Which was somebody talking about how not leaving concrit unless it’s asked for is now the standard. Why does that have anythjng to do with fanfic being free? I tried to explain that people might not want their unpaid labor being criticized by random people and just respect their wishes. Blocked.

You didn’t use the word “hate” but are you so tone deaf that you don’t realize that giving unsolicited concrit is not okay? Friendly is a stretch. Times change. I’m actually not new to fandom, it just seems like you’re not open to evolving.

Because don’t hate on somebody who is doing something for free. Don’t criticize somebody who is not asking for help. “Here’s somebody who could use some help” is so patronizing. Do you really not see that?

And this is where we come around full circle about fanfic being free. Why is it on the writer to say they don’t want concrit? You’re getting this thing, enjoy it, or not, but don’t criticize unless it’s asked for. It’s so simple.

If they don’t ask for it just don’t give it. It’s not magical.

If they want it.

Because for some people posting their writing is making them extremely vulnerable. If it’s too painful for you to read, just don’t. They might be doing it just to join a community or stretch their wings. You’re sacrificing nothing by not criticizing somebody’s work when they don’t want it.

There’s nothing they can do about it, but they are making money off of it. Using the Amazon example: whether it’s a book or a cat toy it’s fair to say “I didn’t like this and here’s why” so that other people might reconsider buying it. Fanfic is different in that it’s free.

You can just opt not to read it. Criticism is unnecessary to protect the consumer, so unless the writer wants it why do it? Especially if it makes somebody stop writing or engaging with fandom in general. I’d rather people feel safe sharing, than chasing them away with unwanted criticism.

I think the point is that a lot of people are just putting stuff out there. They are doing it without compensation and they don’t necessarily care about honing their craft and that should be ok. If I don’t know one way or the other I just ask if they want concrit and then we can start a narrative.

I was comparing it to like a review on Amazon of a product you buy. Not fanfic reviews.

People are pointing out that because it’s free, it’s not a product for you to review. So, if the writer asks that readers not provide concrit, the least you can do is respect that wish. But some welcome and are grateful for it. It’s a read the room situation IMO.

Oh I’m so glad they can be a comfort! Also, love, love, love A Year and a Day. I don’t know if this will be your first read so I won’t spoil- but I think I can say eeek the pocket familiars 😀

Yep, I know some amazing parents, I just don’t want to be one. It’s a wonderful compliment when someone tells me I’d be a good mom, without pressure. But when strangers come in and render judgment I’m just like…why? Yes I’ve been married for a long time, no kids, and that affects you not at all

Oh, I do this as a nervous tick! Like when I’m in a waiting room and I rarely remember where I was going with it. Sometimes I’m so intrigued I turn it into something substantial but I always wonder about my original plan, haha!