Deflecting an Awkward Situation

If someone asks to read my stuff I gladly provide them with some of my stories or poems. But first I tell them I will never ask them if they liked the work or even if they read it. Why? Because it avoids embarrassment. There is nothing more awkward, for both parties, than having to tell an author you didn’t like their story or poem or novel.

So I get that issue out of the way right from the get go. Read my stuff. I hope you like it, but if you don’t I will never put you in the position of having to say so to my face.

Here’s the thing: Just because you are friends with someone does not necessarily mean you are going to like their writing. Same goes for your relatives, your spouse, your co-workers, your clients, and your neighbors. All of these people can love, adore, and respect you, and still hate your work. Or be indifferent to it. Or be put to sleep by it.

There’s nothing wrong with that.