This is a richly layered discussion and so helpful! All of you talk about the importance of a relationship between critique partners, and I wonder if that relationship can be developed along the way, maybe by modeling the kind of critique you want to receive (as Christi suggests). Finding a solid critique group seems challenging. I haven't yet found or formed one, but I've received wonderful critiques from more experienced writers who are friends. TJ mentioned sometimes discussing a gestalt reaction, and I think that can be valuable. When a reader sees what I'm trying to do and values it (and values me), then it's easier for me to let go of my insecurity and savor the joy of steering my story closer to my vision for it.
Absolutely! It’s important and can be very validating when someone sees the forest rather than always focusing on the trees! Thanks for reading, and I hope you will build an ideal critique group soon—I’m sure you can!
I had not read it when I wrote this post, but Steve Almond's chapter "Adventures in Workshop Land" from TRUTH IS THE ARROW, MERCY IS THE BOW would also be very good reading on this topic.
This is a richly layered discussion and so helpful! All of you talk about the importance of a relationship between critique partners, and I wonder if that relationship can be developed along the way, maybe by modeling the kind of critique you want to receive (as Christi suggests). Finding a solid critique group seems challenging. I haven't yet found or formed one, but I've received wonderful critiques from more experienced writers who are friends. TJ mentioned sometimes discussing a gestalt reaction, and I think that can be valuable. When a reader sees what I'm trying to do and values it (and values me), then it's easier for me to let go of my insecurity and savor the joy of steering my story closer to my vision for it.
Absolutely! It’s important and can be very validating when someone sees the forest rather than always focusing on the trees! Thanks for reading, and I hope you will build an ideal critique group soon—I’m sure you can!
I had not read it when I wrote this post, but Steve Almond's chapter "Adventures in Workshop Land" from TRUTH IS THE ARROW, MERCY IS THE BOW would also be very good reading on this topic.