I guess that was gratifying, in a sense. It also makes me wonder if I'm just scary or something.
I think giving critique in-person is awkward, and even more so when you've only just met. I'd imagine it will get more constructive as time goes on.
