This rings so very true.
I also didn't like the tone of the document very much; this isn't a
guide so much as a long complaint file with information attached.
Useful info, yes, but it's wrapped in a sour lemon of a document that
serves to deliver a message of, "If you do this, you suck," rather
than an educational or helpful message like, "These tips will improve
your writing dramatically."
I suggest reformatting the document thusly:
1. Three Easy Things That Will Make You Instantly Better
2. Three More Things You Can Practice To Get Even Better
3. The Rest Of The Info (sorted by category: grammatical, cultural,
etc.)
By focusing on the three easiest things a fanfic writer can do to (a)
get read and (b) gain the respect of his or her peers, you're giving
them something that will show results almost instantly. You're also
encouraging them to write more, or at least edit what they have. I'd
start by encouraging them to try the tips on their next story, and to
start that story "right now."
If the document is going to be effective for writers, and not just
comfort frustrated readers, it has to be an invitation. Sell them on
the easy improvements, then get them to practice on the more complex
stuff. Then they can dig deep into the exhaustive knowledge base
you've developed.
"Your wallet gains $0.02!"
~Matt
On Sep 11, 2007, at 10:30 AM, Karsten Sethre wrote:
> Sadly, those that need to read it most, if they see it at all, will
> likely take one glance, think "TL;DR" and continue writing wince-
> worthy
> stories. Then again, I work tech support, so I'm a bit cynical
> regarding
> people's average intelligence.
>
>
> --
> Karsten "Balorn" Sethre
>
> ---
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