Post by Darth Fingon on Mar 20, 2008 23:22:48 GMT -6
The objective of a critique or critical comment is not to be a jerk to the writer (that would be a flame, which we don't allow). A critique points out legitimate flaws in the story, from spelling mistakes to flaws in canon to characterisation that doesn't seem right. Critiquers should assume that authors who post here want honest opinions.
Sometimes the criticism received sounds harsh or even mean, but authors should keep a few things in mind.
*The language and tone used when writing a critique is generally more formal and distant than a person's regular voice. Because of this, critiques can sometimes come off sounding unfriendly. Remember that the critiquer isn't trying to be a jackass, but is trying to offer advice from a neutral point of view.
*You as an author are under no obligation to agree with every critique. You should consider them, but there's always the option of saying thanks-but-no-thanks when somebody offers comments you don't like. A good critiquer will not be offended that you didn't take the suggestions.
If you're new to writing or writing groups and are nervous about what type of critique you might receive here, there's always the option to put a 'mild constructive criticism only please' request at the top of your story. There's no 'praise only' option here, because that would defeat the purpose of the board, but you are allowed to ask others to go easy until you feel ready for more.
Likewise, if you want the most severe beating this board can give you, go ahead and say so.
Sometimes the criticism received sounds harsh or even mean, but authors should keep a few things in mind.
*The language and tone used when writing a critique is generally more formal and distant than a person's regular voice. Because of this, critiques can sometimes come off sounding unfriendly. Remember that the critiquer isn't trying to be a jackass, but is trying to offer advice from a neutral point of view.
*You as an author are under no obligation to agree with every critique. You should consider them, but there's always the option of saying thanks-but-no-thanks when somebody offers comments you don't like. A good critiquer will not be offended that you didn't take the suggestions.
If you're new to writing or writing groups and are nervous about what type of critique you might receive here, there's always the option to put a 'mild constructive criticism only please' request at the top of your story. There's no 'praise only' option here, because that would defeat the purpose of the board, but you are allowed to ask others to go easy until you feel ready for more.
Likewise, if you want the most severe beating this board can give you, go ahead and say so.