The critic insideext_803919September 24 2011, 20:10:34 UTC
I've studid writing a lot. I've worked with a lot of writers, both newbs and multiply-published ones. One thing they all have in common is their self-judge. Sometimes the self-judge loves the work. Sometimes the self-judge hates the work. It can be the same work, in fact. One minute loved, the next thought terrible. It's very difficult to get a neutral perspective on your own work. And about that putting yourself out there thing, I have often compared showing writing to standing in the middle of a circle, taking off your clothes and having people judge you inch by inch. (You could peel off an inch or two around the thigh area. Consider getting a boob job. Is ALL that really your butt?) How could you ever face them again? Here's what I can say, Grim. Although you have a few punctuation flaws from time to time, your writing is better than 90% of what's out there. believe me. I have seen what's out there. You can write. SWAK.
I very much enjoyed this post, in part because I saw a lot of myself here. I wanted to be a writer throughout my youth and worked dedicatedly on my version of the craft from the age of ABC's through late adolescence. I took classes, workshops, joined clubs, online communities, submitted to kids' magazines, etc. Unfortunately the enjoyment was pretty well trampled by age 19 or 20. Amazing how influential the voices of a few respected/feared instructors can become. The pen was put down for over a decade, and now it's kinda scary. Little joys crop up from time to time, but I haven't yet recaptured that magical feeling.
I'm glad you share your writing; it helps and it's entertaining. Also, what's the difference between college and university in England? Suppose I could Google it, mmm?
Comments 3
Reply
Reply
I wanted to be a writer throughout my youth and worked dedicatedly on my version of the craft from the age of ABC's through late adolescence.
I took classes, workshops, joined clubs, online communities, submitted to kids' magazines, etc.
Unfortunately the enjoyment was pretty well trampled by age 19 or 20.
Amazing how influential the voices of a few respected/feared instructors can become.
The pen was put down for over a decade, and now it's kinda scary.
Little joys crop up from time to time, but I haven't yet recaptured that magical feeling.
I'm glad you share your writing; it helps and it's entertaining.
Also, what's the difference between college and university in England?
Suppose I could Google it, mmm?
Reply
Leave a comment