How to Write and Read Critiques: Part 1

In the previous article, we looked at the steps that one should take to become a published writer. One of the suggestions mentioned in the article was to join a writing workshop. To read more about some of my own workshop experiences please visit "Working Together: The Many Benefits of Writing Workshops ." If you don't already belong to some form workshop, it is highly recommended that you join one. It's a great way to connect with other writers and improve your writing. For those of you are in a workshop or are considering joining one, this article will provide some helpful advice.

WRITING CRITIQUES

The most important rule to remember when writing critiques is that you MUST be diplomatic. What does this mean? That means you should offer constructive criticism and not an out and out bashing of the work. How is this done?

The Good

I like to begin my critiques with what I liked about the work. This way I start things off on a positive note. Yes, you should highlight the parts of the story. Why? So, the author knows what he or she is doing right. This is just as important as knowing what they are doing wrong. It gives the writer a frame of reference with which to compare the bad parts of the story. It's also a great way for the writer to weight the opinions of other critiquers. After all, you might tell the writer you loved the title, but another critiquer might complain that they didn't like it. Literature is as subjective as any art form. No one will like everything. By offering your observations on what you felt worked, the author can than judge what they will and will not change.

The Bad

The most constructive criticism is when you point out what you felt needed work. There is a right way and a wrong way to criticize. When offering your opinion it's important to explain yourself. Explain why you didn't like the ending. Explain why you thought the title didn't work. If possible use quotes or examples from the work. Try to use phrases like "I felt" or it is "my opinion." Stating things emphatically tends to annoy many writers. Remember, it's not easy to have one's work torn to shreds. So, be as gentle as possible. Be friendly, and the writer will appreciate your advice.

The Ugly

What happens when you read a story that is really, really bad? There's no easy way to tell an author that their story had no merit whatsoever and that it needed to be overhauled completely or simply trashed. Some critiquers when faced with this dilemma offer some cowardly compliments because they do not even know where to begin. However, the writer is never going to improve unless they know what they are doing wrong. In such cases it's often best to offer general advice on basic story elements such as plot, characterization, and dialog. Give the writer some gentle and general advice on how they can improve the story. Chances are, their next effort will not be stellar, but it will show marked improvement. With effort, their work should keep improving.

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