I got the beautiful opportunity to interview Louis, facilitator for The Storytellers' Anthology group that happens in Garden every other Saturday at 1pm PST! Part literary aficionado, and part community steward, Louis created this group for the writers striving to create their very best work. Below, learn more about them and what this group is really all about! RSVP for The Storytellers Anthology!
Until next our avatars meet,
🪻 J Mase
Can you tell us what is your relationship to writing?
Louis: My relationship to writing is more than a relationship. It's a way of life. Stories have been a part of my life since I was a child. For me, they showed up in a variety of mediums--TV, Radio, and even music. But the art and act of writing stories myself didn't become reality until I was around 11 or 12. It was at that time when I decided that I was going to be an author. It's the only mode of communication that allows me to navigate the Black experience in a speculative fashion.
Why did you create The Storytellers Anthology?
Louis: I created The Storytellers' Anthology for a few reasons. For one, I wanted to build a community with and for Black and BIPOC authors. Because the stories I write center on Black people and the Black experience, I'm not comfortable having my work critiqued by White writers. I feel they won't appreciate it. Plus, I go out of my way to read stories written by Black and BIPOC authors because our storytelling is very much connected to our history and ancestry. So, I want nothing more than to connect with others who appreciate storytelling that reflects Black and BIPOC culture authentically. Another reason is that I wanted a space where we could support each other's dreams of becoming published authors or at least improve our chances of being published. Every author I've read or know thanks their writing group for providing feedback on their stories. We need an extra pair of eyes and feedback from fellow writers to bring attention to a story's strengths and where improvements are needed. Constructive feedback is very important for authors wanting to share their work with the world. I hope The Storytellers' Anthology is a place where authors feel comfortable doing so.
I think there's something beautiful about having the space for critique and growth. How do you support writers in leaning into critique? Are there different types of critique that can be good for writers?
Louis: I or another member asks how they wish for their work to be critiqued. I've learned during the process that different writers are looking for different types of feedback. For instance, one writer may want to know what parts of the story works and what doesn't. Another may have done research for their story and may want to know whether the information used for their story lands on paper. We've had a couple of people who presented ideas for a story and just asked for feedback on the premise itself. So, there are many ways to provide feedback on those who come through. As long as we're all respectful of one another, the critique sheds light on the story's strengths and its need for improvements, and suggestions are given that could strengthen the story.
What do you hope people gain from this group, and who should come?
Louis: At the beginning, I was just hoping for authors to have a safe supportive space to strengthen their work through constructive feedback--especially if they wished to be published. Since my conversation with you [J Mase] however, I'm now going to make The Storytellers' Anthology an online community resource space for authors. I'm going to create a Padlet account where I and other members can post resources related to writing and the publishing industry. I'm talking about literary journals, YouTube videos featuring published authors (indie and traditional). Writing prompts, podcasts, weekly themes. There will also be a space where we could showcase those who attend The Storytellers' Anthology who've been published since attending the workshop. In fact, if there's anyone who wants to do a presentation on their favorite author, that could be something to do as well. As far as who should come, the group is open to anyone who has a story or idea who wants honest, but respectful feedback and is looking for an online literary resource. The Storytellers' Anthology meets on the first and third of each month. However, consistent attendance isn't mandatory. If folks wish to only come once, then that's fine too. All I ask is that you spread the word about The Storytellers' Anthology so folks know it's available.
I hear you're having a showcase on Feb 28th at group. What should people come prepared to share?
Louis: Yeah! So, we'll be having a showcase towards the end of February that'll be open to all writers in Garden. People can bring short stories or poems they wish to share. It doesn't matter what genre their work falls in. I'm looking forward to putting that together. In fact, this is something I can plan with some of the Anthology regulars!
RSVP for The Storytellers Anthology group in Garden! Every other Saturday at 1pm PST and hosted by Louis!
PS: Have a one-time-event or a recurring event and need a place to host? Email us at info@meetatgarden.com!
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