BACKGROUND
For more than a decade, I have been working one-on-one with poets and novelists to complete their projects. I consider it a privilege to see books in their unfinished stages. I have offered manuscript consultations and productivity coaching through New York University's continuing education program, the 92nd Street Y's Unterberg Poetry Center, OneRoom, and Black Lawrence Press as well as on my own. Please explore the options below, and let me know if you have any questions.
NOVEL WRITING GROUP
If you are trying to finish a draft of your novel, you might find my writing group to be useful. For the past six years, I have been working with novelists through OneRoom, which has now shuttered, but I have kept the group running. The focus is on motivation and productivity rather than feedback (although group members do exchange chapters from time to time). When you sign up, we develop a personalized plan for success together based on your goals. Then I check on you regularly to make sure that you are on track and to answer any questions. There are three primary components:
Group membership is limited to 14, and there are currently 4 spots open. The rate is $55 per month. If you'd like more information, feel free to reach out: ericawright [at] gmail [dot] com.
MANUSCRIPT CONSULTATION
In my favorite craft essay, “Writing Off the Subject,” Richard Hugo offers the following advice: “When you are writing, glance over your shoulder, and you’ll find there is no reader. Just you and the page. Feel lonely? Good.” And it’s thrilling, isn’t it, to be in that room by yourself, working on something that matters to you. You might find as the hours (and days and months) progress that new themes emerge, new characters and conflicts. Working on a book’s first draft can feel a bit magical.
The process doesn’t end in that empty room, though. Eventually you’ll want to share your manuscript, which is why it can be helpful to work with another writer. Personally, I like the revision phase, and I hope that you can find some joy in this step, as well. Sometimes a fresh perspective is needed when trying to determine what’s missing from your book. I’m also happy to work with writers on their independently determined goals. If you think it’s time to open your door and let someone peek over your shoulder, I can help.
My consultation includes inline comments, light copyedits, and a summary letter of developmental suggestions. I am also available via email to answer any follow-up questions. Rates vary, but here is a general idea:
Novels (65,000-85,000): $850
Poetry collections (45-65 pages): $450
A 10% discount is available if you mail me a printed copy of your manuscript, and I mail that back with handwritten inline comments and copyedits (as well as a typed summary letter of developmental suggestions mailed and emailed).
I only take on one or two projects at a time, so my calendar does fill up. If you'd like more information, feel free to reach out: ericawright [at] gmail [dot] com.