To Be A Writer

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Tue, 2009-11-10 19:56

To Be A Writer

To be a writer is frustrating. I look around at everyone on this site and think "gee, they all write better than I do." and simmer in my frustration. Or, I write something and post it, thinking it's pretty darn marvelous and then, when it's not cherry picked, am left scratching my head wondering why it wasn't.

Does no cherry from Tcook mean my writing isnt good? Does it mean he didnt have time to read it? Perhaps it just wasnt his style?

These are things that go through my head, when I see my latest piece that I thought was pretty darn good wasnt cherry picked.

I sit there, wondering a bit, for a day or so and then, like clockwork, in about month, i'll post another piece.

Does this happen to anyone else? Or, do you feel diffrently about the whole process?

How do I know if I suck at writing or if I'm good at it?

Wed, 2009-11-11 17:13

poetjude

Personally, I have been more concerned in the past with editors who were too easy with their fruit! That said, it is always encouraging to get a cherry no matter which editor it's from. I think Fergal was the best editor; a cherry from her was a rare thing indeed but when you received one, you knew that your piece had achieved a certain standard of quality. She also took the time to email sometimes to say "This piece has potential. I did not give a cherry because of X, Y and Z..." jude

Wed, 2009-11-11 17:15

poetjude

Also, I would add that certain things like poor grammar or spelling are instant turn-offs to any editor. To give your work the best chance of getting recognition is to proof it carefully and make sure you re-draft and give it a polish before posting.

Wed, 2009-11-11 18:32

tcook

Jude is right about grammar and spelling. I am aware that cherry picking is a subjective thing. I am not the only Editor - although I do the bulk of the reading and cherrying - but I can assure you that every piece on here is read by an Editor and either cherried or not. I do try and leave comments on a lot of pieces - especially if I think it has promise but needs a bit more work. I will look out for yours in particular for the next month or so!

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