Contest Feedback Glossary

Missy Tippens here. I decided it would be fun to look back at comments I’ve had from contest judges, editors and agents and put them in some sort of glossary that might help other writers—especially those who may have never sent their work out into the world yet. So, without further ado, here are terms that I’ve seen over the years, along with MY interpretation of what they mean. Again, this is purely my speculation! And it’s in relation to my submissions.

“Cardboard characters.” I think what this means is that I didn’t go deep enough with the characters. I probably didn’t explore their backstory well enough before I started writing. Also, it may indicate they’re a little too stereotypical, or clichéd. Not different enough. And the way to make them different enough is to give them a past, to examine how it has affected them in the present, and to show how they will respond to the problems facing them in the present. Also, it may mean I didn’t let go with the emotion of the story. And I totally understand that. I’ve judged contest entries where everything felt superficial and boring. The characters didn’t seem invested in the story, and neither was I. So give your characters a past, and don’t hold back on emotion in your story.

“Didn’t sparkle.” Okay, this one kills me. Nearly broke my heart when I got the rejection that said this. And I still don’t know for sure what the comment meant. But I have a feeling it has something to do with the story being fresh, with a new twist on the same old plot. Or maybe the characters didn’t stand out. Or maybe the writing wasn’t rich enough. Oh well. I’m still at a loss on this one from so many years ago!

“What’s the point?” This one just cracked me up! I loved it. Because it’s wonderful to have someone tell you that. Seriously. Because then you know the moment you lost your reader—not a good thing! So it’s something that can be fixed. Obviously, the scene wasn’t working. It probably had no real purpose for being there. All scenes need a purpose! Preferably a couple of purposes. So if you’re writing something, and a reader can’t figure out the point, then there probably isn’t a legitimate one. Consider cutting it out.

“I suggest you buy such and such how-to book.” Okay, when more than one judge suggests a basic writing how-to book, then maybe it’s time to take an online writing class or to consider reviewing the basics. Now, just one judge saying this shouldn’t throw you. It may just be that judge’s standard judging procedure to suggest good books. But if you get this from several, it may be time to look into some beginning writer training or training on the particular topic mentioned.

“Too convenient a plot device.” Most likely, this means you’ve been lazy or careless. (Yes, I’m talking to myself here, too.) Did you forget to set something up that’s supposed to happen later? Of course, maybe some plot idea came to you later in the book—just appeared out of thin air. Well, cool! But then you have to go back and make sure it’s set up well and work it in so it makes perfect sense when it happens. You can’t have some coincidence solve all your hero’s problems. Or you can’t have some new character pop up in the book who shows the heroine the way she should go or who (even worse!) saves the day himself. No, don’t do something that’s going to make your reader go, “Oh, puleeeze!”

“Add more introspection.” This is a problem I've had recently. And if you've seen the comment, it could mean you're caught up in the moment (in the action or dialogue) and have forgotten to put in the character’s thoughts and feelings. Or maybe you're still basically on a first draft and haven't yet added the needed layering. Either way, you need the action, but you also need the reaction. What’s going on in the hero’s head as he’s talking? How does he feel? Does he really mean what he’s saying? Or is there different dialogue going on in his head (subtext) while he talks? The reader doesn’t want just a play by play. She wants to know how everyone feels about what’s going on! So give it to her. It’s a great way to work in backstory as well if it’s the appropriate time. Just remember, “A little dab’ll do ya.” Don’t have the character think for ten minutes straight! Work it into the action and dialogue in snippets (unless you’ve purposely worked in a time for reflection).

“So what?” This isn’t meant to be mean. This is an honest reaction to a point in the story that simply means, “I don’t care right now. Make me care.” It means your character may not be sympathetic enough. The reader isn’t invested. So look back at the beginning and try to make your characters lovable. And even if one isn’t really lovable yet, at least make the reader be pulling for him or her to grow and change. Think about the characters you remember most from your favorite books. What made you love that character? Was he funny and clever? Was she a victim and you hoped she found justice? Was he fun and flirty? Was she generous? Was he a powerful man but very lonely? Was he in danger but risked his life to help someone else? Look at heroic qualities and see if your characters have them. If not, fix it!

Well, I could probably think of a million more. But I hope this short list helps you look at contest judge/editor/agent feedback in a different light. So, what about you? What comments have you gotten, and what’s your take on what it means?

P.S. Who else here is old enough to remember where “A little dab’ll do ya” came from? :)

Missy--who's latest book, His Forever Love, is about to release on June 1!