In bigger letters for those in the back:
As a critiquer, your job is not to “make this piece of writing better” but to understand what the writer wants to achieve and help them to achieve it
Applies beyond writing as well.
Also applies to editing. I was recently talking to another writer whose editor (at a publisher) almost destroyed her desire to keep writing. Writers, know the signs of a shitty editor versus one who actually wants to help you achieve your vision, and don’t be afraid to ask for a different one. (Or fire a bad one if you’re indy.)
Off topic but I’m really feeling this quote, not just in the writing/art context, but also just management and critique in general. Making someone feel like a failure to the point where they want to give up and walk away is not helpful in any way. Very very few people will take that as a challenge to do better. Their confidence will just deflate and they will find reasons to start avoid doing the task altogether.
QueerGalaxies 