Negative Reviews – Why People Gotta Hate?!

3 min read

Good afternoon!

I’ll be honest, until I entered this insane world that is writing, I’d never once written a review. For ANYTHING, much less a book. Until recently I never realized the importance of them, and I never even considered the joy an author would feel at reading something positive about their work.

Now I have been converted and thoroughly enjoy writing reviews, as well as reading reviews others have posted.

I’ve seen some pretty mean ones…and it just makes me wonder…why people gotta hate?! 😉

But seriously, I love stories of all different sizes and genres. I feel like the decision to choose not to read something just because it’s too short or too long, or maybe the topic isn’t one you’d typically go for is a little…dare I say…silly?

But lets say you do read something, and it’s really not your cup of tea…why do you then feel the need to write a scathing review? Is it really necessary? Does it make you feel better to rip apart someone’s creation just because it didn’t fit into your particular comfort zone? Why possibly ruin it for other readers who, unfortunately, might be swayed by what you have to say?

Am I insane in thinking this is ludicrous?!

I have not received one of these nasty reviews yet (at least not written, mine came in the form of an ex-coworker, but that’s an entry for another time), but I’m sure if I continue to write, one will be on it’s way at some point.

Here’s my thought… Anyone who puts their hard work and passion into their stories, writes from their heart, and then has the guts to put it out there to possibly be torn apart gets my respect. I mean, isn’t that the point? Don’t we write because we have these scenes in our heads, these worlds and characters that feel the need to fly from our minds and fingertips onto the page, computer screen, whatever, just to be shared with the world in hopes that someone will be entertained in some form or fashion?

I’m perplexed, to say the least. This isn’t to say that one can’t take constructive criticism, but there’s a difference.

I’ve managed to keep the cussing out of this blog, but that ends now, because, well, it’s my website! So here it is: If you’re one of my fellow authors and you receive a piss poor review from someone with nothing better to do in their life besides be an asshole…give them the mental “fuck off” and move on with your day. Keep writing, keep creating, keep doing what you do. This community of writers I’ve been blessed to meet is absolutely awesome, and I’m pretty sure most of us, if not all, support you. *virtual hugs and kisses*

Later!