Nancy
asked
Lois McMaster Bujold:
A long time ago, I asked you about feeling "bookicidal" (your word) about my own work. Your answer was empathetic, and I've carried it gratefully all these years. But now I have pressing financial concerns and a beta-reader who is so uninterested that she wants me to send her the Cliff's notes. I can't pander to that: I can only despair in its wake. Where do I find the courage to make a silk purse out of a sow's ear?
Lois McMaster Bujold
It sounds as if you might need a new beta reader. They do wear out, over time; nothing lasts forever. (Although a writer can wear them out faster by making them read repeated revisions, something to be avoided.) Nor is any given beta reader suitable for all works. Also, no one will ever be as interested in your own writing as you are (rather naturally) so expecting them to somehow carry you goes beyond what one can reasonably ask from a crit.
I don't know about courage, but if you want information the resource I recommend is this: http://www.pcwrede.com/blog/
Or for the short portable version, this: https://www.amazon.com/Wrede-Writing-...
Scattered through are a number of useful and sensible posts on coping with critique problems, from both sides.
Financial concerns likely need to be addressed separately, though also sensibly -- no one in the modern world can live without money, the more independently obtained the better -- and are outside of my range.
Good luck!
L.
It sounds as if you might need a new beta reader. They do wear out, over time; nothing lasts forever. (Although a writer can wear them out faster by making them read repeated revisions, something to be avoided.) Nor is any given beta reader suitable for all works. Also, no one will ever be as interested in your own writing as you are (rather naturally) so expecting them to somehow carry you goes beyond what one can reasonably ask from a crit.
I don't know about courage, but if you want information the resource I recommend is this: http://www.pcwrede.com/blog/
Or for the short portable version, this: https://www.amazon.com/Wrede-Writing-...
Scattered through are a number of useful and sensible posts on coping with critique problems, from both sides.
Financial concerns likely need to be addressed separately, though also sensibly -- no one in the modern world can live without money, the more independently obtained the better -- and are outside of my range.
Good luck!
L.
More Answered Questions
Tony Robinson
asked
Lois McMaster Bujold:
Is there any chance of getting more prequel novels in the Vorkosigan Saga? I have read all of the books, and one of my coworkers (who turned me on to them the books about 4 years ago) both would love to see a book detailing the Komarr revolt, or the Cetagandan occupation with focus on Aral and Piotr respectively.
JHM
asked
Lois McMaster Bujold:
Hi Lois - I am currently a member of a jury for a homicide case. The last three weeks have been very tough intellectually and emotionally. Two days ago I re--read "A Civil Campaign." It was exactly what I needed to lighten my spirit. Yesterday I re-read "Shards of Honor" - one of my all-time favorite books - and that helped too. I love your books, but they are especially dear to me now. Thank you. ?
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