Input vs. Instinct
I was scrolling through Facebook this past weekend when I saw an aspiring author post this question to a group:
“I gave my book draft to someone, and their feedback was that it should rhyme. Can anyone recommend resources on how to write a rhyming book?”
My immediate thought was, "Wait, you're changing your entire book because of what ONE person said?".
And then I realized that I've done this too. Not this exactly, but I've done some form of this. I think we all have.
Who has felt a little uncertain when first starting out at a new job, taking on a new opportunity, or writing a new book? (Hands up, people!) During those moments, we often reach out for feedback or advice. And when we receive a particularly “decisive” piece of feedback, it can be tempting to jump in and agree. After all, we sought out this person’s advice because they are an expert or we trust them, right?
Here is some of the feedback I have received in the past year:
Your character should be a girl instead of a boy.
You shouldn’t include an elephant in your zoo book. It’s too polarizing.
I prefer Cover Option #1 instead of Cover Option #2.
Your book needs to feel more fun. You should change the ending.
The rhyme on page 16 seems to be missing a syllable. It doesn’t flow as easily as the other pages.