The Pyrenees---Southern France

The Pyrenees---Southern France

Thursday, November 19, 2015

It's in My Head

         On Tuesday I met with my rather new writing critique group. You know, the one that meets in a private writing room at a bar/grill... The group that eats fried chicken and taco salads (me) and drinks buckets of beer (not me). The group that fascinates the bar regulars and makes them curious-er and 
curious-er (me wonders why).

         One of the writers shared a western short story they had written. As we talked about the strengths and weaknesses of the piece, they spoke of some tidbits about the major characters... tidbits that were not evident in the story.


It's in your head... but it's not down on paper. 

        It made me think of the thick skin we have to have as writers. When our writing is sucky, we have to be able to hear and listen to constructive criticism. When our writing friends' writing is sucky, we have to be brave enough to tell them.

       What was a time when you had to say something difficult (or had to listen to something difficult) as a writer?

        And if you're in the St. Louis/St. Charles area this evening, stop by the Spencer Road Library (427 Spencer Road). From 6-8, there will be 105 authors and illustrators in attendance. Blog friends of mine, like Donna Volkenannt, Pat Wahler, Robin Tidwell, Marcia Gaye and others will be there. It's a fun evening every year.  

        And Sioux-on-a-Stick will be there (if I can dig her up). She's not as wild as COAS, but she does pull the occasional prank.

19 comments:

  1. Accepting criticism is never easy, but when it pertains to our writing---ouch! Still, it's an important part of the process and one of the things that reminds us there is always room for improvement. Anytime I have to point out a problem in someone's work it's uncomfortable, but there are always positives to balance it out and I try to point out all that good stuff along with the oopsies. As to my own writerly angst, I always appreciate an honest opinion even when it hurts. It does still hurt though. lol

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    1. It DOES still hurt, but the skin gets tougher with the scar tissue forming a thick barrier.

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  2. I find it harder to offer critique than receive. I want to learn from others, so I am usually receptive to others' ideas and comments.

    I've had to sit through some painful open mic readings, but I do try to offer positive comments.

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    1. Linda--But you are so wonderful at critique. You have such a deft hand, and a great ear/eye.

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  3. Even though it's sometimes tough to hear, constructive criticism makes the piece better. I always hang onto that rag of comfort like my own personal Bengay :-)

    Looking forward to seeing you tonight, Sioux!

    Pat
    Critter Alley

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    1. Pat--I think you could write a piece about your own personal Bengay. It's a great way of thinking about critique.

      By the way--you looked maaaahvelous last night.

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  4. You so lucky to have many helpers and commentors as you work!!!!

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    1. Claudia--I AM lucky to have lots of writer friends.

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  5. Wish I could join you! Sounds like a blast. Be sure to tell Donna V I said hello.

    Over the years my skin has gotten a little thicker and I've learned to always say 'thank you' to critique partners who have taken the time to thoughtfully read pages and offer feedback even when it's is tough to hear.

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    1. Clara--I said "hi" to Donna for you. (Her table was quite busy last night.)

      Yes, "thank you" to critique partners is important, because most of them feel hesitant about saying anything that's less than positive.

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  6. I have a horrible time delivering any sort of constructive criticism. I'm always afraid of overstepping, offending, or hurting someone's feelings.

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    1. MZ--I'm so sorry to hear that. You are such a gifted poet, I'm sure your suggestions would be extremely valuable.

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  7. Meh...critique. It's just part of the process. Hope y'all had a ton of fun--I saw your faces out there on the interwebs. (Well, I don't think I saw YOUR face, or Sioux on a Stick...but I'm sure you were up to shenanigans!)

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    1. SOAS was in hiding. I was there, but since I'm in the witness protection program, my photo cannot be circulated.

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  8. I've had my share of ouchies from critiques. Some scars heal quickly but some are still tender, even years later. But I always learn something from honest feedback. Like when one of my main characters, who is a wonderful guy, was perceived as being a jerk because I hadn't presented him well. Likewise another was thought to be a meanie even though I meant him to be just disengaged. So those points were very valuable to improve on what I had omitted.
    Another time I wrote a line to the effect that some people "won't get" my point, and a critique said, "I don't get it." Well. He obviously wasn't my audience.

    It was fun seeing you and your coppery hair last night at the library shindig. It went well, don't you think? I sold two (2!) books, same as last year. There was a good crowd of readers and it's always great to see that.

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    1. Well, that means you sold 2 more books than I did...

      Yes, I think it went well. It's always fun to get together with different writers and "talk shop." It was also great to see you, Donna, Sheree, Cathi, Brad and Doyle.

      And as far as some who "don't get" your point... There's always a few dense people out there. Just leave them in that galaxy (far far away) that they're in.

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  9. I have never had to say anything difficult as a writer, because I don't say anything as a writer. I keep that little hobby a secret from most people, so nobody is beating down my door asking for constructive criticism.

    I don't have difficulty hearing constructive criticism from a reliable criticizer. I know it's right on track. But I don't like changing one single letter of my masterpieces. Like a child swallowing cough medicine...I'll do it, because it will make me better. But I won't necessarily like it.

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    1. Perhaps when you're retired, you'll venture out... start your own writing group?

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  10. I'm always grateful for critiques, but I've been lucky to have received criticisms that come sweetened with a big dose of tact. Maybe I'd feel different about some of the brutal critique-ers I've heard about? Was sorry I had to miss the Spencer Road night!

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