I was worried that I’d miss the monthly Insecure Writer’s Support Group post as I’ve struggled for weeks with worsening health issues from wheelchair sores to hand cramps and finger failings – not conducive to writing. Mouse clicking is often the most I can do when I access the PC.

If you’re reading this I’ve pushed with pained doggedness onto the monthly question, so please prepare for more weirdness

But first I must thank the Ninja Captain, Alex J. Cavanaugh for all he does – and thanks for creating the Insecure Writer’s Support Group without whom my writing would be non-existent…and every post might be ‘farewell’.

And thanks to all those whose encouraging comments ensure I scribble onwards. Apologies for failing to reply to every comment. I try at least to press ‘like’ when I’ve read them. I do attempt an all-inclusive answer sometimes.

Finally, don’t forget to visit more active writers via the IWSG site, and to read better answers to this month’s intriguing question.

Insecure Writer’s Support Group

Although the question is optional, I’m again tempted to answer.

February 2 question – Is there someone who supported or influenced you that perhaps isn’t around anymore? Anyone you miss?

A: Roger Woddis and Rhona Martin

“Terror, no need to add,

Depends on who’s wearing the hood.”

Extract from ‘Ethics for everyman’ – a poem by roger woddis

The late Roger Woddis, my first creative writer tutor. Although he was a notable left-wing poet and magazine contributor, he also ran creative writing classes in London. He encouraged me to write regularly and tempered my purple prose. I was a besotted Tolkien fan and tried/failed to emulate his fantasy style. I admit that a few recent scribblings have been ‘over-egged’, but I try to restrain my inner bard. Maybe I’m learning… still.

Here is more info on Roger Woddis:

https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Roger_Woddis

https://en-academic.com/dic.nsf/enwiki/3950255

https://gloriousvoicecoaching.wordpress.com/2016/03/23/ethics-for-everyman-a-poem-by-roger-woddis/

The late Rhona Martin was the leader of the Novel Group within Tunbridge Wells & District Writing Circle back in the UK. Over a few years, when I was writing the early drafts of Spiral of Hooves, my only published novel, I read extracts to the group. Rhona’s comments were insightful and invaluable, and she helped me turn the novel from a rambling multi-part epic into a tightly woven tale, albeit still complex.

Rhona was a published historical fiction writer, and the winner of the First Georgette Heyer Historical Novel Prize with Gallows Wedding. So, she also fanned my interest in the genre.

https://bookshop.org/contributors/rhona-martin

https://discoveringdiamonds.blogspot.com/2017/01/gallows-wedding-by-rhona-martin.html

https://www.thriftbooks.com/a/rhona-martin/262472/

“I think myself I ought to be shot for writing such nonsense…. But it’s unquestionably good escapist literature and I think I should rather like it if I were sitting in an air-raid shelter or recovering from flu. “

Georgette Heyer after she had completed Friday’s Child, her first “instant bestseller”, written in 1944.

The awesome co-hosts for the February 2 posting of the IWSG are Joylene Nowell Butler, Jacqui Murray, Sandra Cox, and Lee Lowery!

How can I be repetitive asking you to agree these guys are the best? Well, they are – especially as they all have concerns, fears, and insecurities. But they struggle on, so ticker-tape applause for all of them – plus toasts with the best brew available.

Purpose of IWSG: To share and encourage. Writers can express doubts and concerns without fear of appearing foolish or weak. Those who have been through the fire can offer assistance and guidance. It’s a safe haven for insecure writers of all kinds!

Every month, we announce a question that members can answer in their IWSG post. These questions may prompt you to share advice, insight, a personal experience or story. Include your answer to the question in your IWSG post or let it inspire your post if you are struggling with something to say.

Posting: The first Wednesday of every month is officially Insecure Writer’s Support Group day. Post your thoughts on your own blog. Talk about your doubts and the fears you you have conquered. Discuss your struggles and triumphs. Offer a word of encouragement for others who are struggling. Visit others in the group and connect with your fellow writer – aim for a dozen new people each time – and return comments. This group is all about connecting!

Let’s rock the neurotic writing world!

Our Twitter handle is @TheIWSG and hashtag is #IWSG.

Every month, we announce a question that members can answer in their IWSG post. These questions may prompt you to share advice, insight, a personal experience, or story. Include your answer to the question in your IWSG post or let it inspire your post if you are struggling with something.

For more on the IWSG monthly post and links to other participants visit:

https://www.insecurewriterssupportgroup.com/p/iwsg-sign-up.html