Mixture of Emotions

This week has been a roller coaster of emotions. The attacks back in England brought sadness and some measure of anger. Seriously, why are we busy killing each other when we've got so many problems plaguing the human race?


The usual negativity from the haters to the latest story post was slightly depressing. Then again, it was nothing new and as long as I know I'm doing right, I'm tossing them on the pile of trolls. More on it later.

Work is hectic but going well thus far. And ideas are still surfacing faster than I can deal with them lol. Also enjoying a friend's new stories along with some sweeties. More specifically, a glutinous rice and lotus paste dumpling and a Beard Papa custard puff  :D Yums!

And now for some updates on two issues: Destroying Fantasies Part 1 and the conclusion of The Story Of a Button. Destroying Fantasies Part 1 was removed by the site admins because the author of the original story complained and didn't like me "screwing with the characters".


I respect the site admin's decision though frankly, if the case was pursued legally, I am on sound ground. For more on the Destroying Fantasies saga, read this. Those interested in the story, I will post it on a blog site soon, so watch this space.


As for the challenge to write the conclusion to TSOAB, I have to admit the trolls really lived up to expectations. All the bellyaching about loopholes and how the story can only have one ending ~ eyeroll ~ maybe it's my bad because I should have said this challenge is not for the fainthearted or trolls lacking the requisite creativity to see their way round the "loopholes", "dead end" and "vague details" to a conclusion. And frankly my dear trolls... (fill in the blanks, hint: think Rhett Butler) LOL Have fun people!

Response to comments on Pieces of a Marriage

Thank you to readers and friends who left constructive criticism and suggestions. As said, I'm open to comments that help me become a better writer. I'm, however, not receptive to abuse. If trolls are using the comments section to vent, then I feel bad for them. Seriously, there's a big world out there, plenty of other hobbies available. The 1* bombers - well, you're spending your time (and indirectly) your money on an agenda that gets you nowhere and exposes your IP address. And basically, I don't respond to anonymous posts/comments. If you have something to say that's worth someone responding, I'm assuming you'll put your name on it or send it via email with your email address.

In any case, my message to readers leaving feedback, please don't do the following:

1) Attack other readers and writers in comments. It's not healthy or respectful. I respect the fact that every reader is entitled to their own opinion, so please respect the opinions of others.

2) Don't leave comments that reflect the fact that you haven't read the piece that you're commenting on. I know my other pieces of writing are long. But if you're saying a piece that's about 1 page is long-winded, I think you need to ask yourself why you're reading it. You need a genre that is suited to your reading requirements.

There was a certain trend in the comments that was interesting: sbrooks103x was probably not the first to comment on it but that comment drew responses. Equal blame - to put it simply - was at the crux of the "problem" some readers have with the piece.


I get the eye for an eye and a tooth for a tooth impulse that drives revenge - believe me that no fan of Dumas could possibly not have an appreciation of that. That said, my question(s) is (are( as follow(s):
A) Measurement of blame apportionment

What would be an appropriate apportionment of blame? 60/40? 80/20? 90.5/9.5? It reminds me of situations where things are screwed up and no one is doing anything to redeem the situation. Why? Everyone's too busy apportioning blame. Granted if there's a lawsuit and there's the issue of recompense, blame apportionment could make a difference.

B) Following from an accurate apportionment of blame, would we be mired next in an apportionment of revenge too? In other words, we'll have revenge sought and served that is proportionate to the blame/offence. Really? How do you measure? A pound of flesh for x amount of offence? Being a little too specific doesn't do too much for the outcome. You're liable to end up as Shylock, who for all his smarts is ultimately exploited and put at the mercy of his enemies.

If readers want a reminder of the consequences of an exacting revenge BTB, you might want to read BTB Forum which most critics unanimously agreed was way OTT. I'm not mad at readers, ok, maybe those who condemn before they even read what they are critising.

Frankly, I'm grateful there are readers who like the stories. Equally grateful for readers who take the time to tell me what could be improved. So watch for more posts, I'm hoping to get some out before the end of the year. Have fun and keep the feedback coming!

I'm off to stuff my face - yes, again LOL