Criticism: You May Not Want it Now, But You Should

Most people don’t like to hear that word. Especially when it has to do with something they’ve written.  But for writers, criticism is a very important part of writing.  It is invaluable to get feedback on your writing when it is finished and not only the good, but the bad.  For one thing, it’s logical.  Wouldn’t it be better to have someone point out flaws in your writing while you can still fix it instead of sending it in hopes of being published and you hear it from an editor by way of a form rejection letter?  I would much rather be saved that!  But it also gives you an idea on what kinds of mistakes you make in your writing; often it is the same kind over and over.  Maybe you have trouble getting facts right in historical writings.  Maybe you have problems with plot, character, or any number of things.  Personally, I always find it very useful to get other’s opinions on my writing, because I want it to be the best that I can make it.  I always want at least one other person to read it, maybe more.  I could ask my older cousin, my pen pal who also enjoys writing, my old writing teacher or the one I currently have.  Once I asked my mom, but I admit I don’t ask my family for their opinions very often; I’m more comfortable asking others.  And if you’re writing something for kids or teens, ask someone who would be the correct age to read it and see their opinion!  However you do it, I suggest that when you’re done with a writing project and you’ve revised and edited it the best you can, to ask someone else, that you TRUST, to read it and give both the good and the bad about it, especially if you want to improve your writing – which all writers should want to do.  J