This forum exists, in part, to help writers develop a thick skin. We encourage honest, frank critique. As a writer, take what you need and leave the rest. Do not take critique personally. If there is something you do not agree with, or does not sit well with you, you don’t have to use it. Let it go.
This is not a vanity site, so do not post here expecting only positive feedback or mindless praise. If you want to blawg, and are looking for praise, try
wordpress.
Please critique as much as you post. Remember the more you critique, the better you will become at both reading and writing. Giving and receiving critique goes a long way in helping you grow as a writer.
Some Suggestions for Giving Critique:
-Be specific. Don’t’ just say you like it or you do not like it, but why. If you don’t think it works, let the writer know what is specifically not working for you.
-Don’t make it personal. If someone writes a story about murdering their mother, it does not mean they are a mother murderer. Make your comments about the writing and not the writer.
-Don’t leave a bunch of half-assed critique so you will receive more critique. If you’re going to do it, spend some time, do it right. People know the difference.
-There is a difference between honesty and assholery. Learn it.
-If you feel intimidated, or would like a starting point, try reading this article to get you started:
http://www.ehow.com/how_2101667_critique-creative-writing.htmlSome Suggestions for Receiving Critique:-Respect that fact that if someone takes the time to leave you critique, that in itself is a complement to your work. Do not take offense to honesty. If there is something you disagree with, feel free to question or discuss it, but don’t make it personal, and don’t take it personally.
-Learn to let it go and move on.
-When you post, let people know what you are looking for. Saying that you are particularly interested in whether or not the alliteration is working, or whether the metaphor makes sense or even admitting the piece is a mess and it could use all the help it gets is better than just leaving something up and expecting someone to know what need. This allows your reviewer to give a more developed critique and in the end, everyone gets more out of it.
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