A Comprehensive Report on the 2017 New York Top Writers Meetup

The 2017 New York Top Writers meetup was a vibrant and enriching event that brought together a diverse and talented group of writers, psychologists, and Quora aficionados. This event, rich with discussions, interactions, and networking, provided valuable insights and connections for all involved. Here is a detailed report of the meetup, focusing on the key aspects and notable attendees.

Introduction to the New York Top Writers Meetup

The 2017 New York Top Writers meetup, hosted in New York City, was a unique confluence of ideas and expertise. The event aimed to foster a collaborative environment for writers, particularly those active on platforms like Quora. Attendees included a mix of seasoned professionals and emerging talents, all sharing a passion for writing and eager to learn from each other.

Key Discussions and Presentations

QA Session with Paula Griffin

The event kicked off with a QA session conducted by Paula Griffin, a prominent writer and speaker in the Quora community. Paula addressed some of the common challenges and dynamics faced by writers on the platform, offering practical advice and insights to help attendees navigate these issues. Her experience and knowledge were invaluable, providing a solid foundation for the day's discussions.

Strategies for Writer Engagement

Another crucial session was led by Alecia Alecia Li Morgan, who provided valuable guidance on identifying the right magazines for story submissions and tailoring content to align with their editorial guidelines. This session was particularly enlightening for those looking to expand their reach and visibility through traditional media channels.

Meeting New Associates and Friends

A significant part of the meetup involved meeting and reconnecting with fellow writers. Each introduction was a chance to learn more about their backgrounds, experiences, and future plans. Here are some highlights:

Divyanth Jayaraj: An individual with an extraordinary and fascinating life story, whose unique perspective added depth to the discussions. James Altucher: Known for his whimsical and unconventional approach, James shared his latest ventures and insights. Archie D’Cruz: A captivating personality whose presence added energy to the event. John Roberson, Jason Wells, Kittie Rayborn: Long-time associates whose continued presence in the Top Writers network was evident through their active participation. Shulamit Widawsky, Megan Church McGill, Zack Brown: Other notable attendees who contributed significantly to the event. Leonid S. Knyshov, Charles Lyell, Dan Bradbury, Barbara Johnson, Julie Anne Exter, Nick Moyne, Sanjay Sabnani, Scott Danzig, Jenny Wang: Additional voices that enriched the discussions. Anita Sanz: An individual who not only lived up to the expectations but also enriched the discussions with her thoughtful and engaging contributions.

The meetup was not just about discussing; it was a place to form new connections and strengthen existing ones. Many attendees emphasized the joy of reuniting with friends and the excitement of meeting new people who shared similar interests.

Post-Meetup Activities

Following the keynotes and discussions, the group ventured out to explore New York City further. One highlights included:

A visit to The Central Park Boathouse for a relaxing afternoon. A trip to a couple of restaurants, where conversations flowed as freely as the food. Excursions to see some of New York City's famous landmarks, such as the top of the new One World Trade Center.

The ambiance of the city was seamlessly integrated into the event, making it a memorable experience beyond just the discussions and networking.

Additional Insights and Reflections

Mila Zaslove, a prolific photojournalist, captured many moments from the meetup. These photographs not only documented the event but also provided a window into a day filled with learning, laughter, and meaningful connections.

The Great Comet and City Exploration

The meetup also allowed attendees to enjoy some leisure time, with many taking in a series of plays and operas. Reviews of some of the performances included:

The Great Comet of 1812: A musical event that provided a unique experience. Present Laughter: A classic play with timeless humor and relevance. Invincible: A thought-provoking and insightful drama. Groundhog’s Day: A relatable and entertaining comedy.

These cultural experiences complemented the academic and professional discussions, offering a well-rounded and enriching experience for all participants.

Additional Observations

Different moments and experiences at the meetup left lasting impressions. For instance:

Michelle Gaugy: A small world moment where Michelle, a counselor-trainer, met an old colleague from Bars-49 Ranch, creating a wonderful connection. The Photographs: Mira Zaslove's detailed photographs vividly captured the moments and interactions, providing a visual legacy of the event. A Thought-Provoking T-Shirt: The mention of the new t-shirt picture and the red word bubble was a humorous note that added a light touch to the serious academic and professional discussions.

The 2017 New York Top Writers meetup stands out as a memorable event that blended professional growth with personal connections. It was a testament to the power of community and the value of collaboration in the world of writing.