I live with a writer, a statement that will send chills down the spine of other such people who have to endure the trials and tribulations of being a writers mate. We should have a support group with buddies who can advise you when all appears to be lost ( Similar to the AA way of doing things).
Picture the scene :
Writer suggesting to mate : Can you read this and give me an honest opinion.
Mate : Sure
Mate reads the material in silence.
Mate : That’s very good
Writer : You didn’t really like it then
Mate : Huh ?
Writer : Well you didn’t laugh and its supposed to be funny.
Mate : It is very funny
Writer : Why didn’t you laugh then.
Mate: I don’t normally laugh out loud at stuff I read, it makes me seem mad.
Writer : So its not that funny then.
Mate : Is this a test ? I thought you wanted my honest opinion.Its funny.
Writer : But not laugh out loud funny.
Mate : No
Writer : I won’t finish it then.
Mate : Why not ?
Writer : Cause you don’t like it
Mate ; Now I’m really confused, where did I say I didn’t like it.
Writer : I just know you don’t.
Mate : I’m not reading anymore of your material ever again. Leave me alone , this is a form of torture.
Writer : All I wanted was an honest opinion.
They go separate ways in the house.
This is not an unusual occurance in a house where a writer is in residence. And yet the writer will keep coming back looking for your opinion. I am afraid to say there is no way out unless you have for all your relationship either been blind or illiterate. You must answer and you must be honest. It really helps if your partner can actually write otherwise all that lying can get quite tedious. Not that I have that problem thank god.
I must admit that critiquing for my wife makes me feel like Dustin Hoffman in that scene from marathon man. You know the one the one where he’s be asked if its safe and he doesn’t know what hes been asked about.
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=dG5Qk-jB0D4
More to follow……
