Cory Doctorow emphasizes that the most valuable aspect of a writing workshop is the act of critiquing other writers’ work, which cultivates critical skills that improve one’s own writing more effectively than receiving feedback. He argues that while editorial notes or AI-generated feedback can help fix individual stories, consistent peer-based critique fosters the creative instincts and discipline necessary to develop a sustainable body of work. Doctorow outlines key principles and structures for effective peer workshops and contrasts their benefits with the limitations of relying solely on AI editorial feedback.
https://pluralistic.net/2026/10/23/better-to-give/#than-to-receive