I got some really interesting criticism last season, especially during the gatekeeper rounds) and I think it really helped my writing. The hardest thing in the world is being able to take a step back and look ruthlessly on what you have written, so sometimes you might need other people for that.
I did give a few other contestants lengthy criticism in PMs after they had talked about not knowing what was wrong with their entries, and I think that over all it was received well.
That being said, I would never agree to criticize somebody I didn't like at all. I am well aware of that I'm not the world's greatest editor, I can only speak of my own gut. And that would rather have something fail spectacularly than be boring.
I think the important thing to think about is whether the person who critiques you might actually have a point. Because even if they are saying something you don't agree with, and didn't think you meant, they must have got the impression somehow. Maybe you are not coming across as clearly as you thought.
As for the niche audience... *facepalm* Yes, I might like to write for nice audiences, but I sure as hell wants to rope in the normal people too! Why put off people needlessly? Not everybody is going to like everything, but at least I would rather go for something that 30% would like than 3%...
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Date: 2010-11-17 09:49 pm (UTC)I got some really interesting criticism last season, especially during the gatekeeper rounds) and I think it really helped my writing. The hardest thing in the world is being able to take a step back and look ruthlessly on what you have written, so sometimes you might need other people for that.
I did give a few other contestants lengthy criticism in PMs after they had talked about not knowing what was wrong with their entries, and I think that over all it was received well.
That being said, I would never agree to criticize somebody I didn't like at all. I am well aware of that I'm not the world's greatest editor, I can only speak of my own gut. And that would rather have something fail spectacularly than be boring.
I think the important thing to think about is whether the person who critiques you might actually have a point. Because even if they are saying something you don't agree with, and didn't think you meant, they must have got the impression somehow. Maybe you are not coming across as clearly as you thought.
As for the niche audience... *facepalm* Yes, I might like to write for nice audiences, but I sure as hell wants to rope in the normal people too! Why put off people needlessly? Not everybody is going to like everything, but at least I would rather go for something that 30% would like than 3%...