May Update - I Was Called "Amateurish" and I Liked it!

Another month, another writing competition - this one where I finally got the punch in the mouth I probably, totally, maybe hate-liked-needed!

I'm not a big "writing circle" person. Meaning, when I write something, I'm not the type to actively seek feedback or shove it in people's faces. I've written for myself and those closest to me, and have thankfully had a natural ability to make sentences that work together.

So, of course, these competitions change that. Lo and behold: Not everyone likes my work all the time.

via GIPHY

I'm still waiting to hear back from my first two entries - one is due to come back on the 25th. However, if my  feedback from the most recentScreenwriting Battle is any indication....

The battle idea is very cool. Not unlike the NYC Midnight one, you are given a prompt and limited time to write something legible. A jury of your peers (fellow participants) then blind judges in a pool system, then the cream of the crop moves on. Plus, it's all done in a buttoned-up 3 weeks.

Unless you suck, then it's only 2!

My story (which you can read here) was, without mincing words, winged by the camera direction I put in there. Every. Single. One of the judges used the exact same phrase: "Leave the directing to the director." My life experience disagrees with that sentiment. The writer is the director, until there's a director. I believe it adds clarity of vision and imagination to a script.

However, I could be completely wrong and, at least here, the proof is undeniable. Pointed criticisms like "amateurish" and "completely confusing" were thrown around, and I ended up at the very bottom of my pool.

I hate losing.

There was some genuinely good feedback as well, some judges very easily sussing out that I'm a young writer who makes young mistakes. My concept and the flow of the story was spot on too - 5/6 were very effusive on those aspects.

I love learning.

Welcome to my half-way bridge.

So, I learn and move on - it's that simple. I'd do that competition again because I do love a good pressure cooker, and I'm always game for coming back stronger the second time.

That's what she...said?