Quote:
Originally Posted by gmw
My explanations are empirical because I don't have a formal education in this area (as is probably obvious). I read, and for some years now I have obsessed over writing, mostly my own, but also paying more attention to what I read of others. The occasional thread here on MR is about the only place I get to discuss the thoughts that have arisen as a result of that obsession. So I have found our discussion interesting and enjoyable.
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Regarding the distinction of commericial vs non-commercial, I'm not sure that's quite the right one, though it is obviously part of it. Many non-commercial writers are happy to tell reasonably conventional stories. Writers (that wish to share their work) need to be aware of their audience, so I wonder if the distinction, when it comes to more experimental forms of fiction, is the target audience, maybe: public vs word nerds. (I'm hoping that, since I have self-identified as a maths nerd, the description won't come over as a pejorative - substitute "enthusasts" if necessary.)
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Criticism of your work is one of those things a writer must learn to cope with, but some sources are have more impact that others. I paid for a critique on one of my works and the result wasn't pretty. Essentially I was told to give up on the piece - in almost those words. ......
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The best way to learn to write is to study the masters whose work you enjoy.
I too have found reading this interesting. But it definitiely mirrors many such discussions I've been involved in over the past 30 years or so....
I often am left with - There are many types or writing and readers, don't worry about the others, read, write, do what you love to the best of your ability.
The problem with critics is that they too are limited and often have blinders on. Many are failed or struggling writers themselves. It is rare to find a truly good critic/book doctor/reviewer. Much like the literary community or even writers groups or workshops which can be very insular. Add the distinction of literary/popular genre/non-genre to commercial/non-commercial and it all turns to mud.
I'm sorry you had a bad experience with the paid critique of your work.
