Cal Archer’s column fosters a sense of community among writers, with a focus on collaboration, creative events, and low-pressure writing. As the creative community coordinator for Scribbly, Cal helps writers build connections, share ideas, and support one another through collaborative writing projects. Whether hosting creative events or sharing seasonal writing prompts, Cal encourages writers to embrace their creativity in a supportive environment. The column highlights the power of writing together, emphasising the joy of collaborative storytelling and the value of creative community.
You’re in a Facebook writing group with 500 members. You post once. Nobody replies. You scroll. You lurk. And your word count? Still zero. It’s a natural phenomenon known as social loafing, where motivation decreases as group size increases. Online groups are great for inspiration and networking. But for consistent writing progress, smaller is better.
If you’re new to the scene or if you’ve been hesitant to take the plunge, this blog is for you. We’re going to break down what writing events are all about, how to prep for them, and how you can excel while you’re there.
Prompts are like maps. They don’t dictate where you go — they just get you on the road. Some will take you a block from home. Some will lead you halfway across the country. The trick is to start walking. And because we’re The Collective Pen, I’m not just giving you prompts to keep to yourself. This is an open invitation to share your responses, swap feedback, and maybe even find a writing buddy. So, kettle on. Timer ready. Let’s get stuck in.
As a beta reader, you are not an editor, proofreader, or therapist. Your role is to read, react, and reflect on what worked for you as a reader. Agree upfront how much feedback you’ll give, how it will be delivered, and whether you’re open to follow-up questions. This protects your time, keeps expectations realistic, and ensures the relationship stays respectful.
It didn’t happen in a conference or a course. It happened on a back porch in Moreton Bay over coffee and scribbled notes with another writer who just… got it. No pretence. No performance. Just mutual respect and a willingness to say, “Hey, what if we did something together instead of separately?”
The best writers’ groups aren’t the ones with perfect attendance or polished drafts — they’re the ones where people feel safe to show up exactly as they are.
