Taking Fiction I and II from Gotham helped me realize what I want out of a writing group and what I don't.
Your mileage will vary depending on instructor and enrolled classmates. You may actually have a good experience. For example, my first instructor was very cordial, funny, and open, and the classmates were the same -- a good fit. Comments were fair and encouraging, but the class content was fairly introductory.
In the second class, Fiction II -- the instructor liked to hear himself talk. His critiques lacked generosity of spirit. Hung up on certain faults of a piece, he forgot to encourage. I don't think he cared about making the writer better, as his comments seemed more limiting rather than inspiring. Of course, some points he made were good. Another problem is that the instructor did not know how to set limits. Student comments took way too long, and he did not set deadlines for submissions. For instance, the night before class via email, I would sometimes get another 20 pages to read on top of 60-80 pages from 2-3 other students.
Some might say we learn from every example of writing what to do and what not to do. But I don't know about you, I am a busy person who works 60+ hours weekly, goes to school, etc. I don't like to take so much time critiquing other people's pieces that I don’t have time to write my own.
Guys, if you want someone who will be invested in your work, join a real writer's group -- one that doesn't have any fees -- or make one yourself. Audition people, set the rules, etc. -- make it your own. Don't pay Gotham for it.
Writing is meant to be read, and best with eyes that understand where you are coming from, with constructive criticism aimed at making your writing better from the standpoint of a person you have built a relationship with. You care that they grow; they care that you grow. Gotham wants cash. From my experience, many people who either attend the workshops don't know how to comment on someone's work -- giving too few, too harsh, or impractical comments. You may have so many comments you don't know what to do with them. Many people I have talked to seem blocked after Gotham workshops.
My question to you is this: Do you want to feel encouraged to improve your work or do you want to feel inhibited and doubtful about your abilities?
Have faith in yourself and find others who are willing to give the same. Gotham is just not that serious about you.
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