"BE CAREFUL WHAT YOU SAY TO ME"

                  CRITICISM VS PRAISE

 

 

You’re right if it sounds like we’ve discussed this topic before. It’s only a reminder to understand the difference between criticism and praise.

 

Writers are sensitive about their work. Reviews are intentional and can maximize sales or decrease sales based on the wording and score given by the reviewer. More than that, they allow the writer to engage with readers and improve their writing skills, which helps build a brand.

 

Reviewers are welcome to share their perspectives, and authors depend on them. It’s an unspoken partnership that exists between the author and the reader.

 

Yet, everyone on the planet has an opinion these days. Some are fair, whereas others hold hidden agendas.

 

Depending on the reviewer, you’ve seen either uplifting or scathing. Most of the time skim from something they like or didn’t like about the story in general or the characters.

 

Instead, they focus on that and then give failing grades based on personal ideas of how the story should’ve been written in their opinion.

 

I have no problem with criticism. It’s how we, as artists gauge our work among the masses.

 

Still, some fail at constructive critiques. Opinions hold value. However, how you word them makes a difference.

 

As writers, we expect negative remarks because you can’t please every reader. It comes with the territory.

 

But please don’t expect authors to write like every other author without realizing their uniqueness and personal writing styles.

 

Writers aren’t prototypes, although they can share similarities with other writers.

 

Nevertheless, readers should remember that one size does not fit all when sharing their reviews.

 

How and what readers say has weight and often works like a double-edged sword. If applied correctly, it can identify strengths and weaknesses, which critiques point out in constructive tones.

 

What authors choose to write about is personal and heartfelt. They pour out their heart and souls through the characters they create. They want to know your thoughts, what you loved or hated, and how well they composed the story and character creations.

 

 

Based on that, the writers don’t expect readers to handle their feelings with kidskin gloves. Only be honest when giving their opinions with a level of professionalism.

 

If you hated it, say so. If you loved it, even better. But don’t say, “this story sucks without explaining how you came to that conclusion.

 

Even bad writing is forgivable, which is why constructive criticism is vital.

 

Yes, speak your mind as it is your right but do it in a way that encourages the writers to do better next time without discouragement.

 

No author expects praise when it’s not due, but they expect honesty because it helps the writers grow and build better reader-author relationships.

Please keep the reviews coming, but be careful with how and what you say when the author’s success is based on words.