Whether someone likes a painting, a poem, or even a sculpture is based on their personal opinion—and the most important thing I’ve learned is that you don't have to like everything—and you’re never going to make everyone happy with your art. Take the short story I'm working on for NaNoWrimo, for example.
I read it to my sister last night, and she gripped the side of the couch at the scary parts, gasped when I thought she would, and even cried—and I'm not even done yet! But then I read the same story to my friend Sophie, and she wasn't quite as excited about it. She said it wasn't scary enough, and when I teared up reading it out loud, she said she didn't feel like crying at all. I was crushed.
I mean, I've been working on this story for 16 days and of course I want everyone to love it. But I realize (after a good sleep) that not everyone will. In fact, I remember what one author once told me when she came to our school for a talk—when you start sharing your work with the public, you need to develop a thick skin.
Don’t get me wrong. It’s important to have people read and edit your writing if you want to get better, but as long as the criticism is constructive (and not mean), then take advantage of the feedback to learn how you can improve.
Still, I know it’s hard seeing all of those “red edits” all over your writing. When I’m asked to give feedback on some writing, I use a green pen—green for growth. It looks a lot less harsh! Maybe give that a try?
Gotta jet! May the words be in your favour this Sunday.
~ Chase Superman Duffy
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