No pressure, though. =)

#3 reminded me of when I was reading “The Elements of Style” a few weeks back. I thought it was so weird that “Charles’s” was as valid as “Charles’.” I was always taught the latter way to do it. *shrugs*

But that leads me to another question: should the ‘ in Charles’ be after or before the period in the sentence in my previous paragragh?

I guess growing up creating visual art has thickened my skin when it comes to criticism. It’s unfortunate that many people automatically take it offensively, as though something not filled with praise is automatically mean-spirited or a personal attack. Constructive criticism is quite the opposite– there’s more care and nurturing found in the critique than in any sycophantic dribble. An in-depth critique means that someone took the time to view, analyze, and respond in order see the creation flourish.

A part of creating something worthwhile is accepting the opinions of others. That’s the beauty of critique…you can learn more about your work through other people’s experiences with it–which in turn makes it stronger. As far as I’m concerned, if you are creating something meant to be viewed/read, and you are putting it out there to be viewed/read, then you are putting it out there to be studied, scrutinized, enjoyed, loathed, and everything in between. If you don’t want to accept everything that might come your way, then don’t put it out there.

That’s the very reason why I don’t show my art in galleries–my work is not ready for the critical eye. But at the same time, the critique is what I enjoyed the most about having a joined studio of artists–the others working beside me could see things I couldn’t. They had expertise in some areas where I lacked and they could advise me so I could improve…and vice versa. I once had a mentor tell me a painting I slaved over was a “successful failure”…this did not mean that I was a failure as an artist, rather it meant that I was successful in taking necessary risks even though my piece didn’t survive them. And with that critique, I found liberation and was able to turn my painting around and create something beautiful.

Regardless if fan fiction is “just for fun”, it’s still a craft and even if you’re not completely serious about it, it’s important to take pride in your work….otherwise, what’s the point? If you’re writing just for the sole purpose of the enjoyment you get out of writing, or if you are using writing as a tool for self-expression and exploration, that’s wonderful…but don’t post it on the internet if it’s something you don’t want opinions on. It’s a simple solution.

Alright…enough rambling from me. Peace out.