tHeArt of Disagreement

I know it and You know it: 

It is so very difficult to give criticism in such a way that it can be well received!

Online, Prosers are at a particular disadvantage in that they cannot read all those helpful nonverbal cues of conversation—tone of voice, gesture, facial expression... Wording is everything! Intent can become misconstrued entirely unintentionally, even with great care and good will. On any given day, we interpret things very differently, depending on a wide variety of interdependent factors.

For this reason I refrain from making unsolicited comments that might be deemed “confrontational.” If tagged, private messaged, or emailed by another Proser, though, I consider this as receptivity for a more critical analysis and discussion...I then do my best to take my time to study the post, and weigh my reflections judiciously so as to provide what I do believe is desired candid feedback. This is time consuming, but very enjoyable, and I hope that my observations are useful to the author! 

I am confident that it is entirely possible to discuss a composition with reasonable objectivity; and to even politely debate subjective differences of opinion. Why not?! It is an intelligent activity that goes hand-in-hand with any creative work—Effective self-expression comes from careful consideration of ideas from as many perspectives as possible. In full disclosure, I try very hard to respond to every tag; however, when I am unable to routinely check into Prose, I do occasionally overlook some requests… I have noted two such omissions, which I sincerely regret! There is nothing personal here, just the unrelenting course of Life, which I am certain that in the end everyone understands and forgives.

Indeed, a willingness in our writers-circle to break the barrier of timidity-to-critique (so often found lacking within our day-to-day interactions) is Key!!! I believe, that this exchange unlocks the very HEART of Prose.com