So this is the final part of my Critique Group blog series. In the first part, I talked about what makes a good critique group. Last week in the second part, I gave a few tips on how to give critique feedback.
This week, I’m going to talk about how to receive critique feedback, which can sometimes be the hardest part.
And I’m going to cheat just a little because just last week, I read an excellent post about receiving critique feedback by Jennifer R. Hubbard, author of the YA novel, The Secret Year (which has a fabulous lush cover that must be touched in person). She also has other related posts about critique groups as well.
So along the lines of Jennifer’s six tips, here’s how I receive critique feedback:
Give Thanks. One summer I had a novel swap with four other writers. I really appreciated the time and energy these writers spent critiquing my work. Even if the feedback you receive is only a few pages, remember that person (especially if they are a writer) took the time to read your work and help you make it better.
Don’t Say Anything. I have a “friend” (okay it was me, LOL) who didn’t understand that it’s not your job to “explain” your writing. Readers won’t have that luxury when they’re reading your book. So especially in face-to-face meetings, keep quiet and listen. Only speak when the feedback is finished or if asked. This is crucial in a formal critique structure—by speaking you are wasting precious minutes that can be used for feedback.
Look for Trends. If you see the same comments or hear the same problems from different critiquers—perk up. There is something in your work that makes these readers stumble. This is a great indicator of where to target your focus during revisions.
Let It Sit. After a feedback session or a formal critique, it can be overwhelming to figure out what to tackle for revision. The best thing is to let it digest and think about the feedback first before trying to implement the suggestions into your work.
Try It Out. This is a valuable lesson that I’ve learned. Sometimes when I don’t necessarily agree with something, I try it out anyway. Worse case, it doesn’t work and I take it out. But you may be surprised at what you find—it may not be the exact change suggested but it could be the catalyst to making your story stronger.
Own The Words. In the end, it’s your novel. Own it. You are the only one who really knows what the story is about and what you are doing. So take the suggestions that resonate with you and disregard the rest. There are many ways to approach a novel. You as a writer have to find your way.
Sometimes receiving critique feedback can be nerve wracking—especially a formal one with an agent or an editor. But remember, the whole point of a critique is not praise. A critique is not about telling the writer how great they are (even though they could be fabulous). Critiques are not about the writer. It’s about the work. And what can be done to make it better.
Hope that this critique group series was helpful! I would love to hear what other writers do to help them manage critique feedback.
There’s a lot in wisdom in that post. Sometimes learned the hard way.
I’ve learned not take it personally. I’ve learned not to have too many critters. And I’ve learned not to take them personally. :)
Really good advice. Receiving a crit is a skill & we’ve gotta practice. I especially like the advice to not explain your writing – that’s hard to do. :)
Laura: You definitely can’t take it personally. It’s all about the work.
Jemi: Not explaining is something I still need to work on but I’m getting better.
Glad y’all found the post useful.