stupid, overemotional echo

[spankerella]

Ever have a day where you get that one review that just makes your spirits plummet? Because it hits you where it hurts? Ever want to tell people if that's what they really think then don't bother next time? I hate when I let things like this get to me... because it makes me question if people REALLY like things or if they're just saying 'good work' so I'll keep working. That might not make sense. It's like one review erases all the good things.

Echo, you know I adore your work, and tell you so every time I leave a review, but when I read this chapter, I just didn't see the emotion and interaction I normally have seen with your chapters. The scenario is flawless, but I just didn't feel this chapter as I felt the others. It felt like you were putting up this chapter just to make your fans happy... Sorry if any of this sound rude. Keep your head up and your eyes shining..

Much love,
*name removed*

Wow. Thanks for making me feel like total crap about my writing ability. I've only spent the last month writing on that part.

I know I shouldn't let this get to me. My brain is actually saying that, but I just can't help it. I feel like I suck right now. A more rational part of me is saying this is just one person's opinion, but I'm questioning now. Maybe I shouldn't be writing until I'm sure I can again. I have so many ideas, but right now I feel like they aren't good enough.

Gonna go crawl in a hole now.

eta: OK! No hole! I get it. Jesus Christ monkey balls. I'll stop feeling sorry for myself because as far as my writing I have nothing to feel sorry about, but I'm telling you that review HURT MY FEELINGS. Yes, I have feelings. Damn.

eta2: Over it. Pissed off and writing like a demon. The pity party was just busted up by the Cranky Pants police. Feelings = still hurt because I'm offended that someone would even suggest I'd post "partially baked cookies", but the hurt is currently being channeled into some fabulous fic character frustration. No need to comment on the sad state of affairs unless you just want to.

...echo out.

*

Comments

I know you're in our Yahoo Group (BWA) but....

[sue-bridehead.livejournal.com]

Hi, Echo - I cross-posted this over there, but since there are massive amounts of messages there (I can barely keep up with the "flooding"), I hoped you would take the time to read it here:

******

This is an encouraging thought when a nasty review, or a general lack
of reviews on a particular fic, has got you down:

"I pay no attention whatever to anybody's praise or blame. I simply
follow my own feelings."

-Wolfgang Amadeus Mozart

For me, it's the only way to write or create anything that matters to
your most important critic: YOU. If you did your homework, planned
carefully, and took the time to write it well, then your readers will
be satisfied, whether or not they submit a review. (Heck, they're
*reading* it, aren't they?)

And the nasty reviews? If reviews have nothing positive to offer and
you believe the work has merit, then I say forget them. Those people
are either just hateful, wanted something different than your fic
delivered (such as a different ending), or are too lazy to offer you
constructive criticism - because face it: good, truly helpful C&C
takes time. And a scathing review never helps anyone.

******

Glad you've gotten past it and are ready to rock and roll!

Sue Bridehead