#i'm being cringe on main again just because we feeling a bit salty

[bluebellwren]

I desperately hope they just never reboot Ghosts, even though it's my favorite CoD campaign, just because I'm afraid they're going to connect it directly to Ghost the character like the rabid, foaming at the mouth Ghost stans want, rather than just have it be vaguely inspired by him. He's a bland, uninteresting, static, overrated character and TF Stalker has better lore and a better aesthetic than him, especially when you look at his reboot design, and I'm already sick of everyone thinking that he's Riley's handler when he's not.

[roscvcins]

@misericordiis asked : 🔥🔥🔥🔥 get salty with it - Send me a “ 🔥 “ for an unpopular opinion. (bonus points if you include a topic <3)

The fires have been LIT there are four flames so I'm giving you four opinions oops

1) While the world is a sandbox when it comes to Chinese names, a basic grasp of the language and what kind of names are considered tacky is really necessary to make sure a native speaker (like, unfortunately, myself) doesn't cringe into the sun :') The amount of 如花 adjacent I've seen in my time online is...yeah it's a little. It's something. Naming conventions are different tbh like it might be fine to name an English person Belle Rose or smth but if somebody names their Chinese character "beautiful flower" like you could do it...but it's TACKY I PROMISE. Every time I talk about this I'm like it's like if you named your American character "Lampshade" in English like some things just don't work that way. The WORST case which made me think of this whole paragraph was a billion years ago somebody named their oc a character that DOESN'T EVEN EXIST IN THE TRADITIONAL SENSE like it was a "sound" word, like "ha" or "ding" or "brrr" and I think I blacked out just a bit. Anyway the "hot take" is that it's probably safer not to diy a Chinese OC name without doing research, and also probably safer to google the diy name to make sure it doesn't come up smth crazy (homonyms are also no joke ok) even after doing your research.

2) People should read more non-historical/xianxia/wuxia genres!!! Ok ok I get it read what you WANT but also!!! There are so many good moderns / scifis / horrors just sitting out there waiting like sparkling gems I PROMISE YOU.

3) I personally don't always subscribe to this philosophy (as I say not necessarily as I do, etc. etc.) but I think after being on this hellsite for 10 years the hot take is that in the rpc, sometimes the secret to sustaining a writing and ooc relationship through years and changing interests is to just try to be into what your friends are into. Yeah, I know, be yourself and don't make yourself consume content you don't want to consume - but at the end of the day, I think writing is collaborative, and it's not always going to be About Me. Likewise, it also shouldn't always be About Your Partner. Ideally I think we always hope to strike a balance where we are Both Having Fun with what we're doing together, but I also think that REALISTICALLY it's okay to have a little less fun with the Set Up of fandoms and stuff like that now and again because you like and get joy from and have fun with writing and interacting with the person themselves, regardless of their fandom or their muse. Smth smth sometimes it takes having something in common and smth smth sometimes it will not be your partner making the effort to have something in common with YOU so sometimes if you w a n t to maintain a relationship whether that's IC or OOC in a certain way you gotta try to have something in common with them. Sounds complicated I KNOW.

4) In the ideal world, you SHOULD be able to renegotiate your connections page. Let me preface by saying that this isn't about MY current situation (hi mains and exclusives, I'm twirling my hair and blowing kisses at you, you are all absolutely Iconique and have shaped my writing experience on this site) but just sort of like the thoughts I've built up across the years. For me, before I add mains/exclusives, I consider many aspects. Such as whether our muse portrayals are compatible (usually they are if we're talking about it), how interconnected our development and universe is (again, usually very connected if we're talking about it), and how we match as people and writers. My mains/exclusives are all people I feel like I Really Talk (tm) to, who are dear friends and also roughly on the same page/wavelength as me regarding where we want to take our muses, and whose pace and muse regarding activity is also the same as mine. I think if at any point the arrangement falls out of sync in a drastic way, we should be able to talk about it and see if our goals still align, because people grow and change and so I'm sure muses and plots kind of morph too, and if they grow in different directions and there's nothing we can really do about it, then like...we need to be able to reassess our situation analytically and maturely. But yeah - I just think that it shouldn't hurt a friendship if your WRITING goals no longer align, you know?

[ladyhindsight]

1/3 Hello it’s me again! I couldn’t agree more with what you said about Clare’s books having a dishonest narrative. My main criticism is that she does the opposite of show don’t tell. I finally finished QoAaD and I was wondering which are her best and worst books in your opinion. I’d expect that she’d get better over time, but I don’t think that’s always the case. I thought TID was better than the first TMI, but the second TMI had better character development.

2/3 I hated LM but I genuinely enjoyed LoS. QoAaD was a mess and an occasional cringe fest, but I was pleasantly surprised with how much the characters communicated with each other throughout the whole trilogy (at least when you compare it to the others). The malec trilogy doesn’t fit with their story from TMI, but the first book was fun and sweet while the second has some of her worst writing. TLH is her more recent work and I’m not impressed.

3/3 I’m not into the romance, some characterization is inconsistent with what we know from the short stories, and her idea of tension is having 99% of the conversations end with an interruption. As for the short stories, they are co-written so it’s hard to tell when it’s her fault, but TBC was okay, most of TFSA read like bad fanfiction, and GOTSM was interesting if a bit cringe sometimes. That's my subjective opinion anyway, so I'm curious to hear your thoughts.

Hi hello! Sorry it took a while to answer. 🥴

What Clare shows is somehow the exact opposite to what she tells on many occasions. Jace’s whole character and Clary to some extent are the most glaring examples of them all. I think Clockwork Angel was a pretty good start for the series, at least in the beginning. TID was definitely better with how Clare wrote her side characters, although a flaw reminiscent to TMI still was that everything needed to happen to the same two or three people always and everyone was just there. But I do think the side character were definitely more engaged in the plot and had meaning to be present.

I’ve written about TID before, here’s some of them if you’re interested! [ x ] & [ x ]

As to TDA, I definitely agree that Lord of Shadows was the best one of the three, and I enjoyed it far more than the other installments. Lady Midnight was nothing short of infuriating and Queen of Air and Darkness was just a mess. Clare has definitely gotten better as an author if compared to City of Bones which I still call the worst composed and written book I’ve read. Everything is off technically and with the implementation, and the book as a whole just checks off every point on what not to do. So though she has improved her writing, I think it’s stagnated to a point from which it’s been the same since.

Favorite at the moment: The Red Scrolls of Magic, because I like reading about Alec. He was overshadowed by everything else going on in TMI that his journey to a well-rounded character has been ridiculously long and contradictory. (I haven’t began reading The Lost Book of the White because of this one unfinished thesis…) The story shows that Alec (along with Maia and Lily) is just the person to become part of the bridge between the Nephilim and the Downworlders. A lot about Alec has been about Jace, so it’s nice for him to have something of his own. Although I am incredibly salty that it wasn’t Alec’s own initiation to become the Consul rather than Jace being the one to nominate him. Begone, Jace. Let Alec shine for once without you having anything to do with it. Because did the Nephilim vote for Alec because of Alec or did they vote because Jace nominated him? I know it’s not the latter but yet…

I haven’t read TLH yet but I do have them in my possession in some form or another… 👀

Despite everything, I think TDA trilogy is still the one I’ve enjoyed the most so far though there is much of it that I don’t like. The world-building is in the point where the Shadow World feels far larger and open and filled with things than it ever was, and how I imagine it should’ve been long before this trilogy to come by. TBC was okay too, though there were stories I wasn’t as interested as some others, but it was a light and fun read nonetheless. TFSA and GOTSM (partly) are on my reading list also (and in possession in some form or another… 👀) but I’ll have to find time to get into them properly.

[nightglider124]

I am a new writer and I'm really shy. I have a full written story sitting in my drafts. Any advice?

Hello, new friend and welcome to the world of writing. Would you like a cup of tea?

I’m going to bullet point what I can think of as the best and kinda most beneficial advice, I can give to you.

Write for you. This is something a lot of writers tend to forget as they get a bit more popular and get a few more followers etc. But, please, do not allow yourself to be swayed by others. Do not let anyone dictate how you write your stories. It’s nice to have readers and to get recognition but do not bend to others. You write stories how you want to write them. That is key. Always, always remember that one. For your own benefit, moreso.

Don’t force yourself to write things. This is similar to the above but what I mean is, if you’ve promised 3 written things, don’t force it. There will come times when you will get serious writers block and it is not fun. It’s frustrating and you go through a bunch of lame emotions because of this mental block on the creative side of your brain. Don’t worry. All writers get this and it happens a hell of a lot more than people think it does. You could be midsentence and get writers block. But, there are hundreds and hundreds of writers out there that you can vent to and who understand your pain.

Writers block is the evil incarnate. (Just to really emphasize that bullshit thing that happens now and again.)

When you post a story, you might not get reviews immediately; especially if you are writing for a fandom that isn’t that popular or as active anymore. Like, the fans would have dwindled a little. Fanbases aren’t always as huge as others. The thing to remember though is that reviews do not make the story. They are great to receive, a smile lights up my face when I get an email saying I’ve got a new review. There’s no denying that. But, they are not everything. So, don’t be disheartened if you aren’t immediately getting flooded with reviews and comments. It does not mean you are a bad writer or anything akin to that; it’s purely because reviews aren’t always given which is a shame but you gotta make do, ya know? It’s frustrating to have people reading your story and not actually comment about it but that is, unfortunately just how it is sometimes. But, main thing to remember, it doesn’t mean a thing so don’t overanalyse not getting a string of reviews.

Once you have a respectable band of followers and readers, don’t lose your head. There are many writers out there, whether they mean to or not, that get to a stage where they feel, ‘accomplished’ and ‘superior’ to others. Avoid this at all costs. It makes a shitty person. If you’re like on your game and on a roll, then by all means, revel in that. Be happy. However, don’t shun new writers or don’t be mean to new writers or anything like that because it does happen. People do do this kinda thing and it’s just not very nice. Always respect fellow authors. No one is better or worse than anyone else. Everyone has different styles and different methods in what they write. It’s all about the respect in this game. I guess, just never be a douche for no reason, ya know?

Adding onto that one, after reaching a stage where you feel pretty in there with writing where you feel able to give advice and like you know a thing or two, help other authors out. It can be very hard to start writing. You’re effectively working hard on something only for it to be essentially judged by others. So, always be nice to other authors. Help them out. Offer praise. Offer criticism. Offer advice. Offer tips. Anything to help them improve themselves, get on in there. The smallest compliment or comment can make an author’s day. So, just kinda be there for other authors. Gotta have each other’s backs. <3

Do not be afraid to put yourself out there for the world to see. You’re creative; you want to write and be a storyteller. Do not let anyone stop you from doing that. Take that leap of faith and post your stories because really, when you think about it rationally, what is the worst that can happen? Not a lot. It’s always worth a try, just to see how it feels, you know? I suggest always at least posting something. You don’t have to go and be a full fledged, stick to a schedule writer but do at least have a go. If you have that inside of you, the desire to write and create, don’t let it be quenched without really going for it first. Don’t be afraid. There are nice people out there and we do not bite, nor are we malicious about new writers. Promise.

Off the back of that, there are some downers in writing. Salty people and haters are a thing. These pathetic people do exist and can be disheartening. They can make you feel crappy but you’ve just gotta pick yourself and think, “Fuck you. I don’t even know you so I’m not gonna let your rude words get to me.”. There are some people who will complain because a story isn’t being written the way they think it should be or they see fit. There are some who will leave hate because they don’t agree with your romantic pairing or something. There are some who will leave hate because they are jealous of your abilities, plain and simple. There are some who are oh-so sure they can do it better than you. You’ve got to take these numpties with a pinch of salt. It’s what makes positive comments and reviews so much sweeter when you get them through. These people are vermin and purely strive to make you feel bad about yourself because they have nothing better to do. So, if you get those, just shrug them off and laugh, because they’re not worth stressing over.

Recap; nasty comments and reviews mean nothing. They do not change anything. Don’t let them get to you; as hard as it can be. You gotta keep believing in your skills and realise, “Actually, I’m a badass writer so screw you haters.” And that is that.

Be open to criticism. Hate is not to be confused with criticism. It will serve you well to be open to criticism. Having someone point out your flaws will help you in the long run. Sometimes, it might come across like you’re being attacked or something but honestly, they’re not trying to do that. People will comment with things you could possibly do better. Doesn’t necessarily mean they’re right but they’re always something to consider. If you aren’t happy with their criticism, then politely thank them but don’t change yourself. Just be aware and be open to criticism because some people will give it without even being asked. But, that’s just people’s way of trying to be helpful sometimes.

Engage with your readers. Some of the nicest people end up being your story readers. There are so many lovely humans out there who take the time to review and gush over how your story connected with them. These gems are not to be ignored. Remember, it’s give and take. If you post something and there are people responding, especially with comments, then they deserve a private message or at least a thank you somewhere along the lines. It’s so nice to interact with your readers because some of them are so damn into your stories and it’s so heart-warming to see. Always remember the good’uns. They’re special ones.

Talk with other people in your fandom. Make some friends; so easy to do once you’re contributing to the fandom and chatting about a mutual love of it. I know you’ve mentioned you’re shy and that’s okay. Just remember, it’s through a screen and nothing can physically harm you from taking that jump and getting your work out there. You’ll be okay. But, making some internet pals really helps not only your exposure but also your confidence. I personally love my little circle of mutuals and friends on here because they’re so damn supportive and it’s so comforting to know they have your back. Writers really tend to rally around other writer friends. When you post, they’re just so good and helpful. They guide you in your strengths and weakness’ and they reblog and kinda get the word out there for you. It’s so lovely to have people like that and you honestly, will make internet pals in no time at all. All you’ve gotta do is step out of that comfort zone a teeny bit at a time and you’ll be alright.

Take some time to read through old work of some of your favourite authors or some kinda high up there authors within your fandom. Do this so you can see that even the best have had to work hard to get to where they are now. Practice is key and dedication to writing is your priority. This helps to understand that it isn’t instant; people reading and loving your pieces of writing. It does take time but its a fun journey to get there. Jheez, I can still remember my very first written piece. It’s actually still on my deviant art account and it was a Bakugan oneshot and it is atrocious like it makes me cringe so much. But, you know what? I keep it there to remind myself of how far I’ve come since then and how much my skills have improved. Always know your worth and never sell yourself short. That is important.

Lastly… Have fun. Writing is a fun medium; a great hobby that really lets your explore your creativity and imagination. Don’t get swept up into this “writing for likes or favourites or reviews” mind-set. That’s not what it is about. You’ve got to write because you love to write. If there’s no heart and no soul in your stories, then what’s the point? Also, have fun because at the end of the day, it’s something to do as a hobby or in your free time to relax. Fanfiction for example, it’s not a job like we do not get paid to write chapters on the clock so never stress; go at your own pace and write for yourself. Always.

Hope this mega long response helps. Happy writing and don’t be afraid. Be brave! <3