Quality Vs Quantity

What are your thoughts?

When I read, I prefer quality writing. I don't get hung over the word count per chapter, just as long as the story is moving along or something interesting is happening between the characters. I mean, who wants to read a whole five paragraphs about a character's morning routine, where you learn nothing about them other than the fact that they wake up like everyone else. I think I know how to wash my face and brush my teeth, hmmm.

In the early years, I used to get self-conscious about my updates because readers wanted long chapters, but they also want good grammer, but then I also needed time to profread, but they want me to update faster, and blah blah blah. I was overwhelmed. In the last couple years, I write whatever flows, ignorning the word count, because as long the chapter feels complete to me, I can feel good about it. Currently, I enjoy writing shorter chapters for my newer fics (less than 3k). I update more frequently, and I feel like I have more time to work on my longer stories.

I created two polls, but it's not letting me add a second, so I'll post the links to both:

For readers: https://www.asianfanfics.com/poll/aff_view/134676

For writers: https://www.asianfanfics.com/poll/aff_view/134675

 

Poll

As a writer, what's your length preference when it comes to multi-chaptered stories?

Results

Comments

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maryshiin #1
Reading this, I had to go back and re-read the only comment I've ever written on your stories (TDoJ) to make sure I'm not one of those demanding silent readers, I sure hope that's not the case...
I usually don't comment because I'm extremely introvert (like to the point where doing anything that might lead to interaction with someone causes anxiety attacks), but I'd never thought about it from the point of view of the writer. I saw that others were engaging and thought that was enough... Might also be because back when I used to write (on a different platform), I didn't mind silent readers (although comments were always great to read). Now that I'm older, I understand how important it is to have feedback on your work. You're working hard to put a story out and to be faced with silence in return ... Sorry for being a silent reader all those years.

Also, I just logged in for the first time in months and saw that you posted an update ! I'll read it as soon as I have time (about to get to work right now...) ! And I'll make sure to leave a comment
Moonzy
#2
I felt the exact same way. I use to have a very vocal group of subbies which inspired and motivated me to continue to write. It then trickled down to silent readers and my vocal subbies (I'm your #1 ;D) going MIA. It really zapped the fun from writing and wanting to update every week.. At the same time, I dont appreciate demanding subbies; but Ive been out of the game so long; I'll take it for the moment LOL.
bummbleMin1004
#3
AN AUTHOR I LOVE GO MISSING I DO NOT KNOW WJERE SHE IS BUT SHE VERYS AD ABOUT SILENT READER TT
NeverNinaa
#4
I relate with this so much! I don't honestly care about attention as i tend to limit the access to my fics and allow only those i am comfortable with to read them! Beside active readers, i have a few voters and promoters who have other ways of showing support aside from commenting and that makes me super happy! But to be completely silent and literally NOBODY then suddenly show up in the comments and DMs demanding updates and stressing the hell out of me? That's big no. That's why i locked my wall and inbox to friends only as i surely have only active readers and authors i know/have interacted with on my friend list.
I love aff for allowing us to keep our privacy however we want :) so it's been years since i had someone silent rushing for updates or messaging me in the first place.
There are a lot of ways to protect yourself here! That's one of the reasons why i prefer aff over other writing websites hehe.
SkyeButterfly
#5
I agree with this! I don't really have a problem with "silent" readers these days, but it's a little annoying to have them continuously asking you for updates when that's all they've ever said to you... Some "readers" should learn to manage their expectations lol
bahiyyih #6
touch grass