Take it like a Writer

We all have moments as a writer where we want to shove our work out the window and call it a wash.

A chapter isn't working.

The POV is all wrong.

No one likes your main character.

We work through those steps like a champ... okay, so not exactly like a champ. I keep the food staples in the house - wine, cookies, and ice cream (speaking of which BLUE BELL has just made individual woman sizes - yea, they said woman sizes... that's kind of awesome... but off topic). So yea, I have the food staples to carry me to the next phase.

Next phase meaning you've revised the crap out of your novel and it's now in possession of your crit buddies. Or what I like to call the crit tryouts. Those in which you send a chapter and see what they think.

Then you wait.

And wait.

And wait.

Then you get it back and EVERYTHING is red.

This is where you need to take it like a writer.

Deep breaths, read what's written, think objectively, and close the document. Why? Because thinking objectively  never happens the first round (yes, I'm referring to myself). I normally cry (if there is a lot of red)... they hate me, they think I'm a bad writer, maybe I am... maybe I suck. Those are the things that run through my head.

I've found waiting THREE days does wonders. It gives me time to thank the critique buddy for all they've done once you realize it was helpful.

So next time you get a critique and you want to scream... give it three days. It'll help. Take it like a writer.

What works for you?

How do you crit?

We’re all different and that usually means we do things differently as well. I’ve been wondering how fellow writers choose their critique buddies and how they personally critique.

Do you choose a group of your same genre or are you one to break out of the mold and try something fresh and new?

Do you read a chapter before deciding if you’ll connect with the characters before making the connection with the author?

Are you light hearted and supportive when you tear a person’s work a part?

Are you one who gives a very honest critique and sometimes can be displayed as rude and hurtful?

I personally don’t have a critique group set in stone. Though I’ve tried to fit in to several groups I’ve never quite meshed. I love all of them but I just never felt the connection with their stories like I’d hoped. It was then I realized I’d chosen them for the wrong reasons.

I’d chosen them because they were my friends. I loved them. We loved each other. We got along so naturally so would our work. Though I loved everything I’ve read from all of them I never felt like I fit.

That was until just the other day. A secret someone – I will not name unless they want me too – came into my life (She’s been around we just finally connected) who writes the same stuff I write. Together we clicked. We’ve read one another’s work and fallen in love. I love reading all of hers and I’m constantly dying for more. She’s the first time I felt like I belonged.

So I guess for me it really was about the connection with the story AND it’s writer. For me it was about sitting in the same genre. Someone who can understand the ins and outs for what you’re up against. Though I’ve written three YA novels my love is for chick lit. I want someone to read my work that loves it as much as I do.

So… tell me your story!

McMahon Madness!

Contest links down at the bottom today :)

Let's talk about Shannon McMahon a fabulous blogger (a badass far away friend) for several reasons. But I'm here to talk about one reason in particular...

Annonymous Critiques!

Fun facts about Shannon (cuz this will entice you even more to stop for a visit)...

1. Who is Shannon?
Ack! This sounds like an interview question! Last year during an interview I answered “use three words to describe you?” with, “direct, tenacious and…goofy.” Yup. I used GOOFY to describe myself during a job interview. Loyal? Hardworking? Pfft…who needs those adjectives when there’s “goofy.” /smack head.

I’m a California transplant living in Southern Maine with Michael, the love of my life. When not working, I’m either writing, consuming copious amounts of wine, experimenting in the kitchen, or exploring the area.

2. Give us one random and unnecessary fact about yourself.
I’m pretty sure some part of my brain is convinced that my life is a musical. I break into song, making them up as I go along. There’s the “I am so bored” song, the “have you seen my glasses” song, and “I love Michael more than chocolate” song. I guess it wouldn’t be so bad if I could carry a tune.

3. Why did you come up with free critique sessions? Did you pose as Annonymous for one?
Not too long ago I handed my manuscript over to my new CP. The moment I sent her my pages, I became an absolute wreck. I fretted over my decision until self doubt poured a cup of coffee and made himself at home. What if my writing is too clunky? What if my dialog feels forced? What if my characters are flat? What if the story is boring? What if I’m just not good enough?

I beat myself up most of the day until I finally got an email from her, telling me that she absolutely loved it. I raised an eyebrow. Oh really now? Loved it, huh? Was she being honest? How could I be sure? What if she just didn’t want to hurt my feelings? What if she was just trying to be NICE?

Ha. Welcome to my neurotic mind.

I decided that if I felt this way about sharing my work, other writers must, too and BAM! The Anonymous Critique solution was born.
I haven’t submitted any of my own writing (yet).

4. What world of writing do you hail from (aka genre)?
Young Adult

Fun & Random Facts:

What you couldn't live without
1. Cable or Internet - Internet
2. Home phone or Cell phone - Home
3. Soda or Coffee - Coffee
4. Music or Television - Music

Sweet Tooth
1. Sweet or Salty- Both!
2. Favorite treat – Pretzel M&M’s
3. Best snack hour – 9:00pm

Who would win
1. Bear or Mountain Lion – Da bear
2. Dragon or Dinosaur – Dragons breathe fire. F-i-r-e!
3. Cat or Dog – Cat
4. Pirate or Ninja – Pirates. Wenches, gold, and rum = win

Book & TV Power
1. Fav Author - William Shakespeare
2. Fav Read - I can’t possibly pick one
3. Fav Character- Claudia from Interview with a Vampire
4. Fav TV Show - Survivor
5. Fav Actor/Actress - Hugh Jackman

Isn't she awesome?! Like seriously?! Go and enjoy her blog and the critiques!

cOnTeSt ReMiNdErS:
For the love of Gifts Giveaway - contest closes Jan 19th. Get your name in now!
A.B. Keuser - Serious awesome contest! Her book (cover to die for) up for grabs!
Cristina - Water for Elephants Giveaway!
Elena - $100 for 100 words blogfest (I haven't forgot! I still need to do mine! Ah!)