Criticism: Not Agreeable, But Necessary

“Criticism may not be agreeable, but it is necessary. It fulfils the same function as pain in the human body. It calls attention to an unhealthy state of things.” Winston Churchill


Photo by Horia Varlen - via flickr

The long shadow loomed over her shoulder. She ran, gaining distance, diving under the first available cover she could find. If she stayed still, and oh so quiet, perhaps she would go unnoticed thus avoiding what would undoubtedly be a painful confrontation.

That is how I sometimes feel, though I seldom run for cover now and I try very hard to remain open to criticism of my writing. I am an amateur after all. One cannot learn without taking lessons and advice from others. Having said that, I always try to take what I read and hear with a rather large grain of salt and sometimes, when required, a healthy shot of tequila.

Criticism is prejudice made plausible. H.L. Mencke

Not all critics are unemotional about that which they are critiquing. Some are simply standing on a soapbox airing not only their opinions, but their prejudices and biases as well.

As a writer I am always looking for guidance and expertise, but it angers me when knowledgeable and notable authors offer their assistance with a total lack of empathy and a large dose of arrogance. Their time is spent slamming and demeaning the efforts of others. This, to me, is much like a politician expounding on everything his opponent is doing wrong, yet he offers nothing about how the situation could be improved or what his advice on a project might be.

Writers are caught between the proverbial rock and hard place; needing to show their work in order to receive advice and criticism, but often being made to feel foolish and incompetent for their efforts. This then begets the spiral into self-doubt as confidence and enthusiasm takes another hit. Even if not destined to become a bestselling author, writers deserve the chance to improve their knowledge and skills.

Criticism, like rain, should be gentle enough to nourish a man's growth without destroying his roots. Frank Howard Clark

As warm and fuzzy as all that feedback received from friends and family is, we need to rely on the advice of professionals in order to advance our skills. Thanks to the age of Internet, everything we could ever need is at our fingertips. We have to avail ourselves of the advice and criticism and, yes, the prejudices forced upon us.

I have always preferred the hands on approach. I simply learn better from doing than from watching and studying. Don’t get me wrong, studying is still a necessary evil and, as I have learned, nothing bad can come from a worthy creative writing class. However, I learn best from show and tell. I’ll show you what I have done and you tell me where my weaknesses and strengths are, preferably in a constructive, un-condescending manner.

Eventually writers must show their work to somebody and open themselves up to criticism. Just be prepared to take the nourishment offered and pluck the noxious weeds. This will allow your root systems to spread and strengthen so that each day you can stand tall and proud as you grow.


Cheryl is the author of Little Synni’s Moonlight Mischief, the first book in The Stibil Forest Adventures, illustrations by sculptress - Chris Jammer.