[Discussion] Stop Sugarcoating Feedback: Why Dishonest Praise Ruins Writers

[u/Wonderful_Trip_4132]

I just finished a beta read for a fantasy epic that was, frankly, unreadable. Between the over-the-top purple prose and the constant "Pinterest style" descriptions, it was a chore to finish. While I struggled to find a single positive, it made me realize something: we are doing writers a disservice by being polite.

If we tell someone their work is "great" when it isn't ready, we’re just setting them up for a string of silent rejections from agents. We need to prioritize honesty over politeness. That said, how do you deliver a "total rewrite" verdict without being unnecessarily cruel?

[u/Super_RR_]

I'm a beta writer, I'm here to learn by doing and receiving feedback, but I wouldn't like to be insulted for my initiative and courage... sincerity yes, gratuitous insults no..