Books Quote by Stephen King
![“Many writing texts caution against asking friends to read your stuff, suggesting you're not apt to get a very unbiased opinion[.] ... It's unfair, according to this view, to put a pal in such a position. What happens if he/she feels he/she has to say, "I'm sorry, good buddy, you've written some…” quote by Stephen King](https://sms4smile.com/quotes/img-quotes/87c/stephen-king-13_books_many-writing-texts-caution-against-askin_1682638.jpg)
““Many writing texts caution against asking friends to read your stuff, suggesting you're not apt to get a very unbiased opinion[.] ... It's unfair, according to this view, to put a pal in such a position. What happens if he/she feels he/she has to say, "I'm sorry, good buddy, you've written some great yarns in the past but this one sucks like a vacuum cleaner"? The idea has some validity, but I don't think an unbiased opinion is exactly what I'm looking for. And I believe that most people smart enough to read a novel are also tactful enough to find a gentler mode of expression than "This sucks." (Although most of us know that "I think this has a few problems" actually means "This sucks," don't we?)””
About This Quote
Source Interview: Stephen King on Writing, 2000
Friends may lack objectivity, but they can give gentle, constructive feedback without harshness.
In simple terms: Friends can give honest but kind feedback.
Key Takeaway
Seek candid yet kind critique.
Themes
writing
feedback
friendship
Mood
reflective
thoughtful
Type
advice
literary
When to use this quote
- novel drafting
- peer review
- creative workshops
Key Concepts
communication
social dynamics
Questions to Reflect On
- How to balance honesty and kindness in critique?
- When is a friend’s opinion most valuable?
A Different Perspective
Friends may still be biased or overly gentle, limiting honesty.
