New to giving critique? Please read these tips.

[ellajam]

I came across this today, a good read for all of us learning to critique.

Hi Pound, I understand. We all start somewhere with critique. Even if it is new to you, it's worth stepping out and risking it. You are still a reader and any feedback even if the author disagrees with your conclusions will be helpful to them. I think as long as your goal is to help the author improve the poem than you're on solid ground. Yes, people's feelings can get hurt, but sometimes that has little to do with your comments and more on how invested the writer is in the content. Again, for me it's all around intent. If the focus is the poem than the comments are inbound even if they aren't complimentary. It's all about pushing one another to produce the best work we can. Over time most writers don't take it as personally and mostly filter the critique. They agree, disagree, think about it, and ultimately write the poem they want to write--at least I do. I'm personally thankful for anyone that takes the time to read and comment even if they hate the work.

The only way you get better is to do, but move at a pace you're comfortable with. I appreciate the feedback you've given so far, and would encourage you to continue to stretch yourself.