Creative Writing - Making the Most of Feedback
How to Prepare When Workshopping Novels Prior to Final Drafts
Oct 12, 2008
Writing groups often include workshopping as part of the routine and with a well-organised and constructive process, this can be very valuable. However, offering up our work, especially when it is unfinished, for the opinion of others is not easy to do so deciding how to handle the feedback is a good idea.
What to Expect
It is reasonable to expect that the work will be read thoroughly. If this clearly hasn't happened, then the only thing to do is just not ask that person or group a second time.
If however, they seem fully committed but to have missed certain aspects, consider if this may be an area of the writing that needs attention. Faults in our own writing can go unnoticed because we are too close to see them clearly.
Receiving Feedback
When feedback is given in a workshop situation, the best way to receive it is silently. Resist the temptation to prepare the readers with an explanation of what the overall plan is or why certain aspects of the work may need their special attention. Have the courage to let it stand alone, though this is easier said than done!
Similarly, avoid launching into a spirited defence of the work, especially one that involves a frank opinion of the reader's integrity, intelligence or understanding! Remember that if the reader is setting out to offend, then taking offence simply allows them to succeed.
Make Notes
Keeping track of what has been said can be difficult without notes, so, even if the comments don't seem relevant at the time, jot them down. They may fall into place later. If the same comment comes up from several readers, then take it seriously. Considering why several people have come to the same conclusion – however ridiculous it may seem - will help in refining the work.
Keep Smiling
If any reader is destructive, negative or insulting, take a deep breath and let them get on with it. Responding in the same vein will only escalate a situation and it is far better in the long run to let someone else reveal their failings than to join in and add to the picture!
In a well-organised group, the tutor or workshop leader should step in if boundaries are crossed. But some people are more outspoken than others without intending any harm and ‘brutal honesty’ that sets out to destroy the work may actually reveal jealously so try taking it as a compliment!
Afterwards
The best response to being critiqued is simply to say 'Thankyou'. Asking for clarification on any unclear points is fine but keep questions brief. Accept that even criticism we know is valid, given in the kindest
way, can be hard to hear and try to swallow any feelings of anger or resentment. Look modest if every reader says the work is wonderful and still pay close to attention to what that offers to build on.
Reviewing the Review
After a day or so to absorb the information, it’s worth paying serious attention to every comment that was made - both positive and negative. Whenever we are absolutely certain that criticism is wrong, to the point of feeling angry about it, there’s a good chance this is an area we need to look at again. A strong defensive reaction often means that deep down, we know the comment is correct but we haven’t worked out how to deal with it yet.
Start with the positive points and look at what they say about the writing – they can then be used to address any queries, suggestions or criticisms by developing what is already working. The most useful feedback helps to cast a light on our work when we are in our own shadow – taking the step back to let someone else read it may not be easy, but it’s usually worthwhile.
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