Working a Two-Way Street
by Patience Bloom
We editors often hear about writers getting feedback from their critique partners. Generally, we love that this relationship exists because writing needs critiquing. The “just finished” manuscript isn’t at the stage where we step in (unless it’s pure genius—and then, even we would be jealous). Sure, some people write books, then submit to a publisher or self-publish and instantly achieve bestseller status. For many, though, there is a learning and revising curve before submission. Your story should be in great shape when it hits our desks, which means asking for help.
Luckily, the romance genre provides all kinds of helpful support with RWA, other organizations, agents and editors. Working with a critique partner can be a positive learning experience, not to mention a confidence-booster for when you show your work to a larger group.
Here are some steps to consider as you find the perfect critique partner:
- Take a vow of truth. You and your partner will be honest with each other about the work. You can be friendly and truthful at the same time.
- Respect each other’s talents. Your partner may excel at plotting. You like to dive into characterization. No one writes the way you do, and would you want that anyway? Give critique based on your partner’s individual style and expertise.
- Watch that you don’t sandwich criticism in too many compliments: I love how you make the hero go over the waterfall in a barrel, but you might want to fix the entire story. The bad stuff often takes center stage, but wrapping it in praise can make it worse. It’s difficult to be critical, especially with so much at stake (a story over which you’ve poured blood, sweat and tears). Give real praise, of course, and show your enthusiasm—just make sure your partner doesn’t have to anticipate the “but” in your verdict. You’ve taken a vow of truth, after all. The more you work with a partner, the more you can learn the other’s language and evolve toward being direct. The goal is to make the story better. Praise and criticism are a vital part of this process.
- Be specific: You and your partner should list specific ways to fix your stories, not just “make it better.” The more specific you are, the more helpful you can be to your partner.
- Be timely. If your partner turns your story around fast, so should you. Unless life intervenes, which happens.
- Take the criticism, sit with it, then do better. No matter how committed you are to revising your work, take the time to digest the suggestions and then dive in. You know your work will improve.
- Be supportive. If your partner needs a boost, be there. You are your partner’s cheerleader, critic, and advocate.
- Return the favor. Do you see a writer-friend in need? Ask if they need a critique partner.
The critique partner is a unique relationship in that it is reciprocal, professional and can have a basis in friendship. You may curse your partner one day, then thank the heavens you had this person to raise your novel to a higher level. As you embark on the journey of recrafting prose, stay positive about the process, keep writing and then show us what you’ve done.
Comments ( 7 )
I spent the entire shutdown working. Had no time to wind down. I didn’t see my son much when school shutdown. My one co worker was told to stay home for 3 weeks so I picked up her hours. This year has been really crappy.
Ugh, Janell. Here’s hoping the rest of your summer is better.
Thanks for the info, Carol! Everyone is different in how they deal with the shutdown! I stay at home all the time since I don’t work so I haven’t been too effected but my shopping and errands sure have been effected!
Valri, I’ve been doing most of my shopping online. My local Target is still low on some items – mostly cleaning supplies. Grocery store is pretty much back to normal. Most of the dining in our town is outdoor. I can’t imagine have school-age kids!
Wow–getting your creative process on track must have been daunting–especially with “extra-large dog” glad to have you home. You don’t like coffee–I love coffee and have enjoyed my fortifying 2 cups in the morning even more than usual! How as COVID affected your story lines and characterizations? Best Wishes for all releases!
Interesting question, Virginia. You’ll have to tell me if the tone of my “COVID” books changed any! LOL
Life has changed so much! My dad passed Feb 2. The assisted living facility my folks were at went into hardcore lockdown the beginning of March. Mom couldn’t leave her apartment for 4 months! She was on the third floor, Will be 89 in two months & doesn’t use the phone. My husband and I remodeled the lower level completely and moved her in with us July 1. What a life change and difficult transition for the 3 of us! But we’re working thru it!