On Monday I’m going to my very first open mic (where I’m participating, anyway). I’ve been trying to get more plugged into the local writing scene, and a writing friend I’ve made invited me. People get up and read for five to seven minutes at a local bookstore, and then people clap, and give feedback, or boo—I’m not entirely sure, since I’ve never done it. But I’m excited!
As of writing this, I’m also not 100% sure yet what I’m going to read. I have some pieces of flash fiction which are probably about five minutes long, or I could read a section of a longer story that I’m working on. I’m thinking that will be a “game day” decision, and I’ll have to write about what I chose when I make a blog update in the next few days.
But besides being excited, I’m also bit nervous. So, anyone have any advice? Do’s and don’ts? Or ever done a fiction open mic before? In any case, if you want to come the event is in Greensboro, NC, at Scuppernong Books from 6:30 pm to 8:00 pm or so, sponsored by the North Carolina’s Writers Network. If you come, you aren’t obligated to clap. But if you do “boo” me, I will only tolerate it if you go also throw rotting fruit and vegetables; go big or go home! Ha ha, and happy December everyone!
–Jeff and Leah
BATCH & NARRATIVE 
Speak confidently and no one will doubt you, not even yourself.
LikeLiked by 1 person
Thank you very much — good advice!
LikeLike
Sometimes it helps if you know no one because you have nothing to lose. Or you could do the classic picture everyone in their underwear and then barrel roll off the stage.
LikeLiked by 1 person
I like the first and third choices, he he. Thank you though — very helpful and I really appreciate the perspective.
LikeLike
Pingback: A Brief Open Mic Night Update – BATCH & NARRATIVE
Open mics are amazing! It’s so fun to share your work — and I find that it changes your perspective on what you’re sharing a bit! How’d it go?
LikeLiked by 1 person
Thanks, and it went really well. I wrote a follow-up post on it, but basically, everyone was really welcoming and I felt like I got a lot of laughs. All-around positive, and I’ll be doing it next in January! Thank you so much!
LikeLike