A Review
The most important thing to learn is this: mastery of any craft only comes after the (who said this?) 10,000 hours of practical effort under the guidance of those who know and have mastered the skill. What it means is we learn from experience, from the doing of something while taking advice from those we respect and have value in the world of our craft. It’s not easy, it’s not quick, but the journey will lead you to the most amazing places, both in the real world and everywhere else.
The above is part of my mantra. Why? I hear you ask – because it would be more than miraculous if I tried to think I could do this (writing) without all that effort. And what that effort needs is people who are willing to not only read my words and stories, but to offer their insights into how the story felt to them.
That insight is more important than an editor. A reader is the most important element of any story.
She raised issues that need addressing in order for the storytelling skills to improve. Those issues are also reflected in other reviews. The message is clear. More work and effort is required.
How would I know what needed work if I didn’t take notice of the most important part of a writers world? That’s what a reader is – the most important part of the equation. I know not every reader is going to enjoy the same story, which is why the title and blurb are written to ensure it captures the right reader.
What do I need to work on based on the feedback received on this story?
Setting – Character in setting – Depth of character – World building.
Personally, I’m not a fan of the LOTR series because of the [count of pages of] descriptions that go on forever, or the cold, wet forests [which are not part of my world], and the number of characters. I know it’s epic, I know it changed (or created) the genre, I know the story is fantastic. I’m speaking as an individual, so I know those words will offend some readers (Hi, Mousie. Sorry!). But as the reader, I get to have my say about how it appealed to me – or not. That’s my right.
As a writer, I need to take into account what a reader wants, expects, and feels about the story. I can’t write a story to appeal to every single reader on the planet, but it does need to take account of the ones I do aim for.
That’s the value of reviews. All of them. And I love them for their words that will help me on my journey through the next story, and the next, and …
BTW Next week is the Smashwords sale. Some books are half price. Maybe you get to have your say (nudge, nudge).
And as I seem to have problems with adding pictures, that’s your lot. For this year, anyway. See you all next year, and be safe and well over the season – whether it be your summer or winter solstice.
