How To Survive A Good Review
Below is a MRR and PLR article in category Writing Speaking -> subcategory Other.
How to Thrive After Receiving a Good Review
When the first reviews for my latest novel, Great Sky Woman (Random House 2006), started rolling in, my emotions went on a roller coaster ride. The first review from Publishers Weekly was largely positive, though it mentioned the pacing was slow in parts. My heart dropped. Slow? How could this be?
Two weeks later, a second review arrived from Booklist, using words like "magnificent," "engaging," and "an adventure on a grand scale."
I sighed in relief. I desperately needed that affirmation. Why? Because I'm an insecure artist. I spend around two years researching and another year writing my novels. I pour my heart and soul into each literary creation. To access my talent, I strip away all protective barriers, giving my absolute best. Anything less would feel like hack work, which I cannot accept.
Some suggest ignoring reviews, labeling them as envy from those who couldn’t create such work themselves. I disagree. To me, reviews are informed opinions from professional readers. They’re not necessarily more knowledgeable than the average reader, but their insights are worth considering.
Honestly, there have been times when I’ve cried over a negative review from a respected critic. Other times, I’ve been so elated that I could do cartwheels across the room. Such dramatic emotional swings aren’t great for your health?"or your pets?"but for an artist invested in reaching out to the world and connecting with present and future readers, there’s little choice.
Feedback is essential. We need to know if our work communicates as intended. Constructive criticism helps us understand public perception and whether the work conveys the desired message or emotion.
Surprisingly, a glowing review can sometimes be more damaging than a critical one. Many artists yearn for a profound connection with the world, often because they felt voiceless or unseen in their early years. This desire to express oneself creatively often stems from a deep-seated need for love, respect, and acknowledgement.
While our work may highlight causes, effects, or ideas beyond ourselves, at its core is the belief that our perceptions matter, that our contributions are significant, much like any other voice in the world.
When reviews come in, we can either approach them with emotional detachment or embrace them fully, weathering both criticism and praise. Which matters more? I’m not sure. Yet, I notice that I don’t internalize positive reviews as deeply as negative ones. Perhaps it’s because a part of me longs too much to believe in the validity of my work.
When accolades arrive, it’s tempting to bask in the praise. But relying on external approval can be risky. Seeking validation can render it elusive, leaving you like a comedian desperate for laughs from an audience that’s moved on.
I cherish the writing process. I love my books and audience. Yet, sometimes I love those reviews too much. In those moments, a little voice reminds me: "The writing isn’t for them. It was there before they existed. If they turn away, you’ll still write. Don’t be swayed by positive reviews or disheartened by negative ones. Listen to the voice of discipline, pain, and creative joy. That’s the voice you can trust."
Ultimately, trust that inner voice. It was there from the beginning and will remain until the end.
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