Itch.
The impetus behind yesterday’s post is that I am feeling the itch to show someone my writing. Maybe. To have someone read it thoughtfully and honestly tell me if it sucks or not. Or maybe just to nod and buy me a coffee. But not just anyone. And not just yet. I am raw and fragile about it at this stage.
I know it’s a workable idea. I know they are workable characters. I am just not sure that any of the repeated stabs I’ve been making are doing anything…well, are doing anything. Partially, this is because I am bound too close to know. Partially it is because I have not written anything intended for public consumption in years. I’ve been busy sitting around being mute and mentally ill. Also complicating the matter is the fact that I have not been in a working relationship with other writers for years. And the whole ‘novel form’ thing? Don’t even get me started.
Currently I am reading something for a set of friends, they work as partners. I’m afraid I have no real feedback for them other than “Your characters work together really smoothly!” and “The dialog is very easy.” Certainly something more constructive is there, I just haven’t stumbled over it yet. Maybe in the meantime they wouldn’t mind the little cheerful chirp above? Maybe they find that super annoying?
I don’t know. In the meantime, I still call it a good day if I get a page of decent poetry out of the thing. Even if it doesn’t go with anything else around it.
There are some great online critique groups you can join if you think you’d feel braver by not having to literally face someone about your writing. And typically writers are supportive of other writers; it’s not usually a case of if it sucks or not, it’s a matter of giving feedback that both validates the author and helps them improve their work.
Good luck!
Well, I’m not much a writer so I can’t give you any useful input. But I think any aspiring writer should absolutely learn to face criticisms. The more criticisms one receives the better he or she will be.
When you’re feeling the itch… that’s when it’s time to show some someones. At least that’s when I know it’s time, for me. I’m here, whenever you’re ready, and I know of a few more people who will say the same thing.