I’ve never been a very opinionated person. It’s hard for me to point out the negative in something, especially if that something is someone else’s pride and joy. If I read a book that I end up not liking, I’m the one saying, “It was a great story, even though the writing wasn’t my style.” I never felt it fair to critique someone’s writing when they had worked so hard on it.
Even with music and movies, I’m not a fan of critique. (Don’t get me wrong, I love reading reviews/critiques; I just can’t dish them out.) Just recently, I bought Ingrid Michaelson’s new album, and it has taken me a while to warm up to it. While the songs are catchy, they’re very different from her first albums. I adore Ingrid Michaelson (I even follow her on twitter), and she has an amazing voice, but I’d be lying if I said I wasn’t disappointed at first listen. However, after a while, I’m okay with it. I realize that artists change, and I still adore her voice.
I always feel sort of bad for artists/actors/musicians/writers. Every time they complete something, it goes through a review process. Even if the majority loves it, there will always be someone “hating” it. I can’t imagine what they go through, having to deal with that on a regular basis. I suppose it just comes with the territory.
Even though I despise giving negative feedback, I’m considering writing reviews every once in a while on this blog. While I’ll mostly review/suggest things I love, I know I’ll run across things I’m not so fond of. I’m just trying to figure out how to deal with those without being incredibly hurtful.
What do you think about reviews?
{ 2 comments… read them below or add one }
Isn’t there a saying that goes something like “You know you’ve really made it when you start receiving hate mail?”
I think there’s a difference between a constructive review that points out things that could have been better and just outright bashing something. Some people hate things without being able to articulate why, and that’s hurtful. But being able to offer constructive criticism can help the creator improve their craft. Maybe if you think of it that way, it will be a little easier
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I think that reviews can be a good thing so long as the person reviewing offers some constructive criticism. What really irritates me the most are iTunes reviews. You get people on there who have nothing better to do than bad mouth an artist. The reviewer will say the music is awful and offer no reason at all. If there is one thing I hate it’s a pointless review. The purpose of reviews are to offer guidance for others looking into whatever is being reviewed.
Sorry to rant like that. I just happened to see some stupid review on iTunes the other day and it bugged me. Hopefully I’m not the only one that feels that way though!