FIREBORN

If one critique is good, a dozen must be better. I asked for volunteers on a couple of writers? mailing lists and found six or eight more takers who didn?t know better than to just keep quiet. They all received a copy of the story, and within a few days all had responded.

The one thing that writers can all agree on is, well, I?m still looking for it. Each person gave me a unique look at the work from a different perspective. Some deleted unnecessary words. Others had issues with flow or clarity. Several gave me ideas for a different spin. Good and helpful suggestions all.

I confess: I did not use all of any person?s suggestions. Of the ideas I implemented, only a few word choices made literal appearances. I did, however, look at each comment and issue while keeping the story in my own voice. The work turned out much better than if I had forged ahead with no input from helpful fellow travelers.

The process taught me much about the crafting of a story, and I observed some things along the way.

I don?t know everything. Actually, I keep learning this, but that?s another story. I?m too close to see my own mistakes. I need the help of others to point out flaws and unclear passages, and sometimes to see an alternate tack that might make the story sing.

Writers, and others, will help you if you ask. Generally, you need to do all the homework you can first. Nobody likes to do the work for you, but most will help you over the hump if they are able.

Finally, there is value in community. When each helps the other, the group members benefit in a way they could not by themselves. The eighteenth-century economist, Adam Smith, described an "invisible hand" which helps guide our civilization. He said about a person who participates in society (or a critique group), "By pursuing his own interest he frequently promotes that of the society more effectually than when he really intends to promote it."

 So, after this rambling, what am I saying? Participate. If you are a writer, join a critique group. If you?re a bricklayer, see how you can help other bricklayers. You and everyone in the group will benefit.

       
                  
        You can read about Joe and his work in progress  at  www.jdtrent.com