Starting a writing group

For a few weeks now I've been toying with the idea of starting a Writer's Group, a cohort of serious writers who are looking for a place to share ideas and the joys and challenges of being a professional writer.

I've tested the waters with a few people I know and have gotten a tepid response. I know this kind of thing isn't for everyone. I know that some people prefer to be very quiet and independent about their work. But for me, the collaboration and brainstorming with other writers can be invaluable to my work, not to mention my mental health. Discouragement is hell.

Early this morning while I was reading Finding Water: The Art of Perseverance I realized that I wasn't just being needy. Author Julia Cameron writes that, "creativity occurs in clusters." Think Bloomsbury or the Lost Generation.

"Friends … help us to sort out when criticism has a point and when it is pointless. They help us to tell the difference between being bludgeoned and feeling bludgeoned."

When I hear stories of successful writers, many credit writing groups with simultaneously getting them on the right track and carrying them through the tough times. Given the writing goals I've set for myself in the coming year or two, I believe that kind of support system could be empowering not only to me but to other writers who are open to such a group.

Anyone interested?