A Positive Critique

To improve the standard of our prose we need to become better writers. By following easily understandable guidelines, received in the form of a Positive Critique, such changes will occur.

A positive critique is one that politely offers the criticised writer a framework by which they can improve. Aggressive or abrasive comments are generally dismissed as simple obnoxiousness, and may even have a negative impact on the writer. A polite and comprehensive critique however, is usually well received.

When critiquing a piece it is not necessary to know metre, literary or poetic terminology, although that certainly does help. What is important is the tone in which you deliver your comments. If they are made in a harsh or condescending manner they will do more harm than good. Before you begin to actually critique a piece you should look at the age and skill level of the poet. We tend to get better as we get older and have more writing experience behind us. If someone is very young or just beginning to write poetry they may not have the skills to construct a smooth flowing and technically correct poem complete with solid imagery.

Like wise, if a poem is obviously about something very dear or close to the poet don’t fully deconstruct it for them. One example is if a poet writes about a departed family member they are most likely not looking to have it pulled apart and analysed in depth. Make a few gentle suggestions and comment on how it made you feel by all means, but let it go at that.

State what you liked about the poem, and why; as well as what you didn’t like about the poem, and why. Just telling someone something is good or bad is no help whatsoever to them, and will not help them improve. Explain why a particular line caught your eye or made you truly feel something.

Always try to say more positive things about a poem than negative ones. Pointing out where a poem can be improved is all well and good, but it is encouragement that will spur the poet on to greater works. If you find that you cannot really say all that many positive things about a poem explain that it is a start and politely and gently refer them to resources like suture where they may learn more of the craft. Reading a lot of good poetry also helps.

Finally, by providing positive critiques we encourage others to assist us in kind. Out of this mutual exchange of courteous critiques will emerge better writers, a stronger community and real friendships.

(Submitted by RebeccaA, with thanks to darkcrescendo for his assistance.)

We also suggest you read Tips for the Novice by *suture