I agree that, after the votes are in, constructive criticism would be helpful if presented in a thread. Right now, the only thing keeping me from totally freaking out is that Mark said he voted for me
, so I know I got at least one vote. I didn't expect to feel this fragile.
I agree with Jenna about different strokes. On the closure thing, I like to understand the end without having it spelled out to me: "So Jim Bob decided to do X," just as I'm not fond of including the phrase "John Boy was at a crossroads" in a piece. Either of those, to me, is telling more than showing. Speaking of which... am I showing my age by referencing
The Waltons?
I think I'm one of the two Jenna mentioned
; I overwrite so much initially that by the time I get down to the word count, I can't bear to cut anything else. I need to get brutal.
My other thought, and again maybe people can address this on Wednesday (or by PM), is that my piece, and the character's arc, is very internal. I can see how people who prefer external action wouldn't find mine compelling. It's a good learning exercise.
Feel free to send me PMs. All I ask is that you be gentle...