I can write fatuous posts, too, just like the published writers.
1. I have a limited degree of talent when it comes to writing. Until I achieve perfection (which will likely be when hell freezes over or the cows come home), I won't set any standards of performance for others. I know the difference between criticism and critique.
2. I am not paying for the privilege being here. If don't like a particular blog I just won't click on the link. It's just like TV, if you don't like it, change the channel.
3. I don't have a listing of books published, novels pending, agents waiting in the wings, or any prospects for any of the above. That makes me an amateur which according to one source means: a person who engages in a study, sport, or other activity for pleasure rather than for financial benefit or professional reasons.
4. I am unpretentious. See number 3. I also understand what humility is.
5. I am fortunate to have a full time job where almost 10 out of every hundred Americans who want to work don't have a job. I squeeze this reading and writing of blogs in my spare time. I don't have time for these nitpicky lists of what's right and wrong.
6. I am in awe of everyone who comes here and puts their words, thoughts and feelings out there. If their grammar is poor, they don't understand punctuation, and can't communicate, they are probably doing the best that they can.
7. There are a minority of writers in this space whose political views are different than mine. They have a right to be here and they should be treated with the same courtesy, dignity and respect that I feel I am entitled to when I post.
8. When it comes to talent, I know my own limitations, and I recognize and appreciate the vast majority of you who have more talent than I. I am envious, and only aspire to be as good as you are. I won't build myself up by bringing you down.
9. I have an agenda here at Open Salon. I know you are shocked to hear that. My agenda is to have my writing read. I get paid to write stuff at work. The stuff I write at work is a lot worse than the stuff I write here. Be thankful for that. I know I am.
10. I wish I had more time to read and write than I do.I don't, and do the best that I can. I would respond to comments more frequently when I have the time.
11. There is always someone here whose talent is better than mine. That will never change.
12. If you really want my opinion ask for it. I will gladly give it to you. I won't write a separate post about you personally or you in general excoriating you for your lack of effort or talent.
13. I'm here to have fun. You should be here to have fun, too. If you're not that is unfortunate.
14. I never write with the intention of hurting anyone's feelings. I failed with this post, I perceive.
15. I don't have reason fifteen. Why? Because I always feel you should leave the reader wanting more.
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Comments
Ahhhh, thanks!! I love you too sheepy!!! ;)
**Nodding** I have lots of novels pending, most of them still in my head.
I should sit down sometime and write them out.
Then get published, then, no more blogging, cause I'll be a REAL writer then, or a nose picker.
Either or, I'll be getting paid!! ;D
Tink -- You are what your tags say you are.
Lisa -- I'm humbled by your criticism.
Dave -- I'm glad this resonated with you, but I speak only for myself.
jali -- Thanks for dropping by.
Scanner -- thanks
Myriad -- I was probably sleeping.
bike -- I will.
Matt -- I know all dogs look alike. No offense taken.
this post has been the voice of reason amidst all this nonsense
Hell, they're all perfect.
Looks like a riot broke out in this place last night. Glad I missed it.
Great cliff, or languid sloping sand, cold sea,
Waves: river curving; you, eternal flowers,
Give me content, while I can think of you:
Give me your living breath!
Back to your rampart, Death! "
Harold Monro - 1879-1932
♥
All I can say is writer what you want and damn the torpedoes!
Lezlie
People forget the importance of number four which I guess happens when there is no humility. I am in the same situation (#5) though I confess I have been late for work because of OS more than a few times.
And yes, there is always someone better (and worse) in most pursuits. All we can do is discover our own original voice to the best of our ability.
AHP -- Thanks.
Robin - xoxo
Mission -- I think I understand what Ms. Kelly was trying to say. It wasn't her best work.
Cartouche -- I appreciate your friendship.
fusuna -- Wonderful verse. Thanks for sharing.
Andy -- nothing creative about writing in my day job.
femme forte --thanks.
Bonnie -- thanks.
Linnn -- It is a fair list
patriciak -- It was ok.
greenheron -- Thanks, right back at you.
Trudge -- Ms. Kelly's Blog from yesterday.
Chuck -- Thanks
Bill -- I try not to let this get me down.
OB -woof
Lea -- Raincheck until it's warmer, ok?
mary -- Common sense is a good thing.
Ardee -- you're welcome.
L -- thanks/
(*.........er........meow? Whatever works.....*)
.
Two more things and I'll be on my way.
1) You are someone whose writing I enjoy and respect.
2) I always feel I've hit a home run when something I've written gets a comment by you. (No, that's not a shameless plea for comments from you - just the bare truth.)
Nicely done, this.
Rated, of course.
(speaking as one of the just above illiterate, corrections --by pm, please don't stick me with hot knives in public-- are welcome and help me to learn)
The arts can be corrupted, just as any other business. Painters have to fight uphill against the arts mafia of art school DTF* talentless hacks. Musicians have to work through minefields of treachery and craziness. It goes on and on as every institution of art becomes an institution of cronyism, self promotion and favoritism.
Writing is no different.
Leave it to OE to be the voice of exquisite and unassailable reason.
Zumapick and hugs.
*Daddy's trust fund artists
As I said on Snippy's post:
For me it's real simple, I take criticisms of my writing to heart only when someone is paying me for it. When you get something for free, don't bitch -- or bite the hand that's feeding you -- or casting pearls before you swine -- and above all, never resort to using cliches.
Sorry I am late..
rated with hugs
I think it's more like 1 in 10. Try to be more accurate, please.