I’ve been a member of Allpoetry.com since about October 2007, when I first joined I knew no one and quickly made friends/acquaintances. I had very little experience of writing, not really having done any from having left school some 21 years before, and then little in the way of poetry. I gave it a go...had no idea on poetic form/style or syllable count but with the help of encouragement from peers, quickly I developed and indulged my thirst wanting to write as much as possible when health allowed. It s great therapy too for anyone with issues health or depression wise, as it engulfs the mind in concentration and pleasure.
The great thing with the site is that there are various groups to broaden your knowledge without feeling stupid but with help at your own 1 to 1 level and chance to individually message tutors out of public knowledge if you are embarrassed, though many questions you might find yourself asking, have usually been asked many times before and to post publicly helps many others develop where otherwise they might not. I personally owe much to this site, its brought back in me a renewed confidence I’d lost.
Of course, there are daily contests from members to inspire and encourage and lots to read in return...you can even spot emerging authors at times! For the more proficient out there who wish t, Lulu also offer opportunity to self publish, again holding your hand throughout. If you want friends to chat too or wish to join groups of similar interest, opportunity lies there also. In fact there’s so much, I’m still discovering new things myself. Why not swing by take a peek, check out some of my writing if you wish and stop by to say hi, I’m anaisnais and always glad to meet and greet new people, and if theres anything I can help with I will, or at least point you to the greeters or moderators if need arises!
Hope to see you around soon!! ;)