"Criticism may not be agreeable, but it is necessary. It fulfills the same function as pain in the human body. It calls attention to an unhealthy state of things." --Winston Churchill
You all should be very grateful that I made the loving decision and chose not to post a photo from my skin cancer surgery last January, even though it fit better with the quote. You're welcome.
Do you agree with Winston on this? This week I got feedback from some of my hard-working betas who care enough about my writing career to have called attention to the "unhealthy state of things" in my story. Without this sort of valuable input from others, I don't believe I would have been able to brainstorm the solutions that have made the story stronger, healthier.
Giving and receiving critique is a delicate thing. On the giving end, I've learned the importance of the critique sandwich--commend strengths, expose weaknesses, commend strengths. On the receiving end, I know to wait until my defensive spirit has died down and I can approach suggestions with an open mind.
What about you? What are some of your favorite tips for giving and receiving critique?
It's always important to encourage, not discourage. Some people are unable to do this.
ReplyDeleteHi! Your regular comments on Jennifer Hubbard's blog has led me to yours.
ReplyDeleteI agree wholeheartedly with you on the "sandwich" approach. As well as allowing our defenses to come down. Taking that moment will allow the writer to be more objective.
Also, on a personal note, I find that I receive critique best when my first draft of the work is complete. In my case, I jumped into the process too early with an unfinished first draft that the critique, no matter how well-intentioned, wrought havoc on my confidence with the story.
I agree with Mieke--I wait until a complete draft is done, that way I can start working on something else when it is out for critique. This gives me a little time away and a distanced perspective.
ReplyDeleteI also remind myself that they aren't critiquing me--just one text that I wrote.
But I love, love, love critiques. The only hard part sometimes is figuring how to fix the text.
Miranda--that truth applies to all aspects of life, doesn't it?
ReplyDeleteMieke--Thanks for jumping over. I totally agree. Experience has also taught me not to share until the first draft is complete.
Heidi--Yes. Time and distance are a big help.
ReplyDeleteOhhhh, critique is a good thing. When it doesn't come across as scathing. So yes, I agree with Winston Churchill. Wording critiques requires thoughtful consideration. I love the idea of your sandwich.
ReplyDeleteBarbara--wording is important and since we're all about words, we should be good at that, right?
ReplyDeleteAs far as giving goes, you're spot on with the sandwich method. I also like to stress that it's just my opinion, and they're free to use or discard at will.
ReplyDeleteAs for receiving, I'll let you know :-)
It *is* a delicate thing - but when done well, a good crit can open avenues in your story you might not otherwise have seen...
ReplyDeleteSarah--I'm sure you'll receive graciously. ^_^
ReplyDeleteDeniz--Exactly.
The best critiques I've had are usually the worst ones. The honesty usually allows me to see my writing from a whole different angle. They make me cringe the most but they're invaluable to helping me improve.
ReplyDelete(I'm suspicious of overly complimentary critiques.)
Melodie--excellent point. If I have spinach between my teeth or a booger hanging out my nose, I want someone who isn't afraid to tell me!
ReplyDeleteI like to get a range of input. I've also learned which critiquers are easier on me and which are harder on me, and their preferences and quirks.
ReplyDeleteThe critiquer who is easiest on me helps me figure out when something's really a problem--because if that person notices it, I'd better believe it's trouble. From others I may get conflicting comments, and it helps to have multiple points of view. And I've had at least a couple of people who are not afraid to tell me when I can do much better.
I love that Churchill quote. It's absolutely necessary. But a critique doesn't have to hurt or derail someone's dreams. Love your sandwich critique analogy.
ReplyDeleteI love people who understand when someone else is giving a critique, it is because they genuinely want to help the project become better. Period. So, along those lines, I get royally annoyed at people who take the time to defend why they put something somewhere in a story. If it isn't working, listening to you explain why you liked it isn't going to help. Take notes, make opinions later.
ReplyDeleteGreat post - thanks! Glad I found your blog.
Tasha--Welcome! Happy you found the blog, too.
ReplyDeleteI'm not a big fan of "face-to-face" critique groups. I don't want people to see my initial reactions. ^_^