Criticism
December 30th 2007
The hardest thing to do sometimes is to write something critical in a way that can't be offensive. Those who've contributed to us over the years can attest to the fact that I have a difficult time accomplishing that. I'm afraid the word "brutally honest" applies to everything I say, think and do. It's not that I mean to be mean, but I'm one of those people you should never ask for their opinion unless you're completely unafraid for the answer.
That being said, I'd like to point out that anyone who produces Star Trek fan fiction or non-fiction in any form should need to be aware that their work is going to be subject to criticism. Fans have very vocal opinions, both positive and negative, overly nice and extremely critical, if not outright cruel. Over the years, I've experienced all ranges of criticism, including some downright hateful letters and some really over-the-top praise. *shrug* I don't take either personally. Everyone has a right to their opinion and to express it. Everyone has a right to agree or disagree with such an opinion. But no one, and I mean no one, has the right to assert that someone, anyone at all, doesn't have a right to their opinion.
One of the things that Modern Trek fans often have the most trouble with is IDIC: Infinite Diversity in Infinite Combinations. We all have to respect the opinions of everyone, those that we believe or agree with, and just as importantly, those that we don't. I hated the Enterprise series, and I think that the folks responsible for it were reprehensible for their gross incompetence. You might have loved Enterprise, and think that it encapsulated all that is best in Star Trek. We're both entitled to our opinions, and as long as neither of us tries to stifle the other's opinion, it's all good.
Just remember that, okay?
Randy
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