Critiques

Sometimes I think writing is the hardest thing in the whole world.

I draft a scene. I create these brilliant word images, these amazing plot twists and this bit of totally awesome and compelling conflict.I step away from the keyboardhappy as a clam.

I send it off to one ofmy critique groups.

Then, the critiques start coming back.

Smooth writing, says one.

Okay, that's good.Validated, I read on.

I liked your hero, but the situation doesn't seem plausible. I don'tunderstand why he would do that.

Uh, oh. I frown and stare at the computer monitor wondering if they got my scene mixed up with someone elses?

I trudge forward, still chewing on that last comment.

Great setting. I could see it. I was there.

Okay, this personreally getsme. I'm smiling now and reading on...

Yes, this is really what it's like--at least for me. The above bits I manufactured, but I had a similar experince this week with one of my scenes. Thankfully the rule thatI can't speak duringmy critiques saves me from blurting out all my defenses for why my writing is perfect.

Because that would be so embarrassing when I'd had enough time to consider all their comments and realize that there is truly a reason I'm so privileged to belong to such a fantastic critique group. With a bunch of really talented writers who always see things it would never occur to me to even consider. Let's face it, no one can write in a vacuum.

You've got to take that step and share your writing. Most importantly, you have to be able to, at the least, consider every bit of feedback and play with the possibilities. But, you have to remain true to your story, your voice, your characters...

Yes, really. Like I said, this is a tough gig. God, I love it :-)

Til next time,
Ardath