I'm new here, and would love to get some feedback on the first 13 lines of my WIP, however I'm unsure of the etiquette. Would it be considered more polite to attempt to critique other's work first (which I'm somewhat nervous about)or would it be acceptable to post my 13 lines first? I appreciate the help in answering this, as I'd hate to offend anyone. Thank you.
Posted by mikemunsil (Member # 2109) on :
I think it would be wise to critique other people's work first, as you learn so much that way, and it wil allow you to place your own work out there with more confidence.
However, I would not in any way want to keep you from forging ahead with your work just because that is my opinion. So, in the spirit if putting my time where my mouth is, why don't you send me the piece to critique and I will send you one of mine in return? I can always use a fresh set of eyes on my work, and I do my best to provide value in my critiques, without being harsh.
Will that help?
Mike
Posted by djvdakota (Member # 2002) on :
I have to tell you, that I very much appreciate you asking.
It can be annoying having someone launch into the site with an immediate 13 line post. Mainly because many such folks just don't stick around.
My suggestion is to invest yourself by involving yourself in the discussions. Get to know people, let me get to know you, then I'll be more apt to trust you and respond to you.
Oh, yeah. And be sure you're putting in as much as you're taking out. Sort of a 'you scratch my back and I'll scratch yours' thing.
Oh, and welcome to Hatrack!
Posted by wetwilly (Member # 1818) on :
I say just post it whenever you want. We're open to help all writers with their work, and even more open to learn from all writers and their work. Post at will.
Posted by djvdakota (Member # 2002) on :
I guess I'm selfish. I want to be assured of some kind of return when I invest my time in someone here. I suppose because my time is very limited, and every minute is precious.
Posted by mikemunsil (Member # 2109) on :
Well, I appreciate your time djvdakota. I do. You've certainly helped me out.
Posted by Beth (Member # 2192) on :
IMO, it's more polite to become a member of the community by critiquing other people's stuff, and participating in conversations, before posting your own. But just throwing your stuff up for comment seems to work, too.
I was a little nervous about commenting on other people's work at first, too. I was afraid that if I didn't love their story, they'd be hurt. But I think as long as you approach it constructively, you'll be fine.
I've learned a lot from criting stories here - having to figure out why something worked, or didn't work, for me is a really good exercise.
Plus, it's fun.
Posted by djvdakota (Member # 2002) on :
quote:Well, I appreciate your time djvdakota. I do. You've certainly helped me out.
Thanks, Mike. It's a lot easier to find the time when what you read is a pleasure to the senses--a.k.a. your stories.
Posted by Snowman (Member # 2204) on :
I've learnt a lot from just reading other people's critiques and reading the discussions on here. It's helped me with my own writing. I guess I should probably post more to give something back.
Posted by NewsBys (Member # 1950) on :
I understand what you're feeling Gingivere, I felt the same way when I started. I lurked for about 3-4 months before I decided to start posting. I didn't feel comfortable giving opinions on others work without also putting my own work out for opinions. I did both at the same time. Now I'm addicted. I actually review more than I submit, just because I'm so busy with school, church and karate, but I make sure to always stay active in the threads. I always try to participate in the challenges, they are fun and very helpful.
Posted by Gingivere (Member # 1936) on :
There seems to be a pretty strong consensus. I'll do my best to critique first then, though I've little to none experience at it. Please bear with me until I get the hang of it. Thank you much, and Mike, I just might take you up on that offer.
