Putting The Critics In Their Place
Below is a MRR and PLR article in category Writing Speaking -> subcategory Writing.
Putting Critics in Their Place
Summary:
As a writer, it's not enough to just write; you must publish your work. With publication comes diverse reactions: some people will like it, some will dislike it, and others won't care at all. Letting these responses control your emotions can lead to an exhausting roller coaster. Instead, you can manage your reactions by considering a few key aspects.
Article:
It's often said that if you're a writer, publication is essential. But when you share your work with the world, you need to be prepared for varied reactions: some people will love it, others will dislike it, and many simply won't care. If you allow these reactions to dictate your emotions, you'll find yourself on a never-ending roller coaster. To avoid this, consider the following:
Who is Offering the Feedback?
You've likely heard the phrase "consider the source." This is crucial when evaluating feedback on your work. If the comments come from teachers, editors, or book critics, ensure they are objective and knowledgeable. Their insights, whether positive or negative, can be valuable learning experiences. Remember, they're generally not out to harm you, so don't attack the messenger.
Once your work reaches the public, you'll hear from those who both adore and despise it. Pay close attention because feedback often goes beyond a simple love-hate dichotomy. For instance, my debut novel was marketed as an urban romance, but it was actually a complex family drama. Readers expecting a breezy romance were disappointed, especially when my novel featured in a book club specializing in urban romances. Naturally, many of their customers disliked it.
What is the Criticism Saying?
If I had taken their criticism at face value, I might have felt defeated. However, reader comments like "too slow, boring, not enough romance" indicated they expected something different?"understandably so! If you anticipate a light romance but get a dense drama, disappointment is expected. These readers weren't my target audience, so their feedback didn't trouble me.
Feedback from my intended audience told a different story. They engaged with the book and invested in the characters. Even their frustrations with the protagonist were positive indicators; it showed they cared. If they had found the book slow and dull, I would've known I had a genuine issue.
Does it Align with Your Understanding of Your Work?
As a writer, knowing your own work is crucial for discerning relevant criticism. If you struggle with dialogue, don't be shocked if someone points out weak or unbelievable exchanges. Honestly assess what critics and readers are telling you. This reflection helps guide your next steps.
Deciding Your Next Move
Ultimately, whether to act on feedback is your decision. Sometimes feedback sparks new ideas, prompting revisions. Other times, it might influence your future projects. Or, you may choose not to change anything. In my novel, there's a scene that's rather melodramatic. I wrote it intentionally to illustrate how love can make people act irrationally. I wasn’t willing to alter it because I knew what I wanted to achieve.
Being clear about your intentions allows you to stand firm. When your goals are transparent, you're better equipped to navigate criticism and improve your work.
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© 2006 Sophfronia Scott
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