Our
Philosophy
We believe in equality and fairness, and seek to find ways to be inclusive and welcoming to all. Our philosophy has always been that Virtual Writers be available to both the seasoned and emerging writer: there’s a place for all at our table. We are particularly welcoming to minority groups and those underrepresented in publishing. Our community is the vibrant and supportive place it is because of its beautifully diverse membership.
founding story
Back in 2007, Andie (chronically sick and newly disabled) was struggling with isolation and loneliness. She longed for community but it was difficult for her to get about. How could she be part of something yet not feel pressured to present physically? This was long before Zoom and Covid, and she had few options then, so she decided to build the community herself. Within months, she had the start of an active writing community in Second Life®, a beautiful sim for meetings, and a whole host of new friends. From there, Virtual Writers grew and spilled out into other virtual environments: forums, chat rooms, social media sites… and on to VR, OpenSim, and the RP gaming world.
Wherever she went, there were other writers craving community, isolated by circumstance. Some were new mothers struggling to sleep, others were newly-retired with time on their hands, some dealing with mental health issues, others chronically sick or disabled. Many felt disenfranchised and in need of a virtual home.
Andie saw that many were left disabled or isolated by an unaccommodating society. Andie’s vision grew from this realisation, and so Virtual Writers was born: an inclusive, interactive virtual space for all. A supportive place, where everyone was welcomed and no one was left behind.
what you can expect
We offer a space for all writers at all stages, within a digital medium. This unique place allows the user to more fully develop their characters and settings, meet other likeminded individuals, share experiences, and learn and grow as writers. With our daily writing events, taught workshops and our upcoming premium courses, we have something for everyone. With plans to also offer paid mentoring services, and expert editorial guidance for those needing to take their writing to the next stage, you can expect dedication, care, and professionalism, as always, at every turn.
‘I’ve attended Milk Wood poetry readings, daily dashes, and the intense annual NaNoWriMo event in November. Milk Wood provides a forum for interacting with other writers, both newbies and published professionals, and a place to promote books and literary events. It’s possible to join a writing circle and set your avatar to work at a computer while you type away on a real world project. There’s always someone to offer encouragement, sympathy or advice when you hit a snag or need a break.’
Why us?
We offer a free, interactive space in which to experiment with your creations, and a well-established egalitarian community. We’re all writers and are walking the same path. We know the challenges writers face because we’ve each had similar roadblocks. Many of us have had expert help along the way and want to pay it forward. We learn from each other and share our expertise gladly. Whether you’re an experienced writer or just starting out, there’s a place for you at Virtual Writers. We see your potential and want to help you get there. We hope that when your time comes, you too will take a mentoring role and continue the tradition.
Make writing a daily habit.
our writing ethos
We’re very goal orientated at Virtual Writers, and schedule regular challenges to keep us on track. Many of us are working on longer works in progress, and the camaraderie and work office vibe seems to give us more impetus to finish. We keep ourselves accountable by sharing our goals with our writing partners and buddy-network. As many members have stayed with us for years, it really has the feel of a close-knit family, albeit a large and growing one.
Ready to join our active community?
Want to take your writing to the next level? Then sign up for your free Second Life® avatar and come join the party. You’ll become a member of a friendly, diverse community and the support is second to none.
Sign up for free with Second Life® and complete the onscreen form, then download the Second Life® viewer. We’ll guide you through the steps and our hosts inworld will be happy to assist, should you require help.
Register with Second Life®
Get your free avatar and Second Life® name.
Click Here for Detailed Steps
For more information on joining our meets.
Download the free viewer
This is required so you can view and move your avatar.
Teleport to our Sim in Second Life®
… and say hi.
