Activity

Hi Taylor (@taylorclogston)

Perhaps my experience has shaped a particular perspective that you may disagree with and that is fine.

I have met writers that had great promise in their early works that were later discouraged by writing teachers who were heavy-handed with critiques of their works because of “the rules of writing” were put up too early, instead of gently led into.  In the same way, you don’t like preachy characters, some writing teachers can essentially do the same thing by being overly critical, rather than constructive in their criticism.  That is more where I am coming from.  I do not deny that study and skill is necessary.  It is, but it follows from one who first finds delight, and then wants to expand to become skilled in what delights them.  You and I agree as you’ve stated.

I am the new member here so I am definitely not trying to diminish anyone’s skill level, nor do I propose to know at what level they find themselves.  Some have a natural aptitude, and some like Franklin, can practice over and over and never get beyond a particular threshold.  I do not know the level of screening that goes on.  I was given a self-assessment but did not submit a writing sample.  I may, in fact, be a lousy writer and many of you may not know it. 😛   I’m sure my secret will come out soon. [Ha, ha]

I don’t really know anyone’s background here unless I ask and they are willing to share a little.

I have enjoyed your perspective even though I may take a slightly different slant.  I am sure you are highly skilled in your approach, and perchance have found some success in it.

I do tend to write differently for different audiences, but I find that if I find myself becoming overly concerned with the “reader” in a first draft, that it will drive me to distraction, and Captain Criticism comes out sits on my shoulder and starts telling my mind everything I am getting wrong,..at least until I finally turn on him and shout “Will you shut up?!” and he looks at me in shock and I grab him and say “It’s the can for you!”, and tuck him back under the metal bucket.  Then I crack my knuckles and say “Alright, where was I?”  I may then choose to take his last annoying criticism and alter the story to its better [Don’t tell him I said that!], but I eventually get to where I am finding an,…how you said it so well:

Eventually, I do let my rascal self-editor out but only if he behaves himself…and does loudly crunch on Cheetos while I’m trying again to write something.

Blessing to you, my friend.