Every Wednesday evening in Venice, a literary gathering takes shape as Young Writers Wednesday opens its doors to aspiring authors in their twenties and thirties. Hosted by Matt in his welcoming Gran Paradiso home, this intimate community has evolved from its origins at Foxtail Cafe into a dedicated space where serious writers can nurture their craft with publication in mind. The 6:30-9:00 PM sessions are thoughtfully structured to maximize creative growth, with a cap of eight participants ensuring each voice receives the attention it deserves.
What makes Young Writers Wednesday stand out is its focus on commercial success and publication readiness. Unlike casual writing clubs, this gathering attracts committed wordsmiths seeking to elevate their work to professional standards. The cozy home setting provides the perfect backdrop for honest exchange, with participants encouraged to arrive by 6:15 PM to secure their spot. Regular attendees know to RSVP ahead of time, as the limited capacity fills quickly with dedicated writers eager to share their latest pages.
The session structure balances social connection with serious literary development. Beginning with an optional coffee and connections period, writers can ease into the creative mindset while enjoying their preferred beverages or snacks. The heart of each meeting involves members sharing up to 2,000 words of their current projects—ranging from novels and short stories to screenplays and narrative nonfiction. Writers have the flexibility to read their own work or have another member present it, creating a comfortable environment even for those shy about public reading.
What follows each reading is perhaps the most valuable component: focused feedback from every participant. The group has cultivated a feedback approach that balances honesty with encouragement, identifying both what works and specific areas for improvement. By the end of each Wednesday gathering, every writer has both shared their work and contributed constructive criticism to others, creating a full circle of literary growth. This reciprocal exchange builds stronger writers and fosters a genuine sense of community among participants.
Young Writers Wednesday welcomes a diverse range of writing styles and genres. Whether crafting science fiction, fantasy, literary fiction, thrillers, or narrative nonfiction, writers find their work taken seriously and evaluated on its merits. Participants typically bring physical copies of their work for everyone, though reading from digital devices is also accommodated. The group maintains a professional atmosphere where mature themes can be explored respectfully, with the understanding that authentic stories often venture into challenging territory.
The philosophy underpinning these gatherings reflects a strong commitment to craft. Rather than superficial praise, members seek and provide genuine, constructive criticism delivered with respect—the kind of feedback that transforms promising drafts into publishable work. This balance of candor and support creates an environment where writers feel both challenged and encouraged, where weaknesses can be addressed without discouraging the creative spirit. Against the backdrop of lake views and subtle jazz or classical music, the atmosphere remains both productive and inspiring.
