You’re not alone!
When I started my career, I had a group of pals that would write together. We were the first generation to pull out our laptops in coffee shops and restaurants. We got lots of dirty looks but also cranked out hundreds of pages. We helped each other deal with daily creative challenges, commiserated on failed sales, and kept each other motivated. The BBQ’s we hosted on Tigertail were a blast and connected our various friend groups.
Finding a community of like-minded fellows was a game-changer for me in the often solitary world of scribbling. My tribe of fellow scribblers provided support, inspiration, and a sense of shared commitment.
So whether you're just starting out or deep into your creative journey, connecting with others who share your passion can lead to greater success and personal fulfillment.
Seek out local writing groups, online communities, local cinematic events, or create your own gathering and invite like-minded creatives. Use the group to set goals, stay accountable, and push each other to new creative heights. Foster an environment of collaboration, encouragement, and constructive criticism.
Whether big or small, celebrate the achievements of group members, fostering a positive and motivating atmosphere. Scribbling is a tough profession, and every win deserves to be acknowledged.
There is a rad tribal history of scribblers and filmmakers:
The Algonquin Round Table – A group of New York City writers, critics, and actors met for lunch each day at the Algonquin Hotel in the 1920s. This gathering led to collaborations, friendships, and an environment where creativity thrived.
The Hollywood Mavericks – George Lucas, Steven Spielberg, John Milius, Brian De Palma, and Francis Ford Coppola would party together! These filmmakers revolutionized Hollywood in the 1970s, challenging norms and supporting each other's visions. They pushed each other creatively and made the most iconic films of the era.
The Inklings – A literary group including J.R.R. Tolkien and C.S. Lewis, the Inklings met regularly to read and critique each other's work. Their camaraderie and intellectual engagement led to some of the most beloved works of fantasy.
The Pad O’ Guys — Shane Black, Fred Dekker, and other budding filmmakers co-habitated in a West LA bungalow circa 1990. These guys went on to become legends in Hollywood, not just for their record-setting screenplay sales and the flicks they made together, but also for their phenomenal frat-style fetes.
Finding your tribe of scribblers isn't just a cynical play for networking; it's about building a community that nurtures, challenges, and inspires. The shared journey enhances everyone’s creativity and provides a support system that can make all the difference. So reach out, connect, and embrace the brutal journey of pro-scribbling together!
