critting: what is expected, an invitation to discuss Options

[Guest_Toumai_*]

Hi everyone,

I have been reading with great interest the comments on what type of critique various members would ideally like to receive, which gives valuable insight for all of us learning this process.

Critting work is almost as much of an art form as writing.

One important lesson I have learnt, is that a crit does not necessarily mean offering suggestions for improvement.  What I enjoy most when critting work is when I can offer my own interpretations of what I have read.  Sometimes I grasp the meaning and sometimes I do not, especially If the poem is very abstract.

Extract from NINA's comments.

As a 'newbie' to all of this I doubt very much if I can crit as any poet - or prose writer - would ideally like, and I often feel I should beg indulgence for my ineptitude as I stumble along the path of learning.

However, I also wonder if it is ever fair to say to a critter 'this is how I wish to be critted' as the critter is the one doing the work at this stage. If a piece of work is in an open crit forum it may be interpreted in many different ways, seen in many different lights.

So what if it is a form piece that will only be published in such a journal eventually - perhaps a new insight will arise from review by those more used to free verse. So what if it is a means to a message - a discussion of rhythm may improve it's flow.

With love to all - and appreciation for all the wonderful crits I have received here on MM - thank you.

Fran

[Guest_Nina_*]

Hi Fran

I have been reading this discussion with interest.  When I first joined MM, I was very nervous about critting a work.  I had done very little critting and didn't feel in the least bit qualified to do so.  It felt very daunting  especially when reading the in-depth crits given.  

However, I also wonder if it is ever fair to say to a critter 'this is how I wish to be critted' as the critter is the one doing the work at this stage. If a piece of work is in an open crit forum it may be interpreted in many different ways, seen in many different lights.
I think sometimes it can be useful for a newcomer if a writer has strong feelings about what they do or do not want suggestions on.  It saves a lot of frustration both for the writer and critter.  It is only when you get to know everyone on the board that you become aware of what they appreciate from a crit.

Using James' comments as an example:

If someone crits my rhythm I shalln't be rude and tell them I've put up "no rhythm crits thanks." But, for those who do read what I put up, they can save themselves much effort which would be wasted on me.

There has been the odd occasion where I have offered suggestions and from the response, I have realised that the writer was obviously looking for something different from a crit to what I had written.  It does feel a bit disheartening, having taken the time to comment.


I tend to work from instinct and gut reactions to a work rather than any guidelines, being far too lazy to follow them anyway.

Nina