05-06-2012, 03:01 PM
The primary, as well as indispensable "rule" for valid poetry critique is to (as it is stated here) critique the poem and not the writer. I offer the following as ways I make that distinction.
I try and make two distinctions when critiquing: what is objectively problematic with the poem, and what I think might be improved stylistically, which I note is purely personal. I try to stay away from commenting on the content in terms of agreeing with or disagreeing with it (of course sometimes I can't resists, but I will generally note that it has nothing to do with the critique). I acknowledge when I am aware of having a bias in a certain area (I do not consider that one should strive towards good grammar usage as a bias).
Finally, if I cannot read something without taking it personally, or becoming angry, then I should probably not offer a critique.
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I don't necessarily agree with all of the posted rules, however, I do try and follow them as that to me is an unspoken agreement for using any site. As far as I am concerned to do otherwise is inherently dishonest, not to mention childish and repulsive.
Dale
I try and make two distinctions when critiquing: what is objectively problematic with the poem, and what I think might be improved stylistically, which I note is purely personal. I try to stay away from commenting on the content in terms of agreeing with or disagreeing with it (of course sometimes I can't resists, but I will generally note that it has nothing to do with the critique). I acknowledge when I am aware of having a bias in a certain area (I do not consider that one should strive towards good grammar usage as a bias).
Finally, if I cannot read something without taking it personally, or becoming angry, then I should probably not offer a critique.
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I don't necessarily agree with all of the posted rules, however, I do try and follow them as that to me is an unspoken agreement for using any site. As far as I am concerned to do otherwise is inherently dishonest, not to mention childish and repulsive.
Dale
How long after picking up the brush, the first masterpiece?
The goal is not to obfuscate that which is clear, but make clear that which isn't.
The goal is not to obfuscate that which is clear, but make clear that which isn't.