I love reader feedback! In my short time here on the staff of The Polytechnic I have received feedback concerning two of my stories. The first of which was a notebook, just like this one, focusing on religion. The second a concert review for moe., which played at the Field House on Halloween.
Most of the responses I have received, including a letter to the editor you can find in this issue of The Poly, have been somewhat negative. To some this may seem like something which should discourage me and make me question myself as a writer. However, a reader’s response to any article I write is more than appreciated and well received. If anything, I enjoy reading about what my readers think, whether it be positive or negative.
Getting feedback on my stories gives me the satisfaction of knowing that my work is being read, whether it is favorable or not to those reading it. That, as a writer, is one of the greatest feelings, and one of some accomplishment.
As a note to all my readers though, I would like to point out the fact that I write mainly for the Features section. This, in contrast to writing for news, allows for more liberal usage of opinion and bias. Some readers of my review of moe. did not think that the section I write for gives me just cause to give the concert a poor review, when in fact it gives me every right to do so. As for articles such as this, I am granted an opportunity to be completely opinionated, hence the idea of an editorial.
Now in no way do I mean to come off as trying to belittle those who feel strongly opposed to the opinions expressed in my stories. Just as I am entitled to my opinion, my readers reserve the same right, whether they agree or disagree with my viewpoint. I enjoy reading about how you as a reader see things from a different angle, as well as those who agree with my thoughts.
In short I would just like to encourage readers to take a more active effort in contacting staff members, including myself, if you would like your opinions heard. Although submitting a letter to the editor is a wonderful approach, sometimes it is not the most practical. For anything else, e-mail can be sent to anyone on staff via the addresses provided in our staff box.
In closing, I would like to thank all the people who have sent me feedback on my stories, even the moe. fan’s e-mail which claimed that I “have no soul” was welcomed and appreciated. So keep reading, and never hesitate to share your opinions.
