Is it trollish...

[Quint]

To post "hey, can you give me feedback on my story?" on the Author's Hangout board? Isn't that reserved for "Story Feedback"? Cuz I really need feedback*, and I've posted on said feedback board, but I know that the majority of the people who post on THIS one are serious authors, whose feedback in particular I'd like. I just haven't picked up that protocol yet (and apparently neither have several other people).

*I just finished Chapter 2 of "Sweet Salvation" and I'm all giddy and wanting to be put in my place.

 

[Couture]

Probably the best way to ask for feedback is to give it to an another author.

Yes, there are free lunches, but they don't come around that often.

 

[karmadog]

Although I sympathise, I think that it is a little trollish.

If this becomes just another forum for asking for feedback it will become unbearably cluttered.

 

[Axeltheswede]

Trollish behavior

I agree with Couture. The best feedback comes from a relationship with another author. The way to initiate contact is a feedback email on a story you like, in a category where you post.

My semi-regular email trades with a half dozen other authors are interesting. They are also mutually beneficial. Criticism is easier to take from a friend.

As to whether this behavior is "trollish", I guess we should all visit our local Gap stores and poll the trolls.

 

[KillerMuffin]

I think it's not necessarily trollish to do so, but it would ruin the board. We have one feedback void already, let's please keep it that way.

I agree with Couture. Develop a feedback loop. As for getting feedback and receiving in turn? Never worked for me. Of course I did it on the board and not through email.

Feedback is just one of those things. I accept that I will not get what I need that way.

I would like, instead, to have a writers group that actually works. Speaking of which, is it still running at MSN, Couture? Would it be possible to return there and fine tune it? Katie hated MSN, but she's out. Wolf appears to be out as well, and he wasn't fond of MSN either. What do you think? Nevermind, I'm going to start a new thread.

 

[wildsweetone]

to KM, your words prompted me to reply

i admit straight up, i wouldn't dare presume myself capable of giving feedback on your work. it's far above anything that i've written and at most i'd only be able to pass on a very general personal opinion on your work.

even your feedback comes across as so concise that i could never dream of having enough skill to give you anything specifically worthwhile.

it's odd i've seen you mention your lack of feedback unless you've specifically asked for it before.

personally, i like the occasional feedback i receive from my readers (i think i have a couple now). but without downing those feedback emails, if i want a detailed opinion, i ask for it. either on the open 'story feedback' board or through specific authors.

perhaps there are others who feel similar to me.

 

[Couture]

Rule #1, anyone can give feedback. While some of us are weak with mechanics etc., we all know what we like or what we dislike.

It's all subjective anyway. Don't feel intimidated by any author. All authors appreciate feedback.