I didn't believe you did have me in mind--definitely not a chewy prose stylist here. I respond to the accessibility argument because of criticism I've received over the years concerning what some people see as my overly complicated plots. I think part of the issue is the fact that I was trying to meld several genres--SF, espionage, mystery--and that each genre carries with it the baggage of different reader expectations, all of which I apparently didn't meet. I don't know if it would have been possible for me to meet them all--if I had it to do all over again, I would have narrowed/refocused the story.
In a way, it's reassuring that other writers are in the same boat--misery loves company, after all. But it can be depressing, because you love your stories and wants to see them succeed in the world. But they don't, both for reasons you have discussed and others. I agree wholeheartedly that story trumps all, including good writing, sparkling characters, and all sorts of unique approaches. This can be discouraging because the knack for formulating a tale that appeals to broader audiences is a gift more than an acquisition.
And I'm typing this during lunch while talking on the phone, so I hope it makes sense.
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branchandroot
no subject
Date: 2004-08-03 09:27 am (UTC)In a way, it's reassuring that other writers are in the same boat--misery loves company, after all. But it can be depressing, because you love your stories and wants to see them succeed in the world. But they don't, both for reasons you have discussed and others. I agree wholeheartedly that story trumps all, including good writing, sparkling characters, and all sorts of unique approaches. This can be discouraging because the knack for formulating a tale that appeals to broader audiences is a gift more than an acquisition.
And I'm typing this during lunch while talking on the phone, so I hope it makes sense.