Hi,
I'm not sure how these things work - forums and the like - or what the etiquette is. I have posted an extract from a long on worked novel. I guess I'm looking for criticism and really to ask, would you want to know what happens next?
It feels strange to put ones words out into a public forum, but I guess that is what one must do.
Thanks you for your time.
A
Alex, putting your words out there is liking handing someone an axe and then putting your head on a chopping block! It's hard, but it's the whole point if you intend to publish. You're a writer - that's who you are, not what you do, especially as a writer of fiction, and you're offering up a huge part of what makes you you. Criticism therefore will hurt more than it should. The reader isn't seeing you there at all; they're looking only at what's on the page, depersonalised, unattached.
I've had a look at your piece and made what I hope are constructive suggestions - it may look a lot, but don't be put off! I've had to put into words what a proof-reader or editor would do with a few symbols.
As Khai says, except the automated emails are only for answers to posts in this Q&A section.
You'll need to keep checking on your writing excerpt to see any comments. The most recent three posts are immediately visible, then gradually work their way down the list/pages as others post. Some people continually edit their work & post it back so it ends up on top again, but personally if someone does that frequently I tend to stop reading it.
Sorry, that should have read: "I found it is useful to include my critique questions at the top or end of the extract itself."